Pancreatic cancer is one of the most dangerous types that is difficult to detect early, and all its symptoms are hidden and do not appear clearly until the condition progresses. In addition, this type arises when pancreatic cells grow abnormally and take over the entire pancreas, and this affects the organ’s ability to perform all its vital functions, such as regulating the level of sugar in the blood and also secreting digestive enzymes. In this article, we will explain to you today all the details related to this topic.

What is pancreatic cancer?

The pancreas is a rectangular organ in the body located behind the lower part of the stomach. It is located between the spine and the stomach. Its primary function is to produce juices that aid in the digestion process and increase the secretion of insulin and many other hormones that help and enable the body to control blood sugar. In addition, some pancreatic tumors are benign but are unable to control other parts of the body. The incidence of pancreatic cancer in men is greater than in women. This disease usually affects people between 65 and 74 years old and spreads in most parts of the body.

Causes of pancreatic cancer

There are many causes that lead to pancreatic cancer These reasons are: التالي:

• The presence of a history of illness in the family, which increases the risk of contracting this disease.
• Smoking is one of the most important causes of disease, because many studies have shown that smokers are the most susceptible to this disease.
• Eat a lot of fried and fatty foods, as well as processed meat, and do not eat fruits and vegetables that are important for the body.
• Weight gain is one of the risk factors, as it affects insulin secretion, causes disturbances in body functions, and increases the incidence of pancreatic cancer.
• Diabetes increases the risk of infection, and exposure to harmful chemicals has an important effect on pancreatic cells.
• The continued presence of inflammation in the pancreas leads to cell damage and their transformation into cancerous cells.

اقرأ ايضاً: معًا نحو الوقاية من السرطان وفقًا للتوصيات الطبية الحديثة

What are the types of pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer has many types Which is The following:

• Ductal adenocarcinoma is one of the most common types and represents more than 90% of cases. It arises within the ducts that transport digestive enzymes from inside the pancreas to the intestine. It is discovered in advanced stages because it is delayed in appearance and its most important symptoms include weight loss and pain in the upper abdomen.
• Neuroendocrine cancers are a type of pancreatic cancer that grow from cells produced by hormones in the pancreas.
• Other types include hepato-biliary adenocarcinoma, which is a very rare type.

 Symptoms of pancreatic cancer

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer do not appear early, but appear as soon as the tumor begins to affect other organs of the digestive system Pancreatic symptoms include: the following :

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes.
• Light colored stool. 
• The urine is dark.
• There is itching in the skin.
• Always feeling tired and exhausted. 
• There is pain in the upper abdomen.
• The occurrence of blood clots.
• Significant weight loss.
• Feeling nauseous.
• Anorexia.
• Notice gas and bloating.
• Noticing a change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, as well as a feeling that the stomach does not empty even after defecation.
• Feeling pain in the middle area of ​​the back.

إقراء إيضا عن :  Oncology Center in Al-Moosa Health

Pancreatic cancer treatment 

Treating pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult medical procedures due to the nature of the disease and the speed of its spread. The treatment plan depends on the stage of the disease, the patient’s condition, and the most prominent treatment options. Below are:

• العلاج الجراحي It is appropriate when the disease is limited and can be removed.
• Radiotherapy It is used to destroy cancer cells to prevent their growth. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays that are placed towards the site of the tumor. It can be used alone or after surgery to reduce the possibility of the cancer returning.
• Chemotherapy It focuses on the use of intravenous injections that kill all cancer cells. In some cases, chemotherapy is combined with radiation to increase their effectiveness, and then the doctor determines the number of doses and the type of medication according to the patient’s condition.
•  العلاج الموجه It is one of the latest methods of treating pancreatic cancer that precisely targets cancer cells without affecting the presence of healthy cells.
• Immunotherapy It aims to stimulate the immune system in order to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. In this treatment, specific types of medications are used depending on the body’s response and the nature of the tumor.

The most important tips for preventing pancreatic cancer

Below we explain to you the most important tips for preventing pancreatic cancer in order to maintain the health of the pancreas and reduce the chances of infection These tips are:

• Follow a balanced, healthy diet, eat an appropriate amount of vegetables, fruits, and proteins, and avoid fats and processed meat.
• In addition, you must quit smoking because it is one of the most prominent things that cause this type of cancer.
• Obesity is one of the most important factors that lead to the disease. It is necessary to maintain weight, perform regular physical activities, and exercise.
• Hence, blood sugar levels must be monitored because diabetics are more susceptible to cancer.
• Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals such as paints and pesticides because they cause tumors.
• Always drink enough water because Water It expels toxins from the body and improves liver and pancreas functions.
• Conduct periodic examinations, especially for those who have a hereditary history of this disease.

The most frequently asked questions about pancreatic cancer 

What is the cure rate for pancreatic cancer?

The cure rate for pancreatic cancer depends on the stage of the disease when it is diagnosed. The earlier the disease is discovered, the higher the chance of treatment. As for the advanced stages of the disease, treatment involves properly controlling the symptoms of the disease.

How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?

Pancreatic cancer is diagnosed through a series of examinations that include CT or MRI scans, as well as blood tests, and also taking a dose of tissue to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Can pancreatic cancer come back after treatment?

Yes, pancreatic cancer can return after a period of treatment, so it is important and necessary to conduct periodic follow-up and regular examinations to early detect any signs of its return.

Here we have reached the end of our article in which we talked about pancreatic cancer, its types and causes, as well as ways to prevent it. We can now say that it is one of the most difficult and dangerous types of cancer, and awareness of the factors and symptoms that cause it is considered an essential step towards prevention and treatment. You must go to the doctor on an ongoing basis to do the necessary tests. You can seek help from us and obtain our services through the hospital website. Health Moussa Do not hesitate to contact us.

Learn about:  Emergency and Accident Department at Al Mousa Hospital