Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer
The Role of the Pancreas and Problems Related to Pancreatic Cancer.
It performs exocrine and endocrine functions. These enzymes are critical for protein, fat and carbohydrate digestion in the small intestine. If the pancreas is sick, like in the case of cancer, then those functions cannot be performed optimally. In this regard, pancreatic cancer brings about malabsorption syndromes, severe endocrine disorders like diabetes, accelerated breakdown of body systems, and possibly fatal multi-organ decline.
Pancreatic cancer initiates in the pancreas and is one of the deadliest cancers due to its rapid progression and lack of pre-symptomatic signs. It typically arises from disruptions within pancreatic cells that escalate normal functioning cells to mutate into aggressive cancerous cells. While not among the most commonly diagnosed cancers globally, it has one of the highest mortality rates because it is tardily diagnosed and there are no signs for early detection. There is some optimism in regards to risk assessment, education, and awareness about risk factors like chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and family history aiding in early intervention and improving survival outcomes.
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancers have two main classifications:
Primary Pancreatic Cancers: These cancers begin from the pancreas and frequently appear as Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) which is found most commonly in the ducts of the pancreas. Other forms of Acinar Cell Carcinomas PDACs include NETs, or neuroendocrine tumors. The less common Pancreatoblastomas also fall into this category.
Secondary Pancreatic Cancer : Metastatic pancreatic cancer refers to tumors that spread to the pancreas from other locations such as the lungs, breast, or colon. While more uncommon than primary pancreatic tumors, secondary tumors develop later and contribute to the complexities which arise in the clinical picture during the disease’s progression.
What Causes Pancreatic Cancer?
Chronic pancreatitis
Obesity
Type 2 Diabetes and Hereditary Conditions,
Such As BRCA2 And Lynch Syndrome.
Smoking and alcohol abuse have both increased significantly during recent decades.
Industrial and chemical exposure
