Pancreatic Cancer
What is Pancreatic Cancer ?
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the pancreas. The pancreas lies behind the lower part of the stomach. It makes enzymes that help digest food and hormones that help manage blood sugar.
The most common type of pancreatic cancer is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. This type begins in the cells that line the ducts that carry digestive enzymes out of the pancreas. Pancreatic cancer is rarely found at its early stages when the chance of curing it is greatest. This is because it often doesn’t cause symptoms until after it has spread to other organs. Your health care team considers the extent of your pancreatic cancer when creating your treatment plan. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a mix of these.
Symptoms
- Belly pain that spreads to the sides or back
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Jaundice
- Light-colored or floating stools
- Dark-colored urine
- Itching
- New diagnosis of diabetes
- Pain and swelling in an arm or leg
- Tiredness or weakness
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
Cause
It’s not clear what causes pancreatic cancer. Doctors have found some factors that might raise the risk of this type of cancer. These include smoking and having a family history of pancreatic cancer.
Risk Factors
Factors that might raise the risk of pancreatic cancer include Smoking. Type 2 diabetes. Chronic inflammation of the pancreas, called pancreatitis. Family history of DNA changes that can increase cancer risk. These include changes in the BRCA2 gene, Lynch syndrome and familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome. Family history of pancreatic cancer. Obesity. Older age. Most people with pancreatic cancer are over 65. Drinking a lot of alcohol.
When to see a Doctor
Make an appointment with a health care professional if you have symptoms that worry you.