Pancreatic Cancer
Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
– Abdominal pain or discomfort
– Weight loss
– Loss of appetite
– Fatigue
– Nausea and vomiting
– Bloating or feeling full after eating
– Difficulty swallowing
– Vomiting blood or black tarry stools
Causes and Risk Factors of Pancreatic Cancer
– Genetics: A family history of pancreatic cancer or other cancers can increase the risk.
– Age: Pancreatic cancer is more common in people over 65.
– Sex: Men are more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than women.
– Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
– Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk.
– Diabetes: Having diabetes can increase the risk.
– Chronic pancreatitis: Having chronic pancreatitis can increase the risk.
Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer
Diagnosing pancreatic cancer involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests, including:
– Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans can help visualize the pancreas and detect any abnormalities.
– Endoscopic ultrasound: Endoscopic ultrasound involves using a flexible tube with a camera and light on the end to visualize the pancreas.
– Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a sample of tissue from the pancreas, which is then examined under a microscope for cancer cells.
Treatment Options for Pancreatic Cancer
Treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on the stage and extent of the disease. Treatment options include:
– Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for pancreatic cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue.
– Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves using medications to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used in combination with surgery or as a standalone treatment.
– Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy involves using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
Surgery for Pancreatic Cancer
Surgery is often the primary treatment for pancreatic cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. There are several types of surgery for pancreatic cancer, including:
– Whipple procedure: This involves removing the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, and a portion of the bile duct.
– Distal pancreatectomy: This involves removing the tail of the pancreas.
– Total pancreatectomy: This involves removing the entire pancreas.
Chemotherapy for Pancreatic Cancer
Chemotherapy involves using medications to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used in combination with surgery or as a standalone treatment. Common chemotherapy medications used to treat pancreatic cancer include:
– Gemcitabine
– Fluorouracil (5-FU)
– Cisplatin
– Paclitaxel
– Docetaxel
Radiation Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer
Radiation therapy involves using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy. There are several types of radiation therapy used to treat pancreatic cancer, including:
– External beam radiation therapy (EBRT)
– Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy)
– Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)
Prevention and Recovery
Preventing pancreatic cancer involves reducing the risk factors, such as:
– Quitting smoking
– Maintaining a healthy weight
– Eating a balanced diet
– Avoiding exposure to certain chemicals
– Getting regular check-ups
Recovering from pancreatic cancer treatment requires a comprehensive approach, including:
– Follow-up care with your doctor
– Maintaining a healthy diet
– Engaging in regular exercise
– Managing stress
– Getting enough sleep
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Tanmay Pareek
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, it’s essential to seek medical attention from a qualified specialist. Dr. Tanmay Pareek, a renowned GI Oncosurgeon, offers comprehensive care for pancreatic cancer patients. With his expertise and advanced treatment options, you can trust that you’re in good hands.
Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tanmay Pareek today. Take the first step towards recovery and a healthier tomorrow.
