Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located behind the lower part of the stomach that helps with digestion and blood sugar regulation. The most common type is pancreatic adenocarcinoma, which arises in the exocrine cells responsible for producing digestive enzymes. Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to the subtlety of early symptoms.
Pancreatic cancer often presents with non-specific symptoms, making early detection challenging. Common symptoms include:
Diagnosing pancreatic cancer typically involves a combination of imaging tests, blood tests, and biopsy procedures:
1. Imaging Tests:
2. Genetic Testing:
1. Risk Factor Management
2. Surveillance
3. Genetic Counseling and Testing
Early detection of pancreatic cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. However, due to the subtlety of early symptoms, awareness of risk factors and prompt medical evaluation for any concerning symptoms are crucial.