Silent Progression: Pancreatic Cancer Can Develop Without Symptoms
Pancreatic cancer is a difficult type of cancer to diagnose and treat, as highlighted by Medicana Health Group General Surgery Specialist Prof. Dr. Taner Oruğ. Emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis, Dr. Oruğ stated that pancreatic cancer is known for its rapid spread and can often progress without showing symptoms in its early stages.
The symptoms of pancreatic cancer include nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, slowly developing jaundice, obstruction, and pain in the stomach outlet. However, by the time these symptoms appear, it may be too late for a successful treatment as the tumor might have already spread outside the pancreas.
Dr. Oruğ further explained that pancreatic cancer surgery is one of the most difficult surgeries for a surgeon to perform. This is due to the complexity and length of the surgery, as well as the long post-operative rehabilitation period and serious complications that may occur. The surgery involves the removal of parts of the stomach, duodenum, small intestine, bile duct, gallbladder, and lymph nodes around the pancreas. In some cases, the entire pancreas may need to be removed, a procedure known as ‘total pancreatectomy’.
According to Dr. Oruğ, the 5-year survival rate after a pancreatic cancer diagnosis is only 5 percent in normal cases. This emphasizes the critical need for early diagnosis and regular doctor check-ups in the fight against pancreatic cancer.
Overall, the statement by Dr. Oruğ sheds light on the challenges posed by pancreatic cancer and the importance of early detection and treatment in improving the prognosis for patients.
