Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer refers to cancer that originates in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that is responsible for producing digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin. Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed in later stages because the symptoms are subtle and can easily be mistaken for other conditions. This type of cancer is known for its aggressive nature and poor survival rate, making early detection and treatment crucial. Get in touch with us to book an appointment with some of the best oncologists in Gurgaon for pancreatic cancer treatment.
What are the Different Types of Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is primarily categorized into two types:
These are the most common types of pancreatic cancer, accounting for approximately 95% of cases. Exocrine tumours, particularly pancreatic adenocarcinoma, begin in the cells that produce digestive enzymes. These tumours tend to be aggressive and spread quickly.
Neuroendocrine Tumors (Islet Cell Tumors)
Neuroendocrine tumours develop in the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas. Although less common, these tumours are generally slower growing and have a better prognosis compared to exocrine tumours. They can produce excess hormones that cause specific symptoms.
What are the Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer?
The symptoms of pancreatic cancer can be subtle in the early stages and may vary between men and women. Common symptoms of pancreatic cancer include:
Discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen that may radiate to the back.
Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bile duct obstruction, which can occur as the tumour grows.
Unexplained weight loss can occur, often accompanied by a loss of appetite.
This includes nausea, vomiting, and changes in stool, such as pale or greasy stools, indicating problems with fat digestion.
Sudden development of diabetes in older adults can be a sign, as pancreatic cancer may disrupt insulin production.
Persistent tiredness and weakness are common as the body battles the disease.
Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms in Female and Male
Women may experience digestive issues such as nausea, bloating, or pain in the abdomen, and may also notice changes in their stool, such as pale or oily stools.
Men may experience symptoms such as weight loss, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice, similar to women, but may also have a higher risk due to genetic factors and lifestyle habits like smoking.
What Causes Pancreatic Cancer?
While the exact cause of pancreatic cancer is not fully understood, several factors may contribute to its development. Genetic mutations, chronic inflammation, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity have all been linked to the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Additionally, those with a family history of pancreatic cancer or genetic syndromes like BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations may have an increased risk.
Pancreatic Cancer Risk Factors
The risk of pancreatic cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in individuals over 65 years of age.
Tobacco use is a significant risk factor, with smokers being two to three times more likely to develop the disease compared to non-smokers.
Obesity is linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer, as it can lead to chronic inflammation and changes in hormone levels, which may promote cancer development.
A family history of pancreatic cancer or genetic syndromes such as BRCA2 mutations increases the risk. Individuals with immediate relatives who have had pancreatic cancer are also at a higher risk.
A sudden or unexplained diagnosis of diabetes, especially in older adults, can be a warning sign of pancreatic cancer.
Long-term inflammation of the pancreas, often due to heavy alcohol use or genetic factors, can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
When to Consult the Oncologist for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment?
Consult an oncologist for pancreatic cancer treatment in case you experience any of the following:
If you notice unexplained weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or persistent abdominal pain, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Pancreatic Cancer Risk Factors
If you have a family history of pancreatic cancer or other risk factors (such as smoking, obesity, or diabetes), it’s crucial to discuss your concerns with a doctor for early detection or preventative measures.
If you have new or worsening digestive problems, such as difficulty eating, nausea, or vomiting, it's worth consulting a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Changes in Stool or Urine
Dark urine or pale stools, combined with other symptoms like fatigue, could indicate a problem with the pancreas and require immediate medical attention.
Difficulty in Managing Chronic Conditions
If you have diabetes or a history of pancreatitis and notice worsening symptoms, it’s essential to talk to a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
How is Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosing pancreatic cancer requires a combination of tests to confirm the presence of cancer and determine its stage. Common diagnostic methods include:
Imaging tests like CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound are commonly used to locate the tumor and assess its size and spread. A pancreatic cancer CT scan is particularly useful for evaluating the pancreas and detecting any signs of metastasis.
Blood tests, including tests for pancreatic cancer markers like CA 19-9, can help in the diagnosis. However, elevated levels of CA 19-9 are not definitive as this marker can also be elevated in other conditions.
This procedure involves a small incision in the abdomen to insert a camera to visually inspect the pancreas and other organs to determine the extent of cancer spread.
Genetic testing can help identify inherited mutations like BRCA1/BRCA2, which may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
What are the Treatment Options for Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is a challenging disease that requires a personalized approach to treatment, depending on the cancer's stage, location, and whether it has spread. The treatment plan often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapies, and palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Below are the primary treatment options available for pancreatic cancer:
Surgery for Pancreatic Cancer
Surgery is the most effective treatment option for pancreatic cancer if the tumor is localized (confined to the pancreas) and can be removed. The specific surgical procedure depends on the tumour’s location within the pancreas.
Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy)
This is the most common surgery for tumors located in the head of the pancreas. During the Whipple procedure, the surgeon removes the head of the pancreas, part of the small intestine, bile duct, gallbladder, and sometimes nearby lymph nodes. This is a complex and major surgery that requires careful post-operative care.
If the tumor is located in the body or tail of the pancreas, the surgeon may remove part or all of the pancreas, and sometimes the spleen. This surgery is less extensive than the Whipple procedure but is still significant.
In rare cases, when the tumor affects the entire pancreas, a total pancreatectomy may be performed. This involves removing the entire pancreas, along with the spleen, parts of the stomach, and small intestine.
Chemotherapy for Pancreatic Cancer
Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery, as a primary treatment for advanced cancer, or as palliative care to manage symptoms. Chemotherapy drugs are used to kill cancer cells, slow tumor growth, and shrink tumors to make surgery more effective.
After surgery, chemotherapy may be used to kill any remaining cancer cells that could not be removed, reducing the risk of recurrence.
This approach uses chemotherapy before surgery to shrink the tumor, making it easier to remove.
In cases of advanced pancreatic cancer, chemotherapy may help alleviate symptoms, extend survival, and improve quality of life.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It is typically used in combination with chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer, especially in advanced cases.
This is the most common form of radiation therapy, where beams of radiation are directed from outside the body to the tumor site. It is often used for pancreatic cancer incombination with chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before surgery or to reduce symptoms in advanced stages.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)
This advanced technique delivers high doses of radiation to the tumour with great precision, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Radiation therapy is often used when the cancer cannot be surgically removed or when symptoms need to be managed.
Targeted therapy involves drugs or other substances that specifically target cancer cells without affecting normal cells. This treatment aims to block the growth and spread of cancer by targeting the molecular changes that cause pancreatic cancer cells to grow.
For pancreatic cancer, targeted therapies are often still in experimental stages, but promising options are being studied. Some drugs focus on proteins and pathways that are essential for the growth of cancer cells.
Immunotherapy is a treatment that uses the body's immune system to fight cancer. While it is still being studied for pancreatic cancer, there have been some promising developments.
These drugs block certain proteins that prevent immune cells from attacking cancer cells. While immunotherapy is not yet a standard treatment for pancreatic cancer, it is being investigated in clinical trials for patients with certain genetic mutations or those with metastatic pancreatic cancer.
Cancer vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Research is ongoing to develop vaccines for pancreatic cancer, though they are not yet widely available.
Palliative Care and Pain Management
Pancreatic cancer is known for causing significant pain, especially in advanced stages. Palliative care aims to relieve pain and improve the quality of life for patients who cannot undergo curative treatment.
Narcotics (opioids), nerve blocks, and other pain-relief methods are often used to control the pain caused by pancreatic cancer.
In cases where a tumour is obstructing the bile duct or intestines, palliative surgery may be performed to relieve symptoms and prevent further complications.
For tumors causing bile duct obstruction, a stent may be placed to help bile flow from the liver to the intestines, preventing jaundice and related complications.
What are the Complications of Prolonged Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and challenging forms of cancer, often diagnosed at an advanced stage. As the condition progresses, it not only impacts the pancreas but can also affect surrounding organs and systems in the body. The effects of prolonged pancreatic cancer extend beyond the tumour itself, influencing a patient's general health and quality of life.
Understanding the complexities of prolonged pancreatic cancer is key to providing comprehensive care and improving the patient’s well-being throughout the course of the disease. Pancreatic cancer can lead to a number of complications, including:
Difficulty in digestion and loss of appetite may cause malnutrition.
Blockage of the bile duct can cause yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Pancreatic cancer can increase the risk of developing blood clots.
The loss of pancreatic function may lead to diabetes, especially in people who did not have it before.
What are Pancreatic Cancer Prevention Tips?
While it is not always possible to prevent pancreatic cancer, there are several lifestyle changes and health strategies that can lower the risk. By making healthy choices and addressing known risk factors, individuals can improve their chances of reducing the likelihood of developing this aggressive disease. Here are some effective prevention tips for pancreatic cancer:
Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for pancreatic cancer. It is linked to up to 30% of all pancreatic cancer cases. Smokers are at a higher risk because the chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the pancreas and increase the likelihood of mutations that lead to cancer.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is a major risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Being overweight can cause increased inflammation in the body and higher insulin levels, both of which contribute to cancer development.
A nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce cancer risk. These foods contain antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which are known to fight inflammation and support a healthy immune system.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of chronic pancreatitis, which in turn raises the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. It can also contribute to liver damage, further increasing cancer risk.
Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces inflammation, and lowers the risk of various cancers, including pancreatic cancer. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Activities such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling are excellent choices for improving overall health.
Control Blood Sugar Levels
People with diabetes, especially those diagnosed later in life, have a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels are associated with increased pancreatic cancer risk.
Manage Chronic Pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis, long-term inflammation of the pancreas, increases the risk of pancreatic cancer. Avoiding behaviours such as excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can help reduce the risk of developing chronic pancreatitis.
Consider Genetic Counseling
In case of a family history of pancreatic cancer or inherited genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), your risk for pancreatic cancer may be higher. Genetic counselling and testing can help identify individuals at elevated risk, allowing for early detection and preventive measures.
Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health and supports pancreatic function. Adequate hydration helps maintain digestive health and reduces the burden on the pancreas. It is advisable to drink at least 8 cups of water daily, more if you’re physically active or live in a hot climate.
Limit Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
Occupational exposure to certain chemicals, such as pesticides, chemicals in the textile industry, or those used in metalworking, may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. Workers exposed to these chemicals should take appropriate safety measures to minimize their risk.
Choose Artemis Hospitals for Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Management In Gurgaon:
To book an appointment with the top oncologist for pancreatic cancer management at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Pawan Rawal
Head Unit I – Gastroenterology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pancreatic Cancer Survival Rate?
The prognosis depends on the stage of cancer at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and the success of treatment. For stage 4 pancreatic cancer, survival rates are typically very low, with patients living only a few months to a year after diagnosis.
How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?
Through imaging tests like CT scans, blood tests, and sometimes genetic testing.
Is there a cure for pancreatic cancer?
The cure depends on the stage of cancer, but surgery combined with chemotherapy may offer a chance of remission in the early stages.
Can pancreatic cancer be prevented?
While not all cases are preventable, avoiding smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising can reduce the risk.
What is the ICD-10 coding for pancreatic cancer?
The ICD-10 code for pancreatic cancer is C25.
C25.0 - Malignant neoplasm of head of pancreas
C25.1 - Malignant neoplasm of body of pancreas
C25.2 - Malignant neoplasm of tail of pancreas
C25.3 - Malignant neoplasm of pancreas, part unspecified
C25.4 - Malignant neoplasm of islet cells of pancreas
C25.7 - Malignant neoplasm of pancreas, other specified parts
C25.9 - Malignant neoplasm of pancreas, unspecified
Who is at risk for pancreatic cancer?
Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include smoking, obesity, diabetes, family history, age, and certain genetic mutations.
Can lifestyle changes reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer?
Yes, adopting a healthy lifestyle, including quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising, can reduce the risk.
How does smoking affect pancreatic cancer risk?
Smoking significantly increases the risk of pancreatic cancer by exposing the pancreas to harmful chemicals that cause cell damage.
How is pancreatic cancer staged?
Pancreatic cancer is staged based on the tumour size, location, and whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs.
How does pancreatic cancer affect digestion?
Pancreatic cancer can interfere with the pancreas’s ability to produce digestive enzymes, leading to problems like malnutrition, weight loss, and indigestion.
