What is pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer, also known as pancreatic carcinoma, is cancer that develops in the cells of the pancreas. It typically starts in the cells that line the ducts of the pancreas, which are responsible for carrying digestive juices to the small intestine. Over time, the cancer cells may spread to other parts of the pancreas and nearby organs, such as the liver and stomach. According to the top medical oncologist in Kolkata, pancreatic cancer may also spread to other parts of the body, like the lungs, bones, and lymph nodes.

In the early stages of the disease, there may be no noticeable symptoms. However, as per a pancreas doctor in Kolkata, when cancer grows and spreads, the following symptoms may occur :

1. Abdominal pain 2. Weight loss 3. Jaundice 4 . Digestive problems 5. Fatigue 6. Diabetes

According to the best oncologist in Kolkata, several known risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include :

1. Age : Pancreatic cancer is more common in people over the age of 50. 2. Smoking : Smoking is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer. 3. Obesity : Being obese or overweight increases the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. 4. Family history : A family history of pancreatic cancer or other cancers can increase the risk of developing the disease. 5. Chronic pancreatitis : Long-term inflammation of the pancreas can increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. 6. Diabetes : People with diabetes are at a high risk of developing pancreatic cancer. 7. Certain genetic mutations : Inherited mutations in certain genes, such as BRCA2, can increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

The main treatment options for pancreatic cancer include :

1. Chemotherapy : It involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery to shrink the tumour or prevent cancer from coming back. 2. Radiation therapy : It involves the use of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used in combination with other treatments or alone. 3. Immunotherapy : Immunotherapy uses drugs to stimulate the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells. It might be used alone or in combination with other treatments. 4. Surgery : Surgical removal of the cancerous tissue is often the preferred treatment for pancreatic cancer, especially if the cancer is localized and has not spread to other parts of the body.