Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors and Treatment Methods
Pancreatic cancer, is a disease that usually develops insidiously and does not show symptoms in the early stages. The pancreas is an important organ that produces digestive enzymes and hormones. Therefore, when diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, it can have serious effects on the general health of patients. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, risk factors and treatment methods of pancreatic cancer in detail.
Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms
Pancreatic cancer does not show any symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult to diagnose. However, as the disease progresses, the following symptoms may appear:
- Abdominal or back pain: Pain, especially felt behind the waist, is one of the early symptoms of pancreatic cancer.
- Unexplained weight loss: Patients may experience weight loss due to loss of appetite and digestive problems.
- Anorexia: A decrease in the desire to eat may indicate that the disease is progressing.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes may occur as a result of obstruction of the bile ducts.
- digestive problems: Nausea, vomiting, and gas may be symptoms of pancreatic cancer.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can occur because the pancreas is affecting insulin production.
- Darkening of urine and change in stool color: Dark urine and whitish stool color may be associated with pancreatic cancer.
Risk factors
There are certain risk factors for pancreatic cancer that may increase your chances of developing the disease:
- Age: The risk of pancreatic cancer increases in individuals aged 50 and over.
- Family History of Pancreatic Cancer: The risk is higher in people with a family history of pancreatic cancer.
- Cigarette Consumption: The risk of pancreatic cancer increases significantly in individuals who smoke.
- Obesity: Excess weight is a significant risk factor for the development of pancreatic cancer.
- Diabetes: Long-term diabetes increases the risk of pancreatic cancer.
- Chronic Pancreatitis: Long-term pancreatitis can trigger the development of this cancer.
- Unhealthy Diet and Low Physical Activity: Low fiber intake and excessive fat and sugar consumption are also risk factors.
Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis
Several different methods are used to diagnose pancreatic cancer. These methods are critical for detecting and staging the disease:
- Blood Tests: Blood tests can help detect tumor markers.
- Display Methods: The condition of the pancreas is examined using methods such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance (MRI).
- Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS): It is used for detailed imaging and biopsy of the pancreas.
Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Methods
Pancreatic cancer treatment varies depending on the stage of the disease. Treatment methods include:
- Whipple Surgery: It is a surgical method used to remove tumors located at the head of the pancreas. This method is preferred when the disease is in the early stages and the cancer has not spread to other organs.
- Chemotherapy: It is a drug treatment used to destroy cancer cells. It can usually be applied before or after surgery.
- Radiotherapy: It is a treatment method that uses high-energy rays to target cancer cells. It is usually applied together with other treatment methods.
- Targeted Therapies: It is the use of special drugs that prevent the growth of cancer cells.
The Importance of Nutrition in the Fight Against Pancreatic Cancer
Nutrition is of great importance for patients undergoing pancreatic cancer treatment. The production of digestive enzymes may be affected after surgery. Therefore, patients need to adjust their diet and support their digestive system. The following nutritional recommendations should be taken into account:
- Balanced diet: A balance of protein, carbohydrates and fat should be achieved.
- High Fiber Foods: Fruits, vegetables and whole grains should be consumed.
- Frequent and Small Portions: Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of larger ones can help with digestion.
