Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located behind your stomach. The pancreas plays an important role in digestion and blood sugar regulation by producing enzymes and hormones like insulin. When cells in the pancreas grow out of control, they can form a tumor, leading to pancreatic cancer.

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What Makes Pancreatic Cancer So Challenging?

Pancreatic cancer is notoriously hard to detect in its early stages. The pancreas is deep within your body, so tumors usually go unnoticed until they start affecting other organs or cause symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of your skin and eyes), weight loss, or abdominal pain. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may have already advanced and become harder to treat. This is one of the reasons why pancreatic cancer has a lower survival rate compared to many other cancers.

Types of Pancreatic Cancer

There are two main types of pancreatic cancer:

• Exocrine Tumors – These are the most common, with adenocarcinoma being the primary subtype. These start in the cells that line the ducts of your pancreas and are responsible in producing your digestive enzymes.
• Endocrine Tumors – Also called neuroendocrine tumors, these are less common and start in the hormone-producing cells. Although rare, endocrine tumors may have a slightly better prognosis.

Risk Factors

While the exact cause of pancreatic cancer isn’t always clear, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing it:

• Age – Most cases occur in people over 60.
• Smoking – Smokers are twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer.
• Family history – A family history of pancreatic cancer or genetic mutations (like BRCA2) can raise the risk.
• Diabetes – Some studies suggest a link between type 2 diabetes and pancreatic cancer, though more research is needed to back this theory up.
• Chronic pancreatitis – Long-term inflammation of the pancreas may contribute to higher risk.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Symptoms are subtle at first but may include:

• Abdominal or back pain – Persistent pain can sometimes signal pancreatic cancer.
• Weight loss – Sudden, unexplained weight loss could be a warning sign.
• Jaundice – Yellowing of your skin and eyes can happen if a tumor blocks your bile duct.
• Digestive issues – Nausea, vomiting, or a lack of appetite are also possible signs.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

If pancreatic cancer is suspected, doctors may use imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRIs, and sometimes a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the cancer’s stage and may involve:

• Surgery – For early-stage cancer, surgery like the Whipple procedure (removal of part of the pancreas) may be possible.
• Radiation and chemotherapy – Often used together to shrink tumors and kill your cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy and immunotherapy – These therapies focus on specific cancer cell types or stimulate your body’s immune response to attack cancer.

If you or someone you know is affected by pancreatic cancer, seeking support from specialists and connecting with support groups can make a significant difference in managing your condition. The field of cancer treatment is evolving, and while pancreatic cancer remains challenging, strides in medical research are gradually improving the outlook.

If you or your loved one is having problems with your pancreas, have them/yourself checked immediately. You can schedule an appointment with Doral Health and Wellness Gastroenterology Center’s best gastroenterologists in Brooklyn. If you are looking for treatments, you can also talk to our specialists and inquire with them. To schedule an appointment, please visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212 or call 1-718-367-2555.