On 21st November, World Pancreatic Cancer Day, let’s look at what practical measures can be taken to reduce our risk of developing pancreatic cancer. We have all heard it said that “prevention is better than cure”. Like all cancers, there are both genetic and lifestyle-based causes of pancreatic cancer.
While it is difficult to control the genetic causes that put us at a higher risk of certain cancers, following a healthy lifestyle is a factor that we can control.
About the Pancreas
The pancreas is a small spongy organ in your abdomen, six to ten inches long. It plays an important role in converting the food we eat into energy for the body. Along with the liver and the gallbladder, it secretes enzymes that help us digest carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
It also secretes two key hormones: insulin to reduce blood sugar levels and glucagon to increase them. Therefore, if the pancreas does not function sufficiently, it affects our ability to digest food and regulate blood sugar.
Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer does not show any symptoms in the early stages. By the time symptoms appear, cancer may have already spread beyond the pancreas.
The most common symptoms include:
- Stomach ache
- Back pain
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Indigestion
- Jaundice
These symptoms may not be immediately diagnosed as cancer. However, if symptoms persist and standard medication is ineffective, it is best to consult a doctor.
Practical Steps to Reduce Risk
Stop Consumption of Tobacco
Smokers are twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer than non-smokers. Cigarette smoking is responsible for almost 25% of all cases of pancreatic cancer. The use of smokeless tobacco also increases the risk.
Quitting smoking not only reduces the risk of pancreatic cancer but also lowers the risk of many other diseases.
Avoid Intake of Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages are considered carcinogens and may lead to cancer. Heavy alcohol use can cause chronic pancreatitis, which in turn increases the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Reducing alcohol consumption results in a lower risk of developing this disease.
Stay Physically Active
Studies show that obesity leads to the development of pancreatic cancer at a younger age and reduces survival duration after diagnosis. Even moderate physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Research shows an inverse relationship between a healthy diet and the risk of pancreatic cancer. A healthy diet includes high intake of vegetables, whole grains, fruits, milk, and beans, along with low intake of salt, saturated fats, and sugar.
Other Factors
Some research suggests a possible link between excessive coffee consumption and pancreatic cancer, though findings are not yet conclusive.
A healthy diet and lifestyle remain the best-known prevention for pancreatic cancer and significantly improve overall health and quality of life.