Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Stages & Latest Treatment

Pancreatic cancer isn’t one of the most common cancers, but it causes around 1 in 10 cancer-related deaths. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer often doesn’t show symptoms in the early stages, and by the time it’s diagnosed, it may already be quite advanced. 

So, if you’re experiencing constant stomach discomfort, losing weight without trying, or feeling unusually tired lately, you can consult with our Pancreatic Cancer Specialist in Kolkata at CMRI Hospital. These symptoms might seem small at first, but sometimes they can point to something more serious, like pancreatic cancer.

In this blog, we’ll explain everything about pancreatic cancer, from what it is to the available treatment options. The more you understand about this condition, the more confident you’ll feel in making the right decision for your treatment.

What is pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of the pancreas, a small but vital organ located behind the stomach. The pancreas helps your body digest food and control blood sugar levels. When cancer cells start growing in this organ, they can affect these essential functions.

Most pancreatic cancers start in the ducts of the pancreas (called adenocarcinomas). It’s known to grow quietly at first, which is why spotting it early is so important.

What are the symptoms of pancreatic cancer?

Symptoms often appear only when the cancer has grown, but some early signs to watch for include:

• Pain in the upper belly or back
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Fatigue or feeling weak all the time
• Dark urine or pale stools
• Indigestion or nausea

These symptoms can also be caused by many other conditions, but if they last more than a few weeks, it’s worth seeing your doctor.

What causes pancreatic cancer?

The exact cause isn’t always known, but there are several factors that may increase your risk:

• Smoking
• Long-term diabetes
• Chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• A family history of pancreatic cancer
• Obesity
• Older age (most cases occur in people over 60)

Sometimes, pancreatic cancer can also be linked to inherited gene changes, though this is less common.

Stages of Pancreatic Cancer

Like other cancers, pancreatic cancer is grouped into stages depending on how far it has spread:

• Stage 1: Cancer is small and limited to the pancreas
• Stage 2: Cancer may have spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes
• Stage 3: Cancer has spread to nearby blood vessels or major organs
• Stage 4: Cancer has spread to distant parts of the body (like the liver or lungs)

Knowing the stage helps doctors decide the best treatment plan.

How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed early?

Early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. If symptoms raise suspicion, your doctor may recommend:

• Blood tests: To check for tumour markers like CA 19-9, which may be elevated in pancreatic cancer.
• Imaging scans: Such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to get detailed images of the pancreas and surrounding organs.
• Endoscopy: A procedure where a thin, flexible tube is passed down the throat to view the pancreas or take a biopsy for further testing.
• Biopsy: A small tissue sample may be taken from the pancreas to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

If you have a family history of pancreatic cancer or are at high risk, talk to your doctor about regular check-ups or screening tests.

Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer

Treatment depends on the stage and your overall health. Some of the main options include:

• Surgery: If the cancer hasn’t spread too far, doctors may try to remove the tumour. The most common surgery is the Whipple procedure, which removes part of the pancreas and surrounding tissue.
• Chemotherapy: This uses medicine to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It may be given before surgery (to shrink the tumour), after surgery (to prevent recurrence), or on its own in advanced cases.
• Radiotherapy: High-energy rays target cancer cells. It’s sometimes used with chemotherapy or when surgery isn’t possible.
• Targeted Therapy: These newer medicines focus on specific changes in cancer cells. They may cause fewer side effects than chemotherapy and are used when certain genetic mutations are found.
• Immunotherapy: This helps the body’s own immune system fight cancer. It’s still being studied for pancreatic cancer but may benefit some people, especially those with certain genetic markers.
• Palliative/Supportive Care: When a cure isn’t possible, supportive care helps manage symptoms like pain, jaundice, and digestion problems. This care can improve quality of life even in advanced stages.

Final Thoughts

Pancreatic cancer is a serious health condition, but with early diagnosis and the right treatments, it can be managed effectively. If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms or has been diagnosed, don’t wait.

Consult a specialist to understand the stages, diagnosis, and treatment options. Every step you take towards understanding your condition helps you feel more confident and less alone.

FAQs

Is pancreatic cancer curable?

Pancreatic cancer is difficult to cure, especially in later stages, but treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Can ultrasound detect pancreatic cancer?

Ultrasound can sometimes detect pancreatic cancer, but it may not always provide clear results, especially in the early stages.

Can smoking cause pancreatic cancer?

Yes, smoking is a major risk factor and significantly increases the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer.

Can you detect pancreatic cancer with a blood test?

While blood tests can help detect certain markers related to pancreatic cancer, they are not reliable for early diagnosis on their own.

How does pancreatic cancer affect the body?

Pancreatic cancer can cause symptoms like weight loss, jaundice, stomach pain, and digestive issues as it disrupts the function of the pancreas.