How to spot pancreatic cancer

PANCREATIC CANCER happens when malignant or cancerous cells grow, divide, and spread in the pancreas. The pancreas is a six-inch-long, spongy, tube-shaped organ located in the back of the abdomen, behind the stomach. It has two major jobs in the body, to make digestive juices (called enzymes) that help break down food, and to make hormones including insulin that control the body’s use of sugars and starches.

Many people often do not have symptoms in the early stages of this disease. However, as the cancer grows and spreads, pain often develops in the upper abdomen and sometimes spreads to the back. The pain may worsen after you eat or lie down. Other symptoms may include jaundice, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, weakness, and depression.

Doctors rarely find pancreatic cancer in its early stages when it is easiest to treat, and that is why it is one of the deadliest cancers. About nine per cent of people with pancreatic cancer live at least five years after diagnosis. However, the five-year survival rate is much better if it has not spread past the pancreas. The survival rates do not predict what will happen to any single person and may not reflect newer types of treatment.

Experts do not know the exact cause of pancreatic cancer. However, certain gene mutations can cause it. Other risk factors include smoking, age (it is usually diagnosed in people older than 45), diabetes, chronic pancreatitis due to a genetic mutation, liver cirrhosis, family history of the condition, obesity, certain chemicals, and race.

It can be hard to find this disease early on. A doctor may not see or feel a small tumour during a routine exam. To help make the diagnosis, you may get imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan. The green area shown in this CT scan appears to be cancer in the pancreas and liver. These studies also help your doctor choose the most appropriate treatment. For a diagnosis, you will get a biopsy, in which your doctor uses a needle or does an operation to take a bit of tissue from the tumour for testing.

People diagnosed with pancreatic cancer often find it difficult to maintain their weight and follow a healthy diet. The pancreas has two main functions: an exocrine function that helps in digestion of food and an endocrine function that regulates blood sugar. Even if patients continue to eat and digest food normally, pancreatic cancer releases compounds into the bloodstream that break down muscle and fat, causing patients to lose weight and muscle mass, as well as feel fatigued.

Chemotherapy, radiation and surgery are treatments available for pancreatic cancer. Regardless of treatment type, pancreatic cancer takes a toll on the body and a person’s ability to maintain a healthy diet and nutrition. Below are some tips patients with pancreatic cancer find helpful to optimise nutrition during and after treatment.

MONITOR AND MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT

It is normal to lose some weight after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and beginning treatment. Excessive weight loss and poor nutrition can cause a decrease in the body’s ability to fight infection and tolerate treatment. To help maintain a healthy weight, weigh yourself weekly, avoid excessive weight loss, and seek help early with your care team to optimise nutrition.

STAY HYDRATED

Drink enough fluid during cancer treatment to prevent dehydration. Aim for eight eight-ounce glasses (64 ounces) per day, to avoid feeling full at mealtime, drink fluids one hour before or after a meal, choose beverages that contain calories and nutrients and avoid excess caffeine and alcohol, which may lead to dehydration.

EAT SMALL, FREQUENT MEALS

Frequent small meals will ensure your body has enough nutrients to tolerate treatment. Smaller meals are often better tolerated when enduring treatment side effects like nausea and lack of appetite. Consider setting an alarm to eat five to six meals per day every three to four hours.

CONSIDER THE USE OF LIQUID SUPPLEMENTS OR SHAKES

As a side effect of treatment, sometimes food becomes less palatable or difficult to digest

When it is difficult to eat, liquids are easier to digest and can often be better tolerated. Be sure these supplements are protein rich.

CHOOSE FOODS THAT ARE EASY TO DIGEST

Side effects of pancreatic cancer treatment can impact digestion. Chopped, soft or boiled foods are easier for the body to digest. Avoid foods like red meat, pork or raw vegetables during times when digestion is a challenge.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.comSOURCE: John Hopkins Medicine; Heath Talk Sunday