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Pancreatic Cancer
Aggressive cancer starting in pancreatic tissues. Difficult to detect early.
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer
The pancreas aids digestion and regulates blood sugar. This cancer is often found late because it causes no early symptoms and is hidden behind other organs. It is one of the toughest cancers to treat.
Symptoms (Often Advanced)
- Abdominal pain that radiates to the back.
- Loss of appetite and unintended weight loss.
- Jaundice (yellow skin/eyes) without pain.
- Light-colored stools and dark urine.
- Blood clots (e.g., in the leg).
- Extreme fatigue and new-onset depression.
Management Options
Surgery is the only potential curative option but is possible in only a minority of cases.
Whipple Procedure (Surgery)
Complex operation to remove the head of the pancreas and nearby organs.
Chemotherapy (e.g., FOLFIRINOX)
Potent regimens to shrink tumors or control advanced disease.