pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach.

The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion and produces enzymes that help break down food as well as hormones that regulate blood sugar levels.

Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the pancreas begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a tumor.

It is considered one of the more aggressive and lethal forms of cancer because it often progresses silently and is typically diagnosed at advanced stages.

There are two main types of pancreatic cancer:

Exocrine pancreatic cancer:

This is the most common type, accounting for about 95% of all pancreatic cancer cases. It starts in the cells that line the ducts of the pancreas and is further classified into different subtypes, such as adenocarcinoma.

Endocrine pancreatic cancer:

Also known as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) or islet cell tumors, this type accounts for about 5% of pancreatic cancer cases.

It originates in the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas and can be further divided into functional or non-functional tumors, depending on whether they release hormones into the bloodstream.

Pancreatic cancer often presents few symptoms in its early stages, which contributes to its high fatality rate.

As the disease progresses, symptoms may include abdominal or back pain, weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), loss of appetite, digestive problems, fatigue, and new-onset diabetes.

The exact causes of pancreatic cancer are not fully understood, but certain risk factors have been identified.

These include age (most cases occur in people over 60), smoking, obesity, a family history of pancreatic cancer or certain genetic syndromes,

chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and exposure to certain chemicals or toxins.

Treatment options for pancreatic cancer depend on various factors, including the stage of cancer,

the location of the tumor, and the overall health of the patient.

They may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.

However, due to the aggressive nature of the disease, the prognosis for pancreatic cancer is often poor, with a relatively low overall survival rate.