Essential Insights into Pancreatic Cancer

DR. TAIWO OREBAMJO

What is pancreatic cancer?

— Pancreatic cancer occurs when healthy cells in the pancreas transform into abnormal ones and multiply uncontrollably. This gland, located behind the stomach, produces hormones and enzymes that aid in digestion by breaking down food.

In Nigeria, pancreatic cancer ranks as the 15th most prevalent type of cancer since it is relatively uncommon. Nonetheless, it remains an extremely dangerous illness because managing it is challenging due to insufficient awareness, delayed detection, and limited availability of appropriate treatment options.

What factors increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer?

Smoking or tobacco use

History of diabetes

Chronic pancreatitis

Stomach ulcer

Obesity

Helicobacter pylori in­fection

Chronic pancreatitis

Genetics or a significant family history of pancreatic cancer

What signs indicate pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer can be difficult to diagnose early because it often doesn›t cause symptoms until it has spread to other or­gans. Symptoms include:

Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes indicates jaundice.

Itchy skin

Darker urine

Pale stools

Unexpected weight reduction: Individuals could experience a lack of appetite or may feel satiated even after consuming small amounts.

Nausea

Feeling full

Unpleasant-smelling bowel movements: Diarrhea - Stools may appear oily or might not easily flush away in the toilet bowl.

Constipation

Discomfort - Individuals may experience ache originating in the abdominal region and radiating towards the back. This discomfort might be intermittent, intensifying post-meals.

Yellowing of the skin, known as jaundice—both the skin and the whites of the eyes may appear yellow. In individuals with pancreatic cancer, this condition typically occurs when one of the channels transporting bile from the gallbladder to the intestines becomes obstructed. The gallbladder, which has a small, pear-like shape, serves to store bile—a substance essential for breaking down fats within the body. A blockage in these bile ducts might also result in stools appearing pale or gray rather than their usual brown color.

These symptoms might also result from conditions unrelated to pancreatic cancer. However, if you experience these symptoms, make sure to inform your healthcare provider.

Are there tests available for pancreatic cancer?

— Indeed. If your healthcare provider believes you might have pancreatic cancer, they may request one or multiple tests. These could include:

¡Blood tests

Imaging tests like an ultrasound, a CT scan, or a procedure known as ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) — these examinations generate images of the internal structures and can reveal unusual masses.

For a biopsy, a healthcare provider removes a small piece of pancreatic tissue. A specialist then examines this sample under a microscope to detect any signs of cancer.

What is cancer staging?

— Staging cancer is a method used by physicians to determine the extent to which a cancer has progressed.

The appropriate therapy for you will largely hinge on the phase of your cancer. Additionally, your treatment choices will be influenced by factors such as your age and any other medical conditions you might have.

What methods are used for treating pancreatic cancer?

— Individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer may be provided with one or more of the following treatment options:

Surgery for pancreatic cancer may involve removing the tumor when possible. Prior to undergoing surgery, a medical professional might perform a "laparoscopy." During this process, several small incisions are made in the abdomen. A slender tube equipped with a camera is then inserted into these openings to assess whether the cancer has spread beyond the pancreas.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy refers to a category of medications utilized by medical professionals to eliminate cancerous cells.

Radiation therapy works by killing cancer cells with radiation.

Pancreatic cancer may sometimes be treated successfully depending on when it is discovered. It has a higher chance of being curable for those individuals who detect their condition during initial stages. If curing your pancreatic cancer isn’t possible, doctors will still manage your symptoms effectively. They might provide medications or recommend procedures such as a celiac plexus block aimed at minimizing discomfort like pain.

What happens after treat­ment?

After your treatment concludes, you'll undergo periodic evaluations to determine whether the cancer has recurred. These follow-up assessments typically consist of physical examinations, blood tests, and imaging studies. Should the cancer return post-treatment, additional chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be administered. Additionally, medications for managing pain along with other discomfort-relieving therapies could be prescribed as needed.

What additional steps should I take?

— It is important to follow all your doctors› instructions about visits and tests. It›s also import­ant to talk to your doctor about any side effects or problems you have during treatment.

Receiving care for pancreatic cancer requires numerous decisions, including selecting the appropriate therapy.

Always inform your healthcare providers of your feelings regarding a treatment. Whenever a new treatment is suggested, make sure to inquire:

What are the advantages of this treatment? Is it likely to increase my lifespan? Will it lessen or stop symptoms?

What are the drawbacks of this treatment?

Are there alternative treatments available besides this one?

What occurs if I don't receive this treatment?

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) may aid in digestion and support weight management if you have experienced weight loss.

What is the outlook for pancreatic cancer in Nigeria?

The outlook for pancreatic cancer in Nigeria is grim, characterized by a significant number of cases diagnosed at an advanced stage leading to a higher mortality rate. The survival rate after one year stands at 20%.

MKO Abimbola possesses a doctoral degree in Physician Associate Studies from the United States. He is also recognized as a scholar at Harvard Medical School. His expertise spans internal medicine, acute care, emergency medicine, geriatrics, psychiatry, and surgical services.

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