What are the risk factor of pancreatic cancer?

Introduction to Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer takes a heavy toll in eastern India, with one of the highest incidence rates in Kolkata. Understanding risk factors and getting optimal treatment close to home can make a difference against this disease. Pancreatic cancer takes a devastating toll in India, with the highest incidence rates in the northeastern states. In Kolkata, pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality. Knowing the risk factors and the latest treatment options available in the city can help save lives. Oncologist in kolkata review imaging, lab tests, and biopsy results to diagnose pancreatic cancer and determine if it has spread beyond the pancreas.

Risk factors of pancreatic cancer

Several factors raise pancreatic cancer risk, some of which are more prominent in the Kolkata region:

• Tobacco Use – Smoking and smokeless tobacco products like gutkha are strongly linked to pancreatic cancer. Quitting can significantly lower risk.
• Diet – Diets high in red meats, processed foods, and heavy fried foods may increase risk. Eating more fruits, vegetables and fiber helps lower chances.
• Diabetes – Long-standing diabetes, especially with poor control, heightens risk. Carefully managing blood sugar can help.
• Cirrhosis – Liver damage from toxins, viruses or alcohol abuse raises this cancer odds. Limiting alcohol intake helps prevent cirrhosis.
• Helicobacter Pylori – This stomach bacterium may spread to the pancreas, provoking cancer. Treatment can eliminate H. Pylori infection.
• Family History – Those with close relatives diagnosed have a higher risk. Genetic counselling may provide insight.
• Obesity – Carrying extra weight around the abdomen increases risk. Losing even a small amount can help.
• Chronic Pancreatitis – Repeated pancreas inflammation is a major risk factor. Limiting alcohol helps prevent flares.

For average-risk individuals, routine cancer screening is not recommended. However, those with multiple risks should discuss potential screening with their doctor.

If this cancer is suspected, specialists will order scans and biopsies to confirm diagnosis and staging. Localized disease may be treated with surgery to remove the tumor, often combined with chemotherapy or radiation.

For advanced cancer, oncologists in Kolkata frequently prescribe chemotherapy with drugs like gemcitabine or FOLFIRINOX as a first step. Second-line options include targeted therapies, immunotherapies, or clinical trials of emerging treatments.

Leading cancer centres in Kolkata

Leading cancer centres in Kolkata offering excellent pancreatic cancer care include HCG eko cancer centre kolkata, Tata Medical Center, AMRI Hospitals, Medica Superspecialty Hospital, and Apollo Gleneagles Hospital.

These facilities provide comprehensive treatment including surgery, chemotherapy, pain management, nutritional support, and emotional counselling. The main goal is to survive this cancer while optimizing comfort and quality of life.

Patients are cared for by experienced, compassionate teams of oncologists, radiation therapists, surgeons, nurses, palliative care specialists, and other experts. State-of-the-art technology, cancer trials, and multidisciplinary coordination allow top-level treatment close to home for Kolkata residents.

Conclusion

This cancer requires urgent attention and support. More research funding and participants are critical to drive discoveries. Campaigns aimed at education, early diagnosis, and comprehensive care for all patients can make a major impact.

Pancreatic cancer patients and their loved ones demonstrate immense courage and resilience. With increased awareness, research commitment, and therapeutic progress, we can turn the tide against this formidable foe. Patients deserve hope and the very best care we can provide.