Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is defined as a condition showcasing a malignant neoplasm which is from the tissues of the pancreas. The most common form of pancreatic cancer that is associated with around 95% of the tumors is known as adenocarcinoma which is from the exocrine component of the pancreas. Some of these are from the islet cells and can be defined as the neuroendocrine tumors. The symptoms that generally lead to the diagnosis of this type of cancer will vary depending on the size, location, and type of tissue that is part of the tumor. These symptoms can include lower back pain, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Jaundice is more likely when the tumor is pressing against the bile duct within the body. Currently, pancreatic cancer is considered to be one of the fourth most common causes of deaths that are related to cancer within the United States. Unfortunately, there is a low prognosis rate for all of the stages combined because there is a very low survival rate for this type of cancer. In most cases, the early stages of pancreatic cancer does not show or cause any possible symptoms. The symptoms eventually become non-specific and can vary, making it difficult to determine whether or not they are related to cancer initially. However, there are some common symptoms that individuals can search for. These include a loss of appetite, pain in the upper abdomen, jaundice being present without any pain, weight loss, diabetes, clinical depression, symptoms associated with pancreatic cancer mestastasis, and blood clots. If these symptoms are experienced during the same time, it can be an indication that pancreatic cancer is possibly present. The risk for developing pancreatic cancer tends to grow with age. Most individuals experience the cancer after the age of 60, however there are some cases that have occurred around the age of 40, though uncommon. Those who smoke are more likely to develop this type of cancer as well. Other elements which can put individuals at risk include diets high in sugary drinks and red meat, obesity, gingivitis, chronic pancreatitis, diets low in fruits and vegetables, and a previous family history of pancreatic cancer. There is still some debate over whether or not alcohol and continued usage of it eventually leads to the development of pancreatic cancer. Some studies have suggested that those who overly abuse the amount of alcohol that they intake on a regular basis may possibly be increasing their risk for developing pancreatic cancer, but this has not yet been clearly defined.