Pancreatic Cancer Know the Warning Signs!

What do, Justice Ruth Ginsberg, Activist John Lewis, and TV personality and game show host, Alex Trebek have in common? All three of these prominent people died this year from pancreatic cancer.

November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and organizations such as the American Cancer Society and the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network are working hard to raise awareness regarding this devastating disease. According to the American Cancer Society, Pancreatic Cancer accounts for 3% of all cancers in the U.S. and accounts for 7% of all cancer deaths. More than 90% of patients die within 5 years of learning they have pancreatic cancer and this number will rise to 97% if the cancer spreads to other parts of the body.

Who is most affected by pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer affects older people, usually over 65 and there are more men than women affected. Risk factors that can predispose someone to develop pancreatic cancer include smoking, genetics, obesity, diabetes, alcohol use, chronic pancreatitis, and workplace chemical exposure.

Why is pancreatic cancer so deadly?

What makes pancreatic cancer so deadly is that it can go without symptoms for a while before a person realizes they are sick and seek medical attention. The early symptoms, which can include stomach pain and loss of appetite, are often vague and can be mistaken or dismissed as a less serious illness. The pancreas is also hidden behind other organs such as the stomach, small intestines, and liver which can make feeling a lump or a lesion difficult.

How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed and treated?

The diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is often made by imaging tests such as endoscopic ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Blood work may be also done for specific blood proteins that are tumor markers, shed by pancreatic cells. This is helpful in determining the type of chemotherapy that is chosen to treat the patient’s specific cancer. The type of treatment chosen depends upon the stage and location of the cancer. Once this has been determined by the physician from the diagnostic workup, all treatment options can be reviewed with the patient. Treatment may involve surgery, such as the Whipple Procedure, which is an extensive surgery that involves removal of the head of the pancreas and the first part of the small intestine. Chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are other treatment options.

What can be done to prevent pancreatic cancer?

According to the American Cancer Society, a person may reduce their risk of getting pancreatic cancer by eliminating some of the risk factors and by following a healthy lifestyle plan. Here are the tips they list for reducing pancreatic cancer:

  • Don’t smoke

  • Avoid alcohol

  • Watch your weight

  • Stay active and exercise regularly

  • Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are antioxidants

  • Limit exposures to chemicals that may cause cancers, such as pesticides

  • Take Vitamin D daily

  • Eat garlic which can help decrease the growth of cancer cells

If you or a family member have recently been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and have questions about the diagnosis or how to move forward, feel free to give us a call at Healthlink Advocates. We are a team of patient advocates and health and wellness coaches who can answer your questions about this illness and assist you with navigating the healthcare system.

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