Pancreatic cancer originates in the pancreas, a glandular organ located behind the stomach that plays a key role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. Due to its deep location in the abdomen and the absence of early symptoms, pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making effective treatment challenging. It accounts for approximately 2.1% of all cancer cases and nearly 3.4% of cancer-related deaths in India.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Pancreatic cancer symptoms are often vague and non-specific in the early stages, leading to delayed diagnosis. Symptoms may include:
– Persistent abdominal pain radiating to the back
– Unexplained weight loss
– Loss of appetite
– Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
– Dark urine and light-colored stools
Diagnosis involves imaging tests like CT or MRI scans, endoscopic ultrasound, and biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. Biomarkers, such as CA 19-9, are sometimes used to monitor treatment response, though they aren’t definitive for early diagnosis.
Risk Factors
Factors that increase the risk of pancreatic cancer include:
– Age: Most cases occur in people over 60.
– Gender: Males are at a slightly higher risk.
– Smoking: Nearly 20-30% of cases are associated with tobacco use.
– Chronic Pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation of the pancreas is a risk factor.
– Genetic predisposition: Family history and certain genetic mutations can increase risk.
– Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is associated with a higher risk of pancreatic cancer.
Treatment and Challenges
Treatment for pancreatic cancer typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, only about 20% of cases are eligible for surgery, as most are detected at a late stage when the cancer has spread. Palliative care remains essential to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life in advanced cases. Recent research in immunotherapy and targeted therapies holds promise for improving survival rates.
Pancreatic Cancer in Indian Context: Early Documented Case
The earliest documented case of pancreatic cancer in India dates back to the early 20th century when Dr. D.D. Shastri, a renowned physician, observed and documented a case in a male patient with unexplained jaundice and abdominal pain. Initially misdiagnosed due to the limited diagnostic tools at the time, the patient’s condition was later identified as pancreatic carcinoma based on the autopsy results. This case highlighted the difficulties of diagnosing pancreatic cancer and underscored the need for improved diagnostic techniques, leading to advancements in imaging and biopsy methods.
Since then, India has made substantial progress in cancer research and patient care, with multiple cancer research centers actively studying pancreatic cancer. However, due to the aggressive nature of the disease and the limited early symptoms, challenges in early detection and treatment persist.
