Pancreatic Cancer

What is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the pancreas, a gland situated behind the stomach. This vital organ performs two key functions: producing hormones that regulate blood sugar and creating digestive enzymes that help break down food. When abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the pancreas, it can lead to pancreatic cancer, which often progresses with minimal early symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer may vary depending on the stage and location of the tumor. Common signs include:

• Fatigue and abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dark urine and pale stools
• New-onset diabetes or worsening existing diabetes

Types of Pancreatic Cancer:

Pancreatic cancer occurs in several forms, with pancreatic adenocarcinoma being the most common type (over 90% of cases). In addition to adenocarcinoma, other less common types include:

• 1. Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
• 2. Pancreatic Acinar cell Carcinoma
• 3. Neuroendocrine Tumors

Causes and Risk Factor

While the exact cause is often unknown, several factors can increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer:

• Smoking
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Diabetes & Obesity
• Family history of pancreatic cancer
• Genetic mutations

Treatment options:

Treatment for pancreatic cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The specific treatment recommended will depend on the stage of the cancer, the type of cancer and the overall health of the patient.

• Surgery: Surgery is often recommended if the tumor is localized and operable. Common procedures include the Whipple procedure, distal pancreatectomy or total pancreatectomy.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation is used to shrink or destroy cancer cells, often combined with chemotherapy before or after surgery.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, especially for advanced stages.
• Targeted Therapy: Targeted drugs block specific pathways or proteins that help cancer cells grow. This treatment is typically used for tumors with identifiable genetic mutations.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It is mainly considered for certain patients with specific biomarkers or genetic profiles.
• Palliative Care: Palliative treatments focus on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, especially in advanced or inoperable cases.

Gem Cancer Centre takes pride as Prof C Palanivelu , the Chairman of Gem Hospital & Gem Cancer Centre was the first surgeon in the world to perform Laparoscopic Whipples operation for cancer pacers , considered to be one of the most difficult surgeries in the abdomen.He and his team have performed more than 250 laparoscopic/Robotic Whippies surgeries with the best outcomes