PANCREATIC CANCER

Pancreatic cancer usually does not cause any symptoms in the early stages. However, the following symptoms may occur in later stages: ✔ Abdominal and back pain ✔ Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite ✔ Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) ✔ Digestive problems, bloating and nausea ✔ New-onset diabetes ✔ Dark urine and light-colored stools If any of these symptoms are present, it is vital to see a doctor for early diagnosis.

Although the exact cause is unknown, certain factors may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer: 🔹 Smoking and alcohol use 🔹 Obesity and unhealthy eating habits 🔹 Family history of pancreatic cancer 🔹 Chronic pancreatitis (long-term inflammation of the pancreas) 🔹 Diabetes

Methods used to diagnose pancreatic cancer: 📌 Blood Tests: Cancer risk is assessed by measuring tumor markers such as CA 19-9. 📌 Imaging Methods: Abnormalities in the pancreas are detected with ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or PET scans. 📌 Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): The pancreas is examined in detail with the help of an endoscope. 📌 Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the suspicious area to look for cancer cells.

Pancreatic cancer is examined in 4 stages: ✔ Stage 1: Cancer is limited to the inside of the pancreas. ✔ Stage 2: Cancer has spread outside the pancreas but limited to the lymph nodes. ✔ Stage 3: Cancer has spread to nearby vessels and nerves. ✔ Stage 4: Cancer has spread to the liver, lungs, or other distant organs (metastasized). Pancreatic cancer diagnosed at an early stage may have a higher chance of being cured.

Yes, but the success of the treatment depends on the stage of the cancer. In cases diagnosed at an early stage, the chance of a full recovery increases with surgery, while in advanced stages, the aim is to control the disease with chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Treatment options include: ✅ Surgical Intervention: Whipple Surgery (Pancreatoduodenectomy): Surgery to remove tumors located at the head of the pancreas. Distal Pancreatectomy: Removal of tumors located in the tail or body of the pancreas. Total Pancreatectomy: Complete removal of the pancreas (applied in limited cases). ✅ Chemotherapy: Treatment method applied with drugs that kill cancer cells. It is usually used after surgery or in advanced-stage patients. ✅ Radiotherapy: It shrinks tumor cells with high-energy rays. It can be applied as supportive treatment before or after surgery. ✅ Targeted Therapy: Treatment with drugs that target certain features of cancer cells. ✅ Immunotherapy: Helps the body fight cancer cells by strengthening the immune system.

Although it is not possible to completely prevent pancreatic cancer, you can take the following steps to reduce your risk: ✔ Quit smoking and drinking alcohol. ✔ Maintain a healthy and balanced diet. ✔ Avoid processed foods and consume foods rich in antioxidants. ✔ Maintain your ideal weight by exercising regularly. ✔ Keep risk factors such as diabetes and pancreatitis under control.

The diet of patients undergoing pancreatic cancer treatment is very important. Here are some suggestions: 🥗 Eat small and frequent meals. 🥦 Choose protein-rich and light foods. 🚰 Drink plenty of water to facilitate digestion. 🍩 Avoid excessively sugary and fatty foods. 🫗 Get the nutrients your body needs with liquid supplements.

Yes. Pancreatic cancer can be an emotionally challenging process for both the patient and their loved ones. Getting psychological support increases patient compliance with treatment and improves their quality of life. Joining patient support groups and getting support from a psychologist/psychiatrist can be very beneficial during this process.