Pancreatic Cancer —
Expertise at Every Stage.
A comprehensive guide to pancreatic cancer — from understanding the disease to diagnosis, staging, and treatment — by Dr. Aditya Sarin, ESMO Board Certified Medical Oncologist.
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease that starts in the pancreas — an organ located behind the stomach that plays a vital role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. The pancreas produces enzymes to aid digestion and hormones like insulin to control blood sugar levels. When cancerous cells form in the pancreas, they can grow aggressively and spread to other parts of the body.
Types of Pancreatic Cancer
Exocrine Tumors
90% of cases- Adenocarcinoma — The most common type, starting in the pancreatic ducts.
- Acinar Cell Carcinoma — A rare type affecting enzyme-producing cells.
Endocrine Tumors (PNETs)
Less Common- Arise from hormone-producing cells — may be benign or malignant.
- Insulinomas, Glucagonomas, Gastrinomas.
Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer often shows no symptoms in the early stages, making early detection difficult. As the disease progresses, the following symptoms may appear:
Causes & Risk Factors
While the exact cause of pancreatic cancer is unknown, several factors significantly increase the risk:
Smoking
A major modifiable risk factor for pancreatic cancer.
Age
More common in people over 60 years of age.
Family History & Genetics
BRCA mutations and hereditary syndromes increase risk.
Chronic Pancreatitis
Long-term inflammation of the pancreas raises risk.
Obesity & Poor Diet
High-fat diets and obesity are linked to higher risk.
Diabetes
Long-standing or newly developed diabetes can be a risk factor.
Excessive Alcohol
Can lead to chronic pancreatitis, increasing cancer risk.
Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer
Since early-stage pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect, doctors use a combination of tests:
- CT Scan / MRI — detailed pancreas imaging
- Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) — tumor visualization
- PET Scan — detects cancer spread
- CA 19-9 tumor marker — indicates cancer presence
- Liver function tests
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Tissue sample analyzed for cancer cells
- EUS-guided fine needle aspiration
- Surgical biopsy when indicated
Stages of Pancreatic Cancer
Localized
Cancer is confined to the pancreas. Best prognosis — surgery may be curative.
Regional
May have spread to nearby lymph nodes. Surgery with adjuvant therapy indicated.
Advanced
Spread to major blood vessels or lymph nodes. Often requires combined therapy.
Metastatic
Spread to distant organs — liver or lungs. Systemic therapy and palliative care.
Treatment Options for Pancreatic Cancer
Treatment depends on the stage, location of the cancer, and the patient's overall health. A multidisciplinary approach delivers the best outcomes.
Surgery
The most effective curative option for early-stage disease.
- Whipple Procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy)
- Distal Pancreatectomy
- Total Pancreatectomy (rarely done)
Radiation Therapy
High-energy beams to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Often combined with chemotherapy or surgery.
Chemotherapy
Drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. Often combined with surgery or radiation for maximum effect.
Targeted Therapy
Attacks specific genes or proteins in cancer cells to stop their growth with greater precision and fewer side effects.
Immunotherapy
Helps the body's immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells — particularly effective in select molecular subtypes.
Palliative Care
Focuses on improving quality of life by managing symptoms like pain, jaundice, and digestion problems in advanced disease.
Life After Pancreatic Cancer Treatment
Regular Follow-Ups
Monitoring for recurrence with imaging and blood marker tests.
Nutritional Support
Dietary adjustments and enzyme supplements to aid digestion and maintain weight.
Managing Diabetes
Many patients develop diabetes after pancreatic surgery — closely monitored and managed.
Emotional Support
Counseling and support groups to help cope with the disease and recovery journey.
Why Choose Dr. Aditya Sarin for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment?
Early detection improves survival rates — book an appointment at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital today.
Expert Oncologists
A team of experienced specialists in pancreatic cancer with ESMO-level training and deep clinical expertise.
Advanced Diagnostics
State-of-the-art imaging, EUS, CA 19-9 testing, and cutting-edge genetic profiling for precise diagnosis.
Comprehensive Treatment
Surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and supportive care — all integrated under one roof.
Personalized Care Plans
Tailored treatment strategies based on each patient's cancer stage, genetics, and overall health profile.
Supportive Care & Rehab
Guidance on nutrition, diabetes management, physiotherapy, and mental well-being post-treatment.
Don't Wait — Early Detection Saves Lives
If you or a loved one has symptoms or risk factors for pancreatic cancer, book a consultation with Dr. Aditya Sarin today.
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