Pancreatic Cancer in Margate, FL
What Is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is cancer of the pancreas, which is an organ behind your stomach. This type of cancer is caused by cells in your pancreas growing out of control.
The Types of Pancreatic Cancer
Your pancreas is made up of exocrine cells, which are cells that help you digest your foods, and endocrine cells, which produce hormones including insulin and glucagon. The types of pancreatic cancer are endocrine pancreatic cancer, and exocrine pancreatic cancer, and they have different signs, symptoms, treatment, and prognoses.
Exocrine Pancreatic Cancer
This is the most common type of pancreatic cancer, with pancreatic adenocarcinoma, making up about 95% of all exocrine cancers.
Endocrine Pancreatic Cancer
This type of pancreatic cancer is classified according to grade, which means how quickly the cancer can spread. The grades are:
Grade 1, which is also called low grade and will not multiply quickly
Grade 2, which is an intermediate tumor, with characteristics of both low and high grade tumors
Grade 3, which is also called a high grade tumor and is likely to multiply quickly
Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer
There are several factors which can raise your risk of developing pancreatic cancer. These are:
- Smoking
- Being overweight or obese
- Having diabetes
- Having a family history of pancreatic cancer
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
- Experiencing chronic pancreatitis
Signs and Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
There are several signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer, including:
- Jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin
- Pain in your abdomen or back
- Weight loss and poor appetite
- Chronic nausea and vomiting
Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer can be treated in several ways, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Treatment options include:
- Surgery
- Ablation of the tumor
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
These treatments are often used in combination to obtain the best outcome.