Medical professionals have pointed out the warning signs of a serious disease that has an alarmingly low survival rate. We are talking about dangerous pancreatic cancer, which, although rare, is one of the deadliest forms of this disease. , while cancer treatment options have greatly improved, this type is still a huge problem for doctors.
- Pancreatic cancer has a low survival rate due to the difficult diagnosis.
- Detection of the disease is often delayed, which complicates the effectiveness of treatment.
- Experts have revealed the symptoms you should watch out for.
- There are ways you can effectively reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer.
The pancreas, a small organ located behind the stomach and in front of the spine, performs a key function in breaking down food in the small intestine. In addition, it is important in the production of hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which are important in regulating blood sugar levels.
However, experts warn of the symptoms of cancer that may arise in this organ. Despite the fact that early detection of the disease increases the patients’ chances of recovery, pancreatic cancer is very difficult to detect. This is why only a quarter of patients survive a year or longer and only 5% of people survive 10 years from diagnosis.
Pancreatic cancer is often detected late. (illustrative photo)
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Watch out for key symptoms
Cancer Research UK reports that the poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer is mainly due to late detection. Doctors often catch the disease only when it is already in an advanced stage. Experts from the American University of South Carolina urge people to seek help immediately if they experience symptoms of this condition. Warning signs include:
- Jaundice
- Light stool
- Dark urine
- Pain in the middle or upper abdomen and back
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Poor appetite
Experts say that, along with pale stools and dark urine, jaundice is the main warning sign of the disease. Other indicators include exhaustion, unexplained weight loss, and loss of appetite. “Diagnosing pancreatic cancer is difficult and often late. The symptoms are not always specific, and therefore their cause is often only discovered at an advanced stage“, they stated.
Experts warn of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer. (illustrative photo)
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You can reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer through a healthier lifestyle. you would they should limit alcohol consumption, stop smoking, reduce consumption of processed and red meat and maintain a healthy weight.
