ALTHOUGH a less common cancer in the UK, pancreatic cancer has perhaps the worst survival rate, with less than one in 20 alive five years after a diagnosis.
Due to the deaths of high-profile individuals including actor Patrick Swayze and Apple Founder Steve Jobs, there has been a significant increase in awareness of pancreatic cancer over the last few years.
Unfortunately, the pancreas lives in what could be called no man’s land, often making diagnosis difficult. Many go to their doctor several times before the diagnosis is considered.
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In the early stages of pancreatic cancer, there may be few if any symptoms. These are often vague. Indigestion is perhaps the most diagnosed cause at first.
However, if not identified early, pancreatic cancer can rapidly grow. Complaints include jaundice, itching, dark urine, and pale stools.
Macmillan Cancer Support charity are highlighting the importance of checking symptoms, especially not ignoring pale stools.
Other symptoms that should prompt concern are upper abdominal and back pain, especially that which is persistent and worsening. New onset diabetes, or a previously controlled diabetes that suddenly becomes difficult to manage, may also be signs of pancreatic cancer.
Though the treatment of early diagnosed pancreatic cancer may result in a good outcome, sadly for many this is not the case.
Hence focus on prevention and early diagnosis are the most important tools in the fight against the disease.
Lifestyle choices play a significant role in the development of pancreatic cancer. Smoking and excess alcohol increase the risk of pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas. Recurrent or chronic pancreatitis increases the risk of change to cancer.
A Body Mass Index of greater than 30 may raise the risk of pancreatic cancer by up to 20 per cent.
Though most pancreatic cancers occur over the age of 60, certain genetic conditions are associated with a greater likelihood.
New developments in identifying pancreatic cancer at an earlier stage have come in the form of both blood and stool tests.
A group at University College San Diego have developed a blood test that identifies abnormal proteins released by cancer cells in the early stages of the disease. Also, in Spain, researchers are looking at stool sample tests.
If either or both tests become mainstream, this may make detection of pancreatic cancer much easier and quicker.
For now, focus efforts on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, controlling diabetes, and not ignoring any changes to your urine or stools.
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