What causes pancreas cancer is not entirely clear. Genetics plays a role in the development of the disease, and the diet you eat may have an impact on the risk. Some foods are known to increase your risk, such as red and yellow vegetables. Others may be more likely to get the disease because of their chemical exposure. Listed below are some of the factors that may increase your risk. But don’t worry, these factors are not the only causes of pancreas cancer.
While pancreatic cancer causes no noticeable symptoms at the start, symptoms are usually vague. These may include yellowing of the skin, pain in the abdomen, weight loss, and fatigue. Because the pancreas is hidden behind other organs, health care providers may not detect the tumor during routine examinations. Instead, they may perform blood tests and imaging tests to identify the tumor. In some cases, cancerous growths may be found in the early stages, which makes it difficult to treat the disease.
Currently, pancreas cancer is treated with radiation, chemo, and surgery. Surgical treatment can be difficult and can delay recovery. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of physicians and surgeons, 30% of patients do not fully complete the treatment regimen. However, with new advances in cancer treatments, the chances of recovery are higher. However, it is still important to remember that pancreatic cancer is hard to diagnose and many people die from it.
Although pancreatic cancer is relatively rare, it is the third-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Its 8.5% survival rate is one of the lowest among all cancers. In addition, smoking, chronic diabetes, and poor diet can increase your risk of developing the disease. There are many factors that contribute to the occurrence of pancreatic cancer, so knowing the exact causes of this disease is essential. If you have any of these factors in your life, try avoiding them.
Pancreas cancer is often hereditary. Smoking and obesity increase the risk. People who are overweight or obese are twice as likely to develop the disease as those who do not. Heavy alcohol consumption is also a risk factor. Alcohol is also known to increase the risk of pancreas cancer. Heavy alcohol use may lead to chronic pancreatitis. So, it’s important to quit smoking and exercise regularly.
Although the causes of pancreas cancer are unknown, certain risk factors have been identified. Researchers have determined that the damage to DNA in pancreatic cells can lead to the development of cancer. If you have a family history of pancreatic cancer, consult with a doctor if you suspect that you have the disease. If the symptoms persist or occur suddenly, contact your GP immediately. It may be a symptom of other conditions that need treatment.
While the incidence of pancreatic cancer is increasing globally, the majority of patients present with advanced disease. Although the research community is huge, clinical trials of pancreas cancer have remained behind. Anirban Maitra, MD, a pancreas cancer researcher at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, will moderate a pancreas cancer discussion forum. In the meantime, he hopes to find a cure for this terrible disease.
