Pancreatic cancer – C25

Pancreatic cancer is the most insidious type of cancer which has sadly been on the rise in recent years. The risk of the disease is accentuated by poor treatment outcomes for all disease stages. Pancreatic cancer has a very slow onset with no visible signs and it is regarded the most serious of digestive diseases. According to statistics, 11 out of 100,000 people are affected worldwide.

About the disease

The pancreas is a gland with internal and external secretion which apart from pancreatic juices produces hypoglycaemic agent. (important for regulating blood sugar levels) and many other hormones. Most pancreatic carcinomas appear in the efferent ducts of pancreatic juices. Pancreatic cancer often metastasises to nearby lymph nodes, liver and lungs.

Causes

Potential causes remain unknown; besides the notorious risk factors such as an unhealthy diet and smoking, caffeine is a subject of discussions. A higher risk is in people with genetic predispositions, a weak immune system, diabetes and chronic inflammation of the pancreas. Pancreatic cancer is more common in men.

Signs and symptoms

This “silent killer” causes no major problems at first; some non-specific problems such as increased fatigue, loss of appetite or weight loss are often overlooked; in 80% of cases the disease is detected late when it metastasises, usually to the liver or lungs, causing greater problems. Warning signs may include a special type of diabetes or non-infectious jaundice, depending on a tumor location there can also be e.g. pain in the upper abdomen (tumor in efferent ducts) or back pain (tumor near the spine). Therefore anybody experiencing similar symptoms should seek medical help.

Prognosis

Despite the great medical and scientific advancements the chances for recovery are low, particularly when signs and symptoms have been overlooked and the disease is detected late. Treatments focus on alleviation of the symptoms and prolonging and maintaining the quality of life. An individual approach to disease as well as the power of the immune system plays an important role. If cancer treatment is terminated and it can no longer provide cure, life is not over yet. Use the remaining time to solve all life “projects” and avoid giving up beforehand.

Impact of the immune system on pancreatic cancer

Immunity is the most important aspect of health and it stimulates the destruction of harmful cells protecting the body from illness. Hence, reinforcement of the immune system is significant in order to limit the growth of cancer. If the body is tired and unable to cope with daily life activities, or the weakness presents as diarrhoea, loss of appetite or other signs, it is recommended to use the natural food supplement to boost immunity. A stronger body regenerates and resists external effects better. When one is genetically predisposed to pancreatic cancer or cancer in general, the prevention is important even more so.