PANCREATIC CANCER

Why does pancreatic cancer occur?

Exact cause is not always known, but risk factors include:

• Smoking 🚬

• Long-standing pancreatitis

• Diabetes (especially new-onset in older age)

• Family history

• Obesity and unhealthy diet

 

Common symptoms

Symptoms usually appear late, which is why early detection is difficult.

• Yellow eyes and skin (jaundice)

• Dark urine, pale stools

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

• Upper abdominal pain (may go to the back)

• Tiredness

• New or worsening diabetes

⚠ Painless jaundice in an older person is a warning sign.

Why is pancreatic cancer dangerous?

• It spreads early to nearby organs

• Often diagnosed at an advanced stage

• Can block bile duct causing jaundice

• Affects digestion and nutrition

How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?

• Ultrasound

• CT scan / MRI

• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)

• Blood tests (tumor markers)

• Biopsy to confirm cancer

How is pancreatic cancer treated?

Treatment depends on stage of cancer and patient’s condition.

1️⃣ Surgery 

✔ Best chance of cure
✔ Tumor is completely removed

Common surgery:

• Whipple’s operation (for head of pancreas cancer)

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2️⃣ Chemotherapy

• Used after surgery

• Used when surgery is not possible

• Helps slow disease and reduce symptoms

3️⃣ Radiotherapy

• Sometimes used along with chemotherapy

• Helps control pain or tumor growth

4️⃣ Palliative (supportive) treatment

When cure is not possible:

• Pain control

• Bile duct stenting for jaundice

• Nutritional support

• Improving comfort and quality of life

Life expectancy and outlook

• Outcome depends on stage at diagnosis

• Early detection → better survival

• Advanced disease → focus on comfort and symptom control

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“This cancer grows quietly and is often found late. If detected early, surgery gives the best chance. Otherwise, treatment focuses on controlling the disease and improving comfort.”

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Can pancreatic cancer be prevented?

You can reduce risk by:

• Stopping smoking

• Controlling diabetes

• Treating chronic pancreatitis

• Maintaining healthy weight

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To Summarise: 

Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease that often shows symptoms late; early detection offers the best chance of cure, while advanced cases need supportive care.