Pancreatic Cancer: A Silent but Serious Disease
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive type of cancer that begins in the pancreas, an organ responsible for producing digestive enzymes and insulin. It is often called a "silent killer" because symptoms usually appear in the later stages when the disease has already spread.
Common symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), unexplained weight loss, abdominal or back pain, loss of appetite, digestive issues, and new-onset diabetes. Due to its late detection, pancreatic cancer is challenging to treat, making early diagnosis critical for better outcomes.
Diagnosis involves imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, and endoscopic ultrasounds, along with blood tests to detect tumor markers such as CA 19-9. Treatment options depend on the stage of the disease and may include surgery (such as the Whipple procedure), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted or immunotherapy.
While pancreatic cancer has a lower survival rate than many other cancers, advancements in treatment and clinical trials offer hope for improved therapies. Leading a healthy lifestyle, managing risk factors like smoking and obesity, and participating in routine check-ups can help reduce the risk and support early detection efforts.