Common pancreatic diseases include pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), diabetes (due to malfunctions in insulin production), and cystic fibrosis (which affects the pancreas ability to produce digestive enzymes).
The pancreas, an organ involved in digestion and insulin production. Often asymptomatic in its early stages, pancreatic cancer frequently goes undetected until advanced stages, making early diagnosischallenging. Common symptoms can include abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice, and changes in appetite. Prognosis is generally poor, with a five- year survival rate typically below 10%, largely due […]
Support can come from healthcare teams, cancer support groups, counseling services, and organizations dedicated to liver cancer awareness and research.
Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C can cause long-term inflammation and damage to liver cells, leading to cirrhosis and increasing the risk of developing liver cancer.
Lifestyle changes include avoiding alcohol or drinking in moderation, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding risky behaviors that can lead to hepatitis infection.
People at high risk, such as those with chronic hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, or a family history of liver cancer, should discuss screening options with their healthcare provider.
While not all cases can be prevented, reducing risk factors can help. This includes getting vaccinated against hepatitis B, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, managing diabetes, and avoiding exposure to aflatoxins.
Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, liver transplant, ablation, embolization, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, and immunotherapy.
Liver cancer is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, imaging tests (such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI), and sometimes a liver biopsy.
Symptoms may include weight loss, loss of appetite, upper abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, general weakness and fatigue, an enlarged liver, abdominal swelling, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).