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Learn More About
Pancreatic Cancer

Anatomy of the Pancreas

The pancreas is a crucial organ located behind the stomach. It has two main functions: producing digestive enzymes to help break down food in the small intestine and producing hormones like insulin to regulate blood sugar levels.

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Types of Pancreatic Cancer

Exocrine Pancreatic Cancer (Adenocarcinoma): - This is the most common type, accounting for about 95% of pancreatic cancer cases. It starts in the exocrine cells that produce digestive enzymes. Most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage due to the lack of early symptoms.

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Endocrine Pancreatic Cancer (Neuroendocrine Tumors): - These are less common and usually grow slower than exocrine tumors. They start in the endocrine cells, which produce hormones like insulin and glucagon. Unlike exocrine tumors, some of these can be functional, meaning they produce excess hormones, leading to specific symptoms.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of pancreatic cancer is often unknown, several risk factors have been identified, including:

  • Long-standing diabetes

  • Chronic and hereditary pancreatitis

  • Smoking

  • Race (ethnicity): African-American or Ashkenazi Jew

  • Age: over the age of 60

  • Gender: males slightly more likely

  • Diets high in red and processed meats

  • Obesity

Symptoms

Pancreatic cancer symptoms often don't appear until the disease is advanced. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

  • Abdominal pain or discomfort, which may radiate to the back.

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) due to blocked bile ducts.

  • Unexplained weight loss.

  • Loss of appetite.

  • Fatigue.

  • Digestive problems, such as diarrhea and indigestion.

How many Americans are diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer?

  • In 2023, it is estimated that more than 64,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

  • This means an average of 175 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer every day in the United States.

  • Pancreatic cancer ranks as the 10th most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S.

Diagnosis

  • Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. To confirm the diagnosis, the following tests may be conducted:

    • Blood tests to check for tumor markers and assess liver and kidney function.

    • Imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) to visualize the pancreas and surrounding structures.

    • Biopsy, which involves taking a sample of pancreatic tissue to confirm cancer.​

Staging

Staging helps determine the extent of the cancer and guides treatment decisions. It involves evaluating the tumor size, lymph node involvement, and the presence of distant metastases.
 

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Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage and type of pancreatic cancer. Common treatment options include:

  • Surgery: Depending on the tumor's location and stage, surgery may involve removing part or all of the pancreas, surrounding tissues, or organs.

  • Chemotherapy: Powerful drugs are used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth.

  • Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are targeted at the cancer to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors.

  • Targeted Therapy: Drugs are designed to target specific molecules involved in cancer growth.

  • Immunotherapy: This treatment aims to boost the patient's immune system to fight cancer.

  • Palliative Care: This focuses on improving the patient's quality of life and managing symptoms, especially in advanced cases.

Prognosis

Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed late, making it difficult to cure. Survival rates vary widely based on the stage at diagnosis, treatment success, and individual factors. Discussing prognosis with the healthcare team is essential for realistic expectations.

Emotional and Social Support

A pancreatic cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. Patients should seek emotional support from healthcare providers, therapists, support groups, and loved ones.

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The Pancreatic Cancer action network and the Lustgarten Foundation are two great resources for patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and their families.

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What Treatments Exist for Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the patient’s general health. Patients may get standard (approved) treatments or take part in clinical trials.

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Standard treatments are surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Clinical trials study new treatments. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network strongly recommends clinical trials at diagnosis and during every treatment decision.

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