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The pancreas is positioned at the back of the abdomen, whose glands secrete pancreatic enzymes, insulin, and hormones. The pancreas has both exocrine and endocrine glands. Exocrine glands produce the enzymes that aid in the digestion of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Endocrine glands are cells that secrete glucagon and insulin for the management of blood sugar.Therefore, pancreatic cancer is described as exocrine pancreatic cancer or endocrine pancreatic cancer, depending on the affected functions.
Risk Factors
Some factors that may put one at a higher risk of having pancreatic cancer include:
Genetic factors- this includes specific genetic syndromes and hereditary genes
Sex- men are more affected by pancreatic cancer than women
Exposure to particular dyes, chemicals, and pesticides
Age- persons above 60 years are at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, heavy alcohol intake, sedentary lifestyle, and obesity contribute to higher risk
Symptoms
Pancreatic cancer is rarely detected at its initial stages as it does not exhibit symptoms until it reaches its advanced stage. Some of the symptoms include:
Jaundice- This is marked by yellowing of the eyes and skin, darkened urine, itchy skin, light-colored or greasy stool
Back or abdominal pain
Loss of weight and lack of appetite
Nausea and bouts of vomiting
Deep vein thrombosis
Enlargement of the liver or gallbladder
It is crucial for you to visit your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms to eliminate the possibility of pancreatic cancer or conduct further tests that may be life-saving.
Prevention
While pancreatic cancer has a reputation of being silent cancer, there are a few actions that may help keep it away, such as quitting smoking, maintaining healthy body weight, and having a healthy diet rich in grains, fruits, and vegetables.
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