Pancreatic cancer, while not as common as some other cancers, is a formidable adversary. This cancer begins when cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably, forming tumours. One of the most unsettling aspects of pancreatic cancer is its silent nature in its early stages.
Symptoms are often absent or mild, making detection challenging. It’s not until the cancer has advanced that patients typically experience noticeable symptoms, such as
- 1. Belly pain
- 2. Loss of appetite
- 3. Unexplained weight loss
- 4. Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
- 5. Pale-coloured stool and dark urine
- 6. Itching
- 7. Swelling or pain in the leg or arm
- 8. Overwhelming weakness or tiredness
However, there’s hope in annual health checkups for early detection and advanced treatment options. Sum Ultimate is renowned for its excellent cancer care, with a team of the best oncologists in Odisha specialising in pancreatic cancer.
What sets Sum Ultimate apart as the best cancer hospital in Bhubaneswar is the expertise in early detection and risk evaluation for hereditary pancreatic cancer and the comprehensive range of oncology services and treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Here are the top 5 risk factors for pancreatic cancer
1. Lifestyle Choices:
- 1. Smoking and alcohol consumption: This introduces harmful substances into the body that can lead to DNA damage in pancreatic cells. This damage can trigger mutations that transform healthy cells into cancerous ones.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Smoking cessation programmes and support groups can help people quit smoking, reducing the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Additionally, moderation in alcohol consumption is advised, with guidelines suggesting no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. - 2. Unhealthy Diet: Processed foods often contain high levels of unhealthy fats and sugars, which can promote obesity, chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which are associated with cancer development.
Aim for a balanced and healthy eating pattern. Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into the diet while limiting processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-fat, high-sugar snacks. - 3. Age and Gender: As people age, especially around 65, the cells in the body accumulate genetic mutations and damage over time. It can increase the likelihood of cells becoming cancerous. The gender difference in risk may be related to hormonal and lifestyle factors, and men are slightly more susceptible than women.
While age is not modifiable, regular medical check-ups and screenings become more critical, allowing early detection and treatment. For both men and women, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and avoiding risk factors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help reduce the overall risk.
2. Chronic Inflammation or Cyst in Pancreas
Chronic Inflammation or Cysts in Pancreas may also increase the risk of cancer if they become cancerous. Chronic inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, can be caused by factors such as alcohol abuse, smoking, injuries and certain genetic conditions.
Injuries and pancreatitis is the most common cause of pancreatic cysts, fluid-filled growths in the pancreas and are rarely caused by tuberculosis, tapeworms or other organisms.
Preventing chronic pancreatitis involves avoiding the risk factors that can cause inflammation, such as excessive alcohol consumption and smoking. Pancreatic cysts may require monitoring by a healthcare provider to detect any signs of cancer development early.
3. Type 2 Diabetes
The major risk factor for both type 2 diabetes and pancreatic cancer is Obesity. By maintaining a healthy weight and managing blood sugar, individuals can reduce their risk of developing both conditions.
4. Obesity
Obesity, characterised by excess body fat, is a well-established risk factor for pancreatic cancer. The precise mechanisms underlying this link are complex but may involve factors such as chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and changes in hormone levels associated with obesity.
A balanced diet that helps maintain a healthy weight and regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing both obesity and pancreatic cancer.
5. Family History of Pancreatic Cancer
For individuals with a family history of pancreatic cancer, early detection becomes paramount. Annual screenings using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound can help detect pancreatic cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage. Genetic counselling and testing may identify specific genetic risk factors.
Understanding the risk factors associated with pancreatic cancer is essential for prevention and early detection. It’s best to reach out to experts for a detailed evaluation and lifestyle guidance to minimise the risk of developing this challenging and often deadly disease.
Sum Ultimate stands out as the best cancer specialist hospital in Bhubaneswar for several reasons. Foremost, a team of the best oncologists in Bhubaneswar, specialising in pancreatic cancer. Their expertise covers all aspects of hereditary gastrointestinal cancers.
What’s more, Comprehensive Risk Evaluation. The sum ultimate hospital offers complete risk evaluation, initial assessment, and testing to identify inherited cancers and health conditions susceptible to cancer. They work with you to develop personalised risk management plans and long-term surveillance strategies.
Sum Ultimate collaborates closely with gastroenterologists, medical oncologists, and surgeons to provide high-quality care that considers all aspects of pancreatic cancer management.