Why is pancreatic cancer coming back to the fore?
Pancreatic cancer has re-emerged in the spotlight after leading to the death of famed American broadcaster Jerry Springer, diagnosed just a few months ago. Cancer has one of the lowest 10-year survival rates of all cancers. According to Cancer Research UK, only 5% of people with the disease live longer than a decade after diagnosis.
The first symptoms… a lifeline
Given the mortality rate of the disease, knowing the symptoms is crucial. According to experts, pancreatic cancer is known as a silent disease due to the symptoms which usually do not appear in the early stages. But researchers have identified two early, little-known symptoms that will help doctors better diagnose the condition. Yellowing of the skin (jaundice) and bleeding from the stomach or intestines are among the most serious symptoms associated with the disease. Researchers have found two lesser-known and under-recognized warning signs of pancreatic cancer: increased thirst and dark yellow urine. These symptoms were identified in a study last year.
What did the experts say?
Oxford University data scientist Dr Weichi Liao said: ‘When pancreatic cancer is diagnosed early, patients have a better chance of survival,’ according to the British newspaper ‘Mirror’. “Patients may be diagnosed when they see their GP, but both patients and GPs should be aware of the symptoms associated with pancreatic cancer,” Liao says. Pippa Corey, consultant oncologist at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, said: “Recognizing early symptoms of pancreatic cancer is essential if we are to diagnose patients earlier and improve disease survival.”
More symptoms
There was a long list of other symptoms that were also identified in the study last year, including:
Swallowing problems Diarrhea Change in bowel habits Vomiting Indigestion Abdominal mass Abdominal pain Weight loss Constipation Fat in the stool Flatulence Nausea Flatulence Heartburn Fever Tiredness Loss of appetite Itching Back pain
How to reduce the risk of infection?
People can reduce their risk of developing cancer by:
Reduce red and processed meat Maintain a healthy weight Not smoke Reduce alcohol consumption
It is stated that people over 75 are likely to be more susceptible to pancreatic cancer, which is not common in people under 40, according to the British National Health Service.
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