Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer. It arises from the cells in the pancreas, a gland located in the abdomen that helps in regulating blood sugar levels and producing enzymes that aid in digestion.

Most of the time, pancreatic cancer does not show any symptoms until it has spread to other parts of the body, making it difficult to detect in its early stages. About 95% of pancreatic cancer cases are fatal, with a five-year survival rate of only 8.2%. This means that only eight out of 100 people with pancreatic cancer are expected to survive for five years after diagnosis.

However, it is not all doom and gloom. There are ways to improve the odds of survival in pancreatic cancer, by taking preventive measures, early detection, proper treatment, and lifestyle changes.

Here are some of the ways to boost survival in pancreatic cancer:.

1. Know the Risk Factors

Being aware of the risk factors that increase the chances of developing pancreatic cancer can help in its early detection and prevention. Here are some of the risk factors:.

Age: Pancreatic cancer is more common in people aged 60 or older.
Smoking: Cigarette smoking is the most common cause of pancreatic cancer.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
Family History: Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with pancreatic cancer increases the risk of developing it.
Chronic Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas that persists for a long time increases the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
Diabetes: People with Type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

2. Get Regular Screening Tests

Early detection of pancreatic cancer can significantly improve survival rates. People with a family history of pancreatic cancer or those with other risk factors should undergo regular screening tests to detect the cancer early.

Some of the screening tests include:.

Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the pancreas.
CT Scan: A type of X-ray that provides detailed images of the pancreas and other organs in the abdomen.
MRI: Uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create images of the pancreas and other organs.
Endoscopic Ultrasound: A procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera and ultrasound probe at the end to get images of the pancreas from inside the body.

3. Opt for Surgery, if Possible

Surgery is the most effective treatment for pancreatic cancer, especially if the tumor is still confined to the pancreas and has not spread to other parts of the body. Surgery can remove the cancer and prevent it from spreading.

There are different types of surgeries depending on the location and size of the tumor:.

Whipple Procedure: Removes the head of the pancreas, the first part of the small intestine, the gallbladder, and part of the stomach.
Distal Pancreatectomy: Removes the body and tail of the pancreas.
Total Pancreatectomy: Removes the entire pancreas, as well as the gallbladder, spleen, part of the small intestine, and part of the stomach.

4. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is often used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy to treat pancreatic cancer. High-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation are used to destroy cancer cells.

Radiation therapy can be external, where a machine outside the body delivers radiation, or internal, where a radioactive substance is placed near the cancer cells.

5. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be given before or after surgery, or in combination with radiation therapy.

Chemotherapy can also be used to control the symptoms of pancreatic cancer, to slow down the progression of the cancer, and to improve the quality of life of the patient. There are different types of chemotherapy drugs, and the choice of drug depends on the stage and type of pancreatic cancer.

6. Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments for pancreatic cancer. Participating in clinical trials can give patients access to new treatments and therapies that are not yet available to the general public.

Clinical trials can also help advance medical knowledge and improve treatment options for pancreatic cancer.

7. Follow a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet can help improve survival in pancreatic cancer by providing the necessary nutrients to the body to fight the cancer and maintain overall health.

A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help in reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, and promoting overall health. Some of the foods that are good for pancreatic cancer patients include:.

Green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale
Berries like blueberries and blackberries
Foods high in antioxidants like tomatoes, beans, and nuts
Foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, tuna, and walnuts.

8. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help improve survival in pancreatic cancer by reducing the risk of obesity, boosting the immune system, and improving overall health.

Exercise can also help in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, which are common in cancer patients. Some of the exercises that are good for pancreatic cancer patients include:.

Walking
Swimming
Yoga
Pilates
Cycling

9. Manage Stress

Stress can have a negative impact on the immune system and overall health, making it important to manage stress in pancreatic cancer patients. Some of the ways to manage stress include:.

Meditation
Breathing exercises
Yoga
Tai Chi
Massage therapy
Counseling

10. Seek Support and Get Involved

Dealing with pancreatic cancer can be overwhelming, but it is important to seek support from family, friends, and support groups.

Getting involved in support groups and advocacy organizations can also help in raising awareness about pancreatic cancer and improving treatment options for patients.

Conclusion

Pancreatic cancer is a complex disease that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment and management.

While the odds of survival in pancreatic cancer are not good, there are ways to improve the chances of survival by taking preventive measures, undergoing regular screening tests, and adopting a healthy lifestyle. It is important to work closely with a healthcare team that specializes in pancreatic cancer to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.