What are the most effective treatment options for pancreatic cancer?

In this article below, distinguished consultant general and gastrointestinal surgeon, Mr Neville Menezes, gives us an overview of pancreatic cancer, including the symptoms, causes, and treatment options. 

What is pancreatic cancer, and what are the symptoms?

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas, a gland located behind the stomach that helps regulate blood sugar and produce enzymes for digestion. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can include abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), loss of appetite, and nausea.

What are the causes of pancreatic cancer?

The causes of pancreatic cancer are not fully understood, but risk factors include smoking, being over 60, a family history of the disease, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and chronic pancreatitis.

How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?

Pancreatic cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests (such as CT or MRI scans) and biopsies.

What are the treatment options for pancreatic cancer?

Treatment options for pancreatic cancer can include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The choice of treatment will depend on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health.

What is biliopancreatic surgery and how is it used to treat pancreatic cancer?

Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS) is a weight loss surgery and a type of bariatric surgery. This surgery is not commonly used for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, but instead is used primarily to treat obesity.

What support is there for those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer? 

I am one of the trustees of this charity. I also run a RADS clinic (rapid access diagnostic clinic) for aggressive cancers (liver/oesophageal, liver, pancreatic) prioritising recent cancer diagnosis. The main aim is a quick prognosis for better recovery rate/longer life.

If you wish to book an appointment with Mr Neville Menezes today, simply visit his Top Doctors profile today.