Concerns regarding pancreatic cancer are steadily mounting in Chhattisgarh. Many individuals tend to dismiss symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, digestive troubles, and sudden weight loss, often mistaking them for common gas issues or diabetes. However, these very signs can actually serve as early warnings of pancreatic cancer. If the disease is not identified in a timely manner, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body. Therefore, instead of showing complacency when such symptoms appear, it is essential to consult a doctor and undergo proper medical examinations.
Understanding the Pancreas and Its Functions
According to Dr. Alok Agarwal (Laparoscopic General Surgeon), to put pancreatic cancer simply, it is a malignancy that develops in the pancreas. The pancreas is a vital organ in the human body responsible for producing enzymes that aid in food digestion. When the cells of this organ begin to multiply abnormally, cancer can occur. The biggest challenge with this disease is that its symptoms are not easily recognizable during the early stages. Often, patients discover their condition only after the cancer has progressed significantly.
Do Not Ignore Abdominal and Back Pain
A primary indicator among the early symptoms of pancreatic cancer is persistent pain in the abdomen and back. Additionally, jaundice, which involves the yellowing of the skin and eyes, can also serve as an indicator. Some patients experience sudden weight loss accompanied by ongoing digestive issues. Many people continue to take over-the-counter medicines assuming it is just a stomach ache or gas, failing to undergo proper diagnostics. If such discomfort persists continuously, it must not be ignored and checked by a physician immediately.
From Ultrasound to CT Scan for Accurate Detection
Before initiating treatment for pancreatic cancer, making an accurate diagnosis is crucial. This process typically begins with an ultrasound examination. Subsequently, depending on the patient's condition, tests such as an abdominal CT scan, MRI, and MRCP are performed. In certain cases, an endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy may also be required. These diagnostic procedures help determine the exact stage of the cancer and the extent of its spread.
Treatment via Surgery and Chemotherapy in Early Stages
As per Dr. Alok Agarwal, if pancreatic cancer is detected in its early stages, more favorable treatment outcomes can be achieved. The primary modalities used for treatment include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, the specific approach depends heavily on the stage of the cancer. If the cancer has already spread to the liver or other parts of the body, palliative treatment is administered in such cases. The objective here is to minimize the patient's suffering and maintain a better quality of life.
Cancer Reaching the Liver in Most Patients
According to the doctor, approximately 85 percent of the patients who reach out to him already have the cancer spread to their liver. This condition highlights the extreme severity of the illness. Based on statistics shared by him, between April 2022 and June 2026, roughly 17,000 patients have emerged in Chhattisgarh alone. Meanwhile, across India, nearly 17,000 new pancreatic cancer cases are reported annually, with around 13,000 individuals losing their lives to the disease each year. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking medical advice promptly remains vital for survival.
