World Pancreatic Cancer Day 2024: Realising the Power of Awareness and Early Detection

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging cancers, which often goes unnoticed until it has progressed to an advanced stage. Every year thousands of people worldwide are affected by pancreatic cancer; yet, due to a lack of awareness about it, most of the patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage. World Pancreatic Cancer Day was initiated to bridge this gap. The day reminds us to understand this silent killer and take proactive steps that can help detect it at an early stage. This year, let’s empower ourselves and others with knowledge, compassion, and action to help diagnose pancreatic cancer as early as possible, and improve survival rates.

What is World Pancreatic Cancer Day?

World Pancreatic Cancer Day is observed every year on the 3rd Thursday of November, as part of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, an annual global healthcare event that highlights the importance of understanding the disease, recognizing early symptoms, and supporting research efforts aimed at improving diagnosis, treatment, and survival rates. WPCD aims to educate people on the importance of early detection, promote preventive measures, and enhance the quality of life for those impacted by this disease. On this day, individuals and organisations from around the world come together to share information and personal stories, and support funding research initiatives aimed at improving treatments for pancreatic cancer and facilitating access to quality care..

Theme for WPCD 2024

For World Pancreatic Cancer Day 2024, the theme continues from last year, which is “Hello Pancreas”. The theme focuses on educating people about the pancreas' role in the human body, the risks and early signs of pancreatic cancer, and the importance of early detection. This year, however, the World Pancreatic Cancer Coalition (WPCC), a global patient advocacy organisation that works to improve the lives of people affected by pancreatic cancer, will use new messaging and videos to continue the theme.

What is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the pancreas, an organ located behind the lower part of the stomach, which secretes enzymes that aid digestion, and hormones that help regulate blood sugar levels in the body. Pancreatic cancer is classified into two main types:

1. Exocrine pancreatic cancer: This is the more common type of pancreatic cancer, which typically originates from the cells that produce digestive enzymes. The most prevalent subtype is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which accounts for about 85% of all cases. It typically begins in the ductal cells of the pancreas and is known for its aggressive nature and tendency to metastasize early.
2. Endocrine pancreatic cancer: This is a less common type of pancreatic cancer, and it involves tumours that arise from the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas, known as islet cells. These tumours can be functional (producing excess hormones) or non-functional (not producing hormones). Examples include insulinomas and glucagonomas.

Stages of Pancreatic Cancer

Boradly, pancreatic cancer has four stages:

1. Stage I: In this stage, the cancer is localised (within the pancreas) and has not spread, and may be resectable (removable by surgery). This stage can be further divided into:
• Stage IA: The tumour is 2 cm or smaller.
• Stage IB: The tumour is larger than 2 cm.
2. Stage II: The cancer may have spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, and it is further classified into:
• Stage IIA: No lymph nodes are involved, but the tumour may have grown into nearby structures.
• Stage IIB: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
3. Stage III: The cancer has spread to major blood vessels and lymph nodes near the pancreas but not to distant sites. It indicates a more advanced cancer that is usually unresectable (not removable by surgery).
4. Stage IV: This stage indicates that the cancer has metastasized to distant organs, such as the liver, lungs, or other parts of the body. This stage has the most severe prognosis.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer often starts with mild symptoms that can be easily overlooked or mistaken for other minor health issues. Here are some common symptoms associated with pancreatic cancer:

• Abdominal Pain: Patients may experience discomfort or pain in the abdomen, which may radiate to the back. This pain can be persistent or intermittent, and may worsen after eating.
• Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss is common in pancreatic cancer and can occur due to a combination of factors, such as loss of appetite and malabsorption of nutrients.
• Loss of Appetite: Many individuals with pancreatic cancer report a decreased desire to eat, which can contribute to weight loss and malnutrition.
• Jaundice: The development of jaundice, characterised by yellowing of the skin and eyes, can occur when the cancer blocks the bile duct, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood.
• New-Onset Diabetes: Some patients may experience a sudden onset of diabetes or worsening of existing diabetes.
• Fatigue: Patients with pancreatic cancer may have persistent fatigue or weakness, which often stems from the body’s response to the disease.
• Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms can arise due to changes in digestion and the presence of a tumour that may block the gastrointestinal tract.
• Changes in Stool: Stools may become pale, greasy, or float due to insufficient fat digestion, a result of the pancreas not producing enough digestive enzymes.

Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer

Here are the key risk factors associated with pancreatic cancer:

• Smoking: Cigarette smoking significantly increases the risk of pancreatic cancer. Compared to nonsmokers, smokers are at 2-3 times higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese may also increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. This could be due to hormonal changes and chronic inflammation associated with excess body fat.
• Age: The risk of developing pancreatic cancer increases with age, particularly after 65 years. This could be due to the cumulative effect of various age-related factors.
• Family History and Genetic Factors: A family history of pancreatic cancer increases the risk, especially if multiple relatives have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Certain inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA2 and other genes related to hereditary pancreatitis, are also associated with an increased risk.
• Chronic Pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation of the pancreas, known as chronic pancreatitis, is linked to a higher risk of pancreatic cancer, particularly in individuals with hereditary forms of the condition.
• Diabetes: New-onset diabetes, especially in older adults, may signal the onset of pancreatic cancer, while long-standing diabetes can also increase the risk.
• Diet: Diets high in red and processed meats, and low in fruits and vegetables, may be linked to pancreatic cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption has been associated with chronic pancreatitis, which increases the risk of pancreatic cancer.
• Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to obesity and related health issues, thereby increasing the risk of pancreatic cancer.

How does Pancreatic Cancer affect a Person's Life?

Pancreatic cancer can impact a person's life in several significant ways:

Physical Health Challenges

Patients with pancreatic cancer often face symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, jaundice, and substantial weight loss, which can severely impact their overall quality of life. Additionally, the side-effects of treatment, such as fatigue and nausea, can further add to their problems.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

The emotional burden of getting diagnosed with pancreatic cancer can lead to anxiety, depression, and fear about the future. Many individuals struggle with uncertainty regarding their prognosis and treatment outcomes, which can lead to a decline in mental health. The psychological stress of navigating a cancer diagnosis often requires mental health support.

Financial Strain

The financial implications of treating pancreatic cancer can be significant. Medical expenses for treatments, consultations, and medications can quickly accumulate, often leading to financial stress for patients and their families. The potential loss of income due to the inability to work adds another layer of financial difficulty, making it challenging to manage both treatment costs and everyday living expenses.

Social Isolation

Many patients experience social withdrawal due to their physical limitations and emotional distress. They may find it difficult to engage in social activities, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. This disconnection from friends and family can compound the emotional challenges they face during their cancer journey.

Diagnosis for Pancreatic Cancer

Diagnosing pancreatic cancer can be particularly challenging due to the often vague and non-specific symptoms associated with the disease, which often lead to late-stage diagnosis. When pancreatic cancer is suspected, a combination of tests is used for diagnosis:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: The diagnosis typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination of the patient, where a doctor assesses their symptoms and risk factors.
2. Imaging Tests:
• Ultrasound: Used to get detailed images of the pancreas and nearby organs, to detect tumours or abnormalities.
• CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: Use to get detailed cross-sectional images of the abdomen, allowing for a clearer view of the pancreas and any potential tumours.
• MRI: This imaging method uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the pancreas and identify tumours.
• PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scan: These scans can show metabolic activity and help determine if a tumour is cancerous and assess its spread.
3. Blood Tests:
• CA 19-9: This is a tumour marker that is often elevated in individuals with pancreatic cancer. However, the findings of this test are not conclusive, as CA 19-9 can also be elevated in other conditions.
• Liver Function Tests: These tests assess the health of the liver and can indicate if the cancer has spread.
4. Biopsy: To confirm the presence of cancer, a tissue sample may be taken through methods such as:
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): Performed during an EUS to extract cells from a tumour.
• Endoscopic Biopsy: This can be done during an endoscopy if a tumour is accessible.
5. Genetic Testing: If there is a family history of pancreatic cancer, genetic testing may be performed to identify mutations that could increase risk.

When to See a Doctor?

It is important to see a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms that could indicate pancreatic cancer, especially if you have a family history of the disease. Key symptoms to watch for include unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), changes in appetite, or new-onset diabetes. If you have these symptoms, particularly if they last for more than a few weeks, seeking medical advice immediately can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment. Consult your doctor for personalised guidance based on your health history and risk factors.

Conclusion

Knowledge about pancreatic cancer, including its symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options, is important for early diagnosis and improved outcomes. If you or a loved one is experiencing any concerning symptoms, waste no time in consulting a specialist. At Max Hospitals, we are committed to providing comprehensive cancer care and support, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible treatment and guidance throughout their treatment journey. Book an appointment with one of our specialists, today.