Early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer significantly increases treatment success and survival rate. Therefore, it is vital for individuals at risk to have regular health checks and to consult a doctor immediately when symptoms occur. Awareness and early intervention play a critical role in reducing the fatal effects of pancreatic cancer.
What is pancreatic cancer?
The pancreas is an organ located in the abdominal area, behind the stomach, that produces digestive enzymes and hormones (for example, insulin).
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the pancreas, an important organ of the digestive system. Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed in the late stages, which can limit treatment options. Factors that increase the risk of pancreatic cancer include older age, family history of pancreatic cancer, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity and chronic pancreatitis.
What are the symptoms of pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages, which can make diagnosis difficult. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer are as follows:
- Stomach ache
- Jaundice
- Darkening of urine color
- light colored stool
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue and weakness
- Swelling
- Diabetes
How is pancreatic cancer treated?
Diagnosis is usually made by imaging techniques (CT, MRI, EUS), biopsy and blood tests. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy, depending on the stage of the cancer.
Surgery is usually performed to treat pancreatic cancer. In cases where surgery is required, whipple surgery, distal pancreatectomy or total pancreatectomy surgery can be performed. In Whiplle surgery, the head of the pancreas, part of the duodenum, and the gallbladder are removed. In the distal pancreatectomy procedure, the tail and body of the pancreas are removed. In total pancreatectomy, the entire pancreas is removed. After surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy can be applied.