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pancreatic Cancer treatment
Pancreatic cancer is the 12th most common cancer in the world. In just the United States, about 67,000 people will be diagnosed with the disease in 2024—with men more likely to have it than women. The disease is one of the most serious forms of cancer, with its mortality rate being among the highest. However, it should be noted that, in general, the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer currently sits at 12%—an increase from recent years.
Although pancreatic cancer is lethal and the survival rates for the disease are generally low compared to many other types of cancer, a patient’s outcome can vary based on factors such as the cancer’s stage at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for the disease shoots up to about 44% if the cancer is localized or hasn’t spread outside the pancreas—which is typically the case if it is caught early. Thus, the earlier pancreatic cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis.
Historically, the disease has often been diagnosed at an advanced stage, mainly due to the disease showing little or no symptoms until it has advanced and spread, leading to a patient being diagnosed with late-stage pancreatic cancer. It is vital then that a patient stays proactive and gets themself screened for the disease periodically, especially if they have any of the risk factors associated with the cancer.
Researchers are continually investigating new ways of screening and treating pancreatic cancer. There are currently a plethora of methods, some of which include CT, PET, and MRI scans and endoscopic ultrasound, CA 19-9 and CEA blood tests, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, targeted therapy, and pancreatectomy. If you or someone you are close to has pancreatic cancer, understanding your choices can help you make better informed decisions about your course of action.
In this guide, you can find out all about pancreatic cancer and the best treatments available. We also cover various factors to consider when thinking about a personalized care plan, as well as what to expect for each treatment option. Let’s start!
This type of cancer consists of a malignant growth in the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that is in charge of converting food into fuel and regulating blood sugar. Pancreatic cancers manifest in two primary ways: exocrine tumors, constituting over 90% of all cases, typically present as adenocarcinoma, originating from organ-lining cells. The less common type, neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), accounting for less than 10% of cases, are also known as islet cell carcinoma.
Pancreatic cancer may cause no symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, the most common issues associated with it include pain in the upper abdomen and/or upper and middle back, loss of appetite, unintentional weight loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in stool consistency, blood clots, new-onset diabetes, jaundice, light stools and dark urine, and fatigue.
It’s worth noting that these issues may not always be a sign of pancreatic cancer. Another condition that causes similar symptoms is pancreatitis. Regardless, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Several studies have identified other pancreatic cancer risk factors, but the evidence is not conclusive. More research is needed. These other potential risk factors include heavy alcohol consumption, diets high in red and processed meats, lack of physical activity, drinking coffee, and infection with Hepatitis B.
It's crucial to understand that possessing one or more of these risk factors doesn't guarantee the development of pancreatic cancer. The key is to remain proactive by engaging in open discussions with your doctor about your individual risk profile and adhering to recommended screening protocols for the disease. Detecting pancreatic cancer early and promptly seeking treatment significantly enhances the prospects for effective management of the condition.
Treatment plans, as previously indicated, are typically customized to individuals and may encompass a blend of the aforementioned choices. Engaging in a dialogue with your healthcare team about the potential advantages, drawbacks, and adverse effects of each treatment alternative is crucial for determining the most suitable course of action. Remember: pancreatic cancer is complex and typically requires a multifaceted approach to addressing it. The assessment of the optimal treatment strategy for the disease is a pivotal phase in effectively managing the illness.
It's essential to recognize that pancreatic cancer doesn't adhere to a uniform treatment model. Each patient's situation is distinct, and the most effective treatment approach may differ from one individual to another. Collaborating with a healthcare team enables you to access care and advice tailored to your particular circumstances.
Making decisions regarding treatment involves carefully considering the potential advantages and drawbacks. For instance, chemotherapy, while addressing pancreatic cancer, may result in side effects like hair loss, mouth sores, diarrhea or constipation, and a heightened risk of infection. Similarly, the whipple procedure offers a chance to eradicate the cancer entirely, but it also poses serious risks such as diabetes, digestive issues, changes in bowel habits, organ leakage, and even death. Thus, treatment itself can significantly affect one's quality of life. Engaging in thorough discussions with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of each option enables you to choose treatments that align with your objectives and minimize adverse impacts.
It's important to recognize that ongoing monitoring and follow-up care remain essential for patients with pancreatic cancer post-treatment, especially to assess treatment effectiveness, monitor for recurrence, and manage long-term side effects or complications. Besides collaborating closely with your healthcare team for personalized care, seeking support from loved ones, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular exercise, staying informed about treatment and recovery, and connecting with fellow cancer survivors can all be invaluable throughout your journey as a survivor.
In essence, fostering effective communication between patients and healthcare providers serves as a cornerstone of pancreatic cancer care. Through this collaboration, individuals can receive tailored care, make well-informed treatment decisions, and enhance their overall outcomes and quality of life.
BASS Cancer Center houses a comprehensive team of healthcare professionals, comprising esteemed medical and radiation oncologists, social workers, care coordinators, financial counselors, and patient education specialists dedicated to delivering advanced cancer care. Our team collaborates to tailor personalized treatment plans for each patient, providing unwavering support to them and their families throughout their journey.
Our center integrates cutting-edge PET/CT imaging technology, exemplified by the Biograph 6, and employs state-of-the-art therapeutic machinery. Among these, the MRIdian, an MRI-guided treatment system, offers non-invasive radiation therapy that enhances dose precision while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. Additionally, the Elekta Versa HD, an innovative imaging and motion management technology, further elevates our capabilities in radiation therapy. Alongside these advancements, we offer a range of treatment options encompassing surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy to ensure thorough care for our patients.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, trust the team at BASS Cancer Center to provide exceptional care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you in your fight against pancreatic cancer.
At BASS Cancer Center, you will find a knowledgeable and compassionate team of healthcare professionals dedicated to providing the best possible care for pancreatic cancer patients in the San Francisco Bay Area. Dr. Chao is a highly experienced and trusted pancreatic cancer radiation oncologist with over 14 years of experience in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. BASS utilizes the most advanced surgical techniques and cancer fighting technology to ensure the best possible outcomes for all patients.
BASS Cancer Center has made it a priority to invest in the best possible cancer treating technology for it's cancer patients.
Located in Northern California in Walnut Creek at 575 Lennon Ln, STE 153, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
