Pancreatic cancer is a malignant tumor that forms in the pancreas. Symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, and weight loss. Causes may include genetics, lifestyle factors, and other medical conditions. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Early detection is crucial for improving outcomes, and there are promising developments in research and clinical trials.

1. PANCREATIC CANCER
SYMPTOMS, CAUSES AND TREATMENT
Dr. Vatsal Mehta

2. PANCREATIC CANCER
• Pancreatic cancer is a disease in which cancer
cells develop in the pancreas, a gland located in
the abdomen that produces enzymes to aid in
digestion and hormones that regulate blood
sugar levels.
• Pancreatic cancer is often called a “silent killer”
because it often does not cause symptoms until
it has reached an advanced stage.
• However, recognizing the symptoms of
pancreatic cancer is crucial for early detection
and treatment.

3. PANCREATIC CANCER SYMPTOMS
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.
• Abdominal or back pain: Pain in the upper abdomen or middle or upper back.
• Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying.
• Appetite loss: Losing the desire to eat or feeling full after eating a small amount.
• Nausea and vomiting: Feeling nauseous and vomiting.
• Change in stool: Light-colored, greasy, or floating stools.
• New-onset diabetes: Developing diabetes with no previous history.

4. PANCREATIC CANCER CAUSES
• Age: The risk of developing pancreatic cancer increases with age, and most people are diagnosed after the age of 65.
• Smoking: Tobacco use is one of the leading risk factors for pancreatic cancer.
• Family history: Individuals with a family history of pancreatic cancer have an increased risk of developing the disease.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
• Chronic pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation of the pancreas can increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
• Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes, especially those who have had the condition for a long time, have an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
• Genetics: Some inherited genetic mutations, such as the BRCA2 gene, can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

5. PANCREATIC CANCER TREATMENT
• Surgery: If the cancer is contained in the pancreas and has not spread to other organs, surgery may be an option. Surgery can involve
removing part of the pancreas or the entire pancreas, as well as nearby lymph nodes and other tissues.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery, or as the primary treatment for
advanced pancreatic cancer.
• Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific proteins or other factors that promote the growth of cancer cells.
• Clinical trials: Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or treatment combinations for pancreatic cancer.

6. PANCREATIC CANCER
SPECIALIST HELP
• Accurate diagnosis: A specialist can perform a thorough
evaluation and diagnostic tests to determine the stage
and location of pancreatic cancer.
• Treatment planning: A specialist can develop a
personalized treatment plan that considers the
individual’s overall health, preferences, and goals.
• Access to cutting-edge treatments: A specialist can
provide access to the latest advances in pancreatic
cancer treatment, including clinical trials and targeted
therapies.
• Symptom management: A specialist can help manage
symptoms related to pancreatic cancer, such as pain,
nausea, and loss of appetite.
• Emotional support: A specialist can provide emotional
support to the individual and their family throughout the
treatment process, including coping with the challenges
of living with pancreatic cancer.

7. Thank You
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