Why is pancreatic cancer a silent killer? Understand the warning signs
Pancreatic cancer is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it tends to exhibit minimal or vague symptoms in its early stages, making it challenging to detect.Â
It is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas, located behind the stomach and helps with digestion and hormone production.Â
Pancreatic cancer is quite prevalent in India, and it is considered to be the 11th most common type of cancer in the country.Â
Dr Ashish Gupta, Chief of Medical Oncology, Unique Hospital Cancer Centre, Dwarka, New Delhi, said that the risk of pancreatic cancer increases due to smoking and an unhealthy lifestyle.Â
The risk factors include smoking, obesity, high intake of red and processed meat and genetic disposition.Â
Pancreatic cancer is quite prevalent in India, and it is considered to be the 11th most common type of cancer in the country. (Photo: Getty Images)
“Understanding and awareness are two important ways to fight pancreatic cancer. It’s about catching it early, providing effective treatments, and supporting patients throughout their journey,” Dr Ashish Gupta told IndiaToday.In.Â
According to Dr Ishu Gupta, a distinguished medical oncologist and director of the Cancer Day Care Center, told IndiaToday.In the silent progression and vague symptoms of pancreatic cancer contribute to late detection, with only 15-20% of cases being operable at diagnosis.
WHY IS PANCREATIC CANCER A SILENT KILLER?
Location: The pancreas is situated deep within the abdomen, making it difficult for early tumours to cause noticeable symptoms or for healthcare professionals to detect them through physical examination.
