Understanding Pancreatic Cancer, Its Causes and Symptoms

Between 2014 and 2018, it was recorded that an average of 14 people were diagnosed with cancer daily. Of all the different types of cancers diagnosed in Singapore, breast cancer is the most common amongst women and colo-rectum cancer is widespread amongst men. With an estimated 1,119 cases, pancreatic cancer is listed as one of the top ten cancers that affect men. The gravity that this condition holds is further emphasised by the fact that in Singapore, pancreatic cancer is ranked as the “fifth and sixth most common causes of cancer death among men and women respectively.” With about 100 new annual cases recorded by the National University Cancer Institute of Singapore (NCIS), it is pivotal we understand the urgency that surrounds this disease – we cover the definition, causes, symptoms, and treatment for pancreatic cancer.

What is Pancreatic Cancer? 

As its name suggests, pancreatic cancer occurs in the pancreas, which is a vital organ that participates in both the exocrine and endocrine functions. Playing an important role through its production of enzymes that aids in the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, it is a key component in maintaining homeostasis in the body. It also releases hormones such as insulin and glucagon that are vital for blood sugar regulation.

Cancer, by definition, is the presence of malignant cells in an organ that grows and forms a tumour. As such, pancreatic cancer is a disease in which a cancerous tumour is found in the gland. This type of cancer has a reputation for being aggressive and deadly, especially in cases where early invention was not offered. They also present themselves in various forms depending on the cell and location they begin to divide uncontrollably. For example, the most common form is known as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, an exocrine malignant tumour formation. A neuroendocrine tumour, on the other hand, makes up the rare cases. About half of the patients in Singapore who do get diagnosed with pancreatic cancer suffer from the former – pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

What Causes Pancreatic Cancer?

Though thoroughly studied, the exact cause of pancreatic cancer still remains unknown. However, there are several known risk factors including, genetic disposition, smoking, and chronic pancreatitis.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer?

Unlike other cancers in which symptoms are demonstrated from the early stages, the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer are ‘silent’. Often only displayed in the advanced stages, it is thus important to have any of these symptoms checked by a medical expert so that they can be treated accordingly:

1. Jaundice: If a tumour is located in the bile duct, it could press against and block the flow of bile into the intestines. This can lead to an excessive build-up of bilirubin, causing the patient to become jaundiced, as seen in the yellowing of the skin and eye sclera.
2. Pain in the upper or middle abdominal back area: The pancreas is located horizontally and posteriorly in the abdomen. Therefore, when there is a cancerous mass, it could push onto or spread to the surrounding nerves, causing pain in the upper abdominal area and even radiate to the back.
3. Loss of appetite: Patients with pancreatic cancer often experience a loss of appetite.
4. Weight loss without a cause: A direct result of the above-mentioned symptom, unintended weight loss is also very common.
5. Tiredness and fatigue: Though a common sign observed in a wide range of conditions and diseases, changes in protein and hormone levels caused by cancer can lead to tiredness and fatigue.
6. Light-coloured stools: Bilirubin, a yellowish pigment produced during the breakdown of erythrocytes, is what gives stools their colour. When the bile duct is blocked by a cancerous mass, it is common for stools to be pale or greyish in colour. Since the release of bile is also stunted, undigested fat will be egested, causing the stool to float.

Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

Pancreatic cancer treatment is dependent on its stage and location. Often, a combination of surgery and radio or chemotherapy will be recommended. Despite all these treatments, surgery is the main form of treatment for pancreatic cancer, aimed at removing the original tumour on the pancreas itself. Here is a breakdown of possible pancreatic cancer treatment options:

1. Surgery: Pancreatic surgery can be done in the traditional open technique or in a minimally invasive manner. The aim of the surgery is of curative intent to completely remove the tumour.
2. Radiotherapy
3. Chemotherapy
4. Palliative pain treatment

The above-mentioned signs and symptoms can also be present in other illnesses, and the overall prognosis might vary depending on the course of action suggested by the specialist. Hence, thorough diagnostic tests and procedures are required for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. For proper medical advice, be sure to seek the advice of a specialist who will guide you through the various treatments for pancreatic cancer, depending on your condition.

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