What is Pancreas Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. The pancreas is a vital organ located in the abdomen, behind the stomach, that plays a key role in digestion and blood sugar regulation by producing enzymes and hormones, including insulin.
Types of Pancreatic Cancer
1. Exocrine Tumors (most common):
• These arise in the cells that produce digestive enzymes.
• The most common subtype is adenocarcinoma, originating in the ducts of the pancreas.
2. Endocrine Tumors (rare, also called neuroendocrine tumors or NETs):
• These develop in the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas.
• Examples include insulinomas, glucagonomas, and gastrinomas.
Risk Factors
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Diabetes
• Family history of pancreatic cancer or genetic syndromes (e.g., BRCA mutations)
• Age (most cases occur in people over 60)
• High-fat diets or exposure to certain chemicals.
Symptoms
Pancreatic cancer often goes undetected in its early stages due to vague symptoms. Common signs include:
• Abdominal or back pain
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Unintended weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dark urine and pale stools
• New-onset diabetes or worsening blood sugar control
Diagnosis
• Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI, or PET scans
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) with or without biopsy
• Blood tests: CA 19-9 tumor marker
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer:
• Surgery: Whipple procedure (for tumors in the head of the pancreas), distal pancreatectomy, or total pancreatectomy.
• Chemotherapy: Often used before or after surgery, or as a primary treatment if surgery isn’t possible.
• Radiation Therapy: Sometimes combined with chemotherapy.
• Targeted Therapy: For certain mutations (e.g., BRCA).
• Immunotherapy: For select cases like MSI-high tumors.
• Palliative Care: Focused on symptom relief and quality of life.
• Pancreatic cancer is challenging to treat due to its aggressive nature and late diagnosis, highlighting the importance of early detection and regular screenings for high-risk individuals.