Pancreatic cancer
Early detection saves lives
Pancreatic carcinoma, also known as pancreatic cancer, is a serious disease that is often only diagnosed at an advanced stage. In this article you will learn more about the causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment options and prevention strategies.
Causes and risk factors
The exact causes of pancreatic cancer are not yet fully understood. However, several risk factors have been identified that can increase the probability:
- Smoking: Tobacco consumption is considered one of the most significant risk factors.
- Age: People over 60 are more frequently affected.
- Family history: A family history of pancreatic cancer can increase the risk.
- Chronic pancreatitis: Prolonged inflammation of the pancreas can contribute to the development of cancer.
- Diabetes mellitus: Existing diabetes can increase the risk.
- Obesity and a high-fat diet: these factors can also increase the risk.
Symptoms: Recognize warning signs
In the early stages, pancreatic carcinoma often causes no specific symptoms, which makes early diagnosis difficult. Possible signs in the advanced stage are
- Jaundice (icterus): Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bile stasis.
- Upper abdominal and back pain: dull pain that can radiate into the back.
- Loss of appetite and weight loss: Involuntary weight loss and lack of appetite.
- Nausea and vomiting: Digestive problems may occur.
- Dark urine and light-colored stools: Changes in urine and stool color may indicate a bile blockage.
If you notice any of these symptoms, please do not hesitate to contact us. An early examination can provide clarity and is painless.
Diagnostic options
- Imaging procedures: Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) help to visualize tumors.
- Endosonography: A special ultrasound examination of the gastrointestinal tract enables a precise assessment.
- Biopsy: Removal of tissue samples for histological examination.
- Blood tests: Determination of tumor markers such as CA 19-9 can provide clues.
Modern treatment approaches
The treatment of pancreatic cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the patient’s general state of health:
- Surgery: Localized tumors can be surgically removed.
- Chemotherapy: Use of drugs that kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth.
- Radiotherapy: Targeted radiation can destroy tumor cells,
Prevention
Although not all risk factors can be influenced, the following measures can possibly reduce the risk:
- Quit smoking: giving up tobacco significantly reduces the risk.
- Healthy diet: A high-fiber diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables can have a preventive effect.
- Weight control: A healthy body weight reduces the risk.
- Regular exercise: An active lifestyle promotes general health.
- Reduce alcohol consumption: Moderate use of alcohol can reduce the risk.