Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach and produces enzymes that help with digestion and hormones that help regulate blood sugar levels.

Pancreatic cancer accounts for approximately 3% of all cancers in the United States, but it is responsible for about 7% of cancer deaths. The incidence of pancreatic cancer increases with age, and it is more common in men than women. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Causes of Pancreatic Cancer

Although the exact causes of pancreatic cancer are unknown, there are several known risk factors for the disease. These risk factors include:.

Age

As mentioned earlier, the incidence of pancreatic cancer increases with age. Most cases of pancreatic cancer occur in people over the age of 50.

Smoking

Smoking is the most significant risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Smokers are two to three times more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than non-smokers.

The risk of pancreatic cancer increases with the number of cigarettes smoked per day and the number of years smoked.

Obesity

Obesity is also a risk factor for pancreatic cancer. People who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer than people who are at a healthy weight.

Family history

A history of pancreatic cancer in a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) increases a person’s risk of developing the disease.

Genetic syndromes such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC) and Lynch syndrome also increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

The symptoms of pancreatic cancer can be vague and nonspecific, making it difficult to diagnose in its early stages. However, as the cancer grows and spreads, symptoms may become more apparent. Some of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer include:.

Abdominal pain

Pain in the abdomen or back is a common symptom of pancreatic cancer. The pain may be severe and may worsen after eating or lying down.

Weight loss

Unintentional weight loss is a common symptom of pancreatic cancer. This is because the cancer can interfere with the body’s ability to digest food properly.

Jaudice

Jaudice is a condition in which the skin and whites of the eyes become yellow. This is caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the blood, which can occur when the cancer blocks the bile ducts.

Nausea and vomiting

People with pancreatic cancer may experience nausea and vomiting, especially after eating.

New-onset diabetes

New-onset diabetes can be a symptom of pancreatic cancer. This is because the cancer can interfere with the pancreas’ ability to produce insulin.

Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer

The treatment of pancreatic cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the overall health of the patient. Treatment options include:.

Surgery

Surgery is the only treatment that can potentially cure pancreatic cancer. Surgery may involve removing the tumor, part of the pancreas, or the entire pancreas.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is often used in addition to surgery to help kill any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy may also be used as the primary treatment for pancreatic cancer that has spread beyond the pancreas.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery, or as the primary treatment for pancreatic cancer that cannot be removed with surgery.

Palliative care

Palliative care is a type of care that focuses on improving quality of life for people with serious illnesses such as pancreatic cancer.

Palliative care may involve managing symptoms such as pain and nausea, providing emotional support, and helping with end-of-life planning.

Conclusion

Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease that affects thousands of people each year. Although the causes of pancreatic cancer are not fully understood, there are several known risk factors for the disease.

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can be vague and nonspecific, making it difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Treatment options for pancreatic cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and palliative care.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider as soon as possible to determine the cause of your symptoms.