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Understanding of Pancreatic Cancer

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It is important for patients to understand pancreatic cancer. This cancer is relatively rare, but it is often deadly.

In this informative Blog Post, We will Delve into the fundamentals of pancreatic Cancer, Shedding light On its Symptoms and Available Treatment choices.

Empowering Patients with this knowledge, Dr. Aditya Kulkarni at Oasis Clinic, a Renowned Abdominal Specialist in Pune, Stands Ready to Provide expert Guidance for Informed Decisions in their healthcare journey.

 Overview

Pancreatic cancer begins in the pancreas, a gland located behind the stomach that helps digest food. The most common type of pancreatic cancer is called adenocarcinoma, which starts in the cells that line the pancreatic ducts.

Although pancreatic cancer is rare, it’s one of the deadliest cancers because there are often no warning signs until the disease is advanced. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. For some people with pancreatic cancer, a liver transplant may be an option.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

The early stages of pancreatic cancer often do not cause any symptoms. As the disease progresses, it may cause the following:

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
  • Itchy skin
  • Dark urine
  • Light-colored stools
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pain in the upper abdomen or back

These symptoms may be caused by other conditions, so it’s important to see a doctor if you experience any of them

Symptoms of Pancreas cancer

When to see a Doctor / Specialist

Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease that can be difficult to detect in its early stages. If you experience sudden and severe weight loss, abdominal pain that radiates to your back, jaundice, or nausea and vomiting, it’s important to see a doctor right away.

Pancreatic cancer is notoriously aggressive, and early detection is critical. If you have any reason to suspect you may have pancreatic cancer, don’t delay in seeking medical attention. The sooner you see a doctor, the better your chances are of beating this disease.

Early detection is critical for successful treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Also, read more about, What are the treatment options for Pancreatic cancer

Is Pancreatic Cancer Curable?

The short answer to this question is that, Yes, pancreatic cancer is curable, But in most cases, by the time the cancer is diagnosed, it has already spread too far to be effectively treated.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. In some cases, pancreatic cancer may be caught in its early stages, before it has had a chance to spread. When this happens, surgery may be an option.

Also, pancreatic cancer is difficult to treat. Part of the problem is that the pancreas is located deep within the abdomen, making it hard to reach with surgery or other treatments. Additionally, the pancreas is surrounded by vital organs like the stomach and intestines, which makes surgery even more complicated and risky.

Click to know more in detail about, Is Pancreatic cancer Curable?

What Causes Pancreatic Cancer

The exact cause of pancreatic cancer is unknown, but there are several risk factors that may increase your chance of developing the disease. These include:

  • Cigarette smoking –This is the most important risk factor for pancreatic cancer
  • Age –Pancreatic cancer is more common in people over the age of 60
  • Family history –Having a family member with pancreatic cancer or other inherited cancer syndromes increases your risk
  • Diabetes –People with diabetes are more likely to develop pancreatic cancer
  • Obesity –Being obese may increase your risk of pancreatic cancer
  • Chronic Inflammation of the Pancreas –This condition, called pancreatitis, can increase your risk of pancreatic cancer
  • Exposure to Certain Chemicals People who are exposed to certain industrial chemicals, such as pesticides and dyes, may have a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Dr. Aditya Kulkarni

MS, DNB, FRCS, MCh (Surgical Gastroenterology & GI Oncology)

Dr. Aditya Kulkarni is a Consultant of Laparoscopic and Robotic Gastrointestinal, Hepato-biliary-pancreatic, and Cancer Surgeon at the Renowned Oasis Surgery Clinic Pune.

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