What is Pancreatic Cancer? Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

Pancreatic cancer occurs when cells in your pancreas grow uncontrollably and form tumors. Your pancreas is a small organ behind your stomach that helps with digestion and blood sugar control. While this diagnosis can feel overwhelming, understanding the facts about pancreatic cancer can help you feel more prepared and informed about what lies ahead.

What is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer develops when normal cells in your pancreas change and multiply without control. The pancreas has two main jobs in your body. It makes digestive enzymes that break down food and produces hormones like insulin that regulate blood sugar.

Most pancreatic cancers start in the cells that line the ducts carrying digestive enzymes. These are called adenocarcinomas and make up about 95% of all pancreatic cancers. The remaining cases develop in the hormone-producing cells, known as neuroendocrine tumors.

This type of cancer is often called a "silent disease" because symptoms typically don't appear until the cancer has grown larger or spread. That's why many people don't realize they have it in the early stages when treatment might be most effective.

What are the Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer?

Early pancreatic cancer often doesn't cause noticeable symptoms, which makes it challenging to detect. When symptoms do appear, they can be subtle and easily mistaken for other common health issues.

Here are the most common symptoms you might notice:

• Persistent abdominal pain that may spread to your back
• Unexplained weight loss without trying to lose weight
• Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly when eating
• Yellowing of your skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Dark urine and pale or clay-colored stools
• New onset diabetes or worsening blood sugar control
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and weakness

Some people also experience less common symptoms like blood clots in their legs, depression, or a feeling of fullness in their upper abdomen. These symptoms can come and go or gradually worsen over time.

Remember that having these symptoms doesn't mean you definitely have pancreatic cancer. Many other conditions can cause similar signs, so it's important to talk with your doctor about any persistent changes you notice.

What are the Types of Pancreatic Cancer?

There are two main types of pancreatic cancer, and they behave quite differently from each other. Understanding which type you might have helps your medical team plan the best approach for your care.

Exocrine tumors make up the vast majority of pancreatic cancers. The most common is pancreatic adenocarcinoma, which starts in the cells lining the pancreatic ducts. These tumors tend to grow and spread more aggressively than other types.

Endocrine tumors, also called pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors or PNETs, are much less common. These develop in the hormone-producing cells of your pancreas. They often grow more slowly and may have a better outlook than exocrine tumors.

Within these main categories, there are several subtypes that your doctor might identify through testing. Each subtype can have slightly different characteristics and treatment approaches, which is why getting an accurate diagnosis is so important.

What Causes Pancreatic Cancer?

The exact cause of pancreatic cancer isn't fully understood, but researchers have identified several factors that can increase your risk. Most cases develop due to a combination of genetic changes and environmental influences over time.

Several factors may contribute to developing pancreatic cancer:

• Genetic mutations that can be inherited or develop during your lifetime
• Chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
• Long-term smoking, which doubles your risk
• Heavy alcohol use over many years
• Exposure to certain chemicals in the workplace
• Infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria
• Hepatitis B virus infection

Age plays a significant role, as most people diagnosed are over 65. Your risk also increases if you have diabetes, especially if it develops suddenly in adulthood, or if you're significantly overweight.

It's important to know that having risk factors doesn't mean you'll definitely develop pancreatic cancer. Many people with multiple risk factors never get the disease, while others with no known risk factors do.

When to See a Doctor for Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms?

You should contact your doctor if you experience persistent symptoms that concern you, especially if they last more than a few weeks. Early evaluation can help identify the cause and provide peace of mind or early treatment if needed.

Seek medical attention promptly if you notice yellowing of your skin or eyes, as this can indicate a blockage that needs immediate attention. Sudden onset of diabetes in adults over 50, especially combined with weight loss, also warrants a thorough evaluation.

Don't wait if you're experiencing severe abdominal pain that doesn't improve with rest or over-the-counter medications. Similarly, unexplained weight loss of more than 10 pounds without trying should prompt a visit to your healthcare provider.

Trust your instincts about your body. If something feels wrong or different, it's always better to have it checked out. Your doctor can help determine whether your symptoms need further investigation or if they're related to something less serious.

What are the Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer?

Understanding risk factors can help you make informed decisions about your health, though it's important to remember that having risk factors doesn't guarantee you'll develop cancer. Some risk factors you can control, while others you cannot.

Risk factors you cannot change include:

• Age (most common after 65, rare before 40)
• Gender (slightly more common in men)
• Race (higher rates in African Americans)
• Family history of pancreatic cancer
• Inherited genetic syndromes like BRCA2 mutations
• Chronic pancreatitis or hereditary pancreatitis

Risk factors you may be able to influence include smoking, which is the most significant modifiable risk factor. Heavy alcohol use, obesity, and workplace exposure to certain chemicals also increase your risk.

Having diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes that develops suddenly in adulthood, may also be connected to pancreatic cancer risk. Some studies suggest that people with diabetes have a higher chance of developing this cancer.

What are the Possible Complications of Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer can lead to various complications as it progresses, but understanding these possibilities can help you and your medical team prepare and manage them effectively. Not everyone will experience all of these complications.

Common complications may include:

• Bile duct blockage causing jaundice and itching
• Bowel obstruction affecting digestion and nutrition
• Blood clots in legs or lungs
• Diabetes from damage to insulin-producing cells
• Digestive problems and malnutrition
• Pain from tumor growth or nerve involvement
• Fluid buildup in the abdomen

Your healthcare team can help manage these complications through various treatments. For example, they might place a stent to open blocked bile ducts or prescribe enzymes to help with digestion.

Many of these complications can be treated or managed effectively, which is why staying in close contact with your medical team is so important. They can often prevent problems or catch them early when they're easier to address.

How is Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosing pancreatic cancer typically involves several steps and tests to get a complete picture of what's happening in your body. Your doctor will start by discussing your symptoms and medical history, then move on to physical examination and testing.

Initial tests often include blood work to check for tumor markers and liver function. Imaging studies like CT scans or MRI can show the size and location of any tumors. Your doctor might also order an ultrasound of your abdomen as a first step.

More specialized tests may include an endoscopic ultrasound, where a thin tube with a camera is passed through your mouth to get detailed images of your pancreas. This procedure can also collect tissue samples for biopsy.

A biopsy is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the exact type of cancer. This involves taking a small sample of tissue to examine under a microscope. The results help your medical team plan the most appropriate treatment approach.

What is the Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer?

Treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, your overall health, and your personal preferences. Your medical team will work with you to develop a plan that's right for your specific situation.

Surgery may be possible if the cancer hasn't spread beyond the pancreas. The most common procedure is called a Whipple procedure, which removes part of the pancreas along with nearby tissues. Recovery from this surgery typically takes several weeks.

Chemotherapy uses medications to kill cancer cells and is often recommended before or after surgery, or as the main treatment when surgery isn't possible. These drugs can be given through an IV or as pills you take at home.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells and may be combined with chemotherapy. Some people also benefit from newer treatments like immunotherapy or targeted therapy drugs that work in specific ways against cancer cells.

Your treatment plan might include a combination of these approaches. Your oncologist will explain the potential benefits and side effects of each option so you can make informed decisions about your care.

How to Take Home Treatment During Pancreatic Cancer?

Managing pancreatic cancer at home involves taking care of your overall well-being while following your medical team's recommendations. Small steps can make a big difference in how you feel day to day.

Focus on nutrition by eating small, frequent meals that are easy to digest. You might need to take pancreatic enzyme supplements with meals to help break down food properly. Stay hydrated and consider working with a nutritionist who understands cancer care.

Pain management is important for your quality of life. Take prescribed pain medications as directed and don't wait until pain becomes severe. Gentle activities like short walks can help maintain your strength and mood when you feel up to it.

Keep track of your symptoms and any side effects from treatment. This information helps your medical team adjust your care as needed. Don't hesitate to contact them with questions or concerns between appointments.

How Should You Prepare for Your Doctor Appointment?

Preparing for your appointment can help you make the most of your time with your healthcare provider. Start by writing down all your symptoms, including when they started and how they've changed over time.

Bring a complete list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you're taking. Include the doses and how often you take them. Also, gather any relevant medical records or test results from other doctors.

Prepare a list of questions you want to ask. Consider bringing a family member or friend who can help you remember the information discussed. It's also helpful to bring a notebook to write down important details.

Think about your family medical history, especially any relatives who have had cancer. This information can be important for your doctor's evaluation and treatment planning.

What's the Key Takeaway About Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention and comprehensive care. While it can be challenging to detect early, advances in treatment are providing new hope and options for people facing this diagnosis.

The most important thing to remember is that you're not alone in this journey. Your medical team is there to guide you through every step, from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. They can help manage symptoms and side effects while working to treat the cancer.

Stay connected with your healthcare providers, ask questions when you need clarification, and don't hesitate to seek support from family, friends, or support groups. Taking an active role in your care can help you feel more in control during this difficult time.