Pancreatic cancer occurs when cells in the pancreas start to grow abnormally and develop into a malignant tumor. The pancreas is an essential organ situated behind the stomach that produces enzymes to aid digestion and hormones, such as insulin, to regulate blood sugar levels.

Pancreatic cancer is often difficult to detect early because it typically doesn’t cause symptoms until it has advanced or spread to other organs. This makes early diagnosis and proactive management by a specialist crucial.

Types of Pancreatic Tumors

There are two primary types of pancreatic tumors:

Exocrine tumors: These make up the majority of pancreatic cancers. The most common form is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which starts in the ducts that transport digestive enzymes.
Neuroendocrine tumors: These develop from hormone-producing cells in the pancreas and are usually less aggressive than exocrine tumors. However, they can still be serious and need specialized care.

Understanding the tumor type is crucial for determining the most suitable treatment strategy.

Symptoms

Pancreatic cancer might not show symptoms initially, but as the disease advances, patients could experience:

• Abdominal or mid-back pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Light-colored or greasy stools
• Dark urine
• Fatigue and general weakness
• Nausea and vomiting

Since these symptoms can resemble other conditions, they are frequently overlooked. A GI specialist should evaluate persistent or worsening symptoms.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of pancreatic cancer is often unknown, several factors can raise the risk of developing the disease.

  • Smoking: One of the most significant risk factors.
  • Age: Most cases happen in individuals over 60.
  • Family history: Having close relatives with pancreatic or other gastrointestinal cancers raises the risk.
  • Obesity and lack of physical activity
  • A diet high in processed meats and low in fruits and vegetables
  • Chronic diabetes or insulin resistance

Understanding and adjusting these risk factors can help decrease the chance of developing pancreatic cancer.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience persistent abdominal pain, jaundice, or unexplained weight loss, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. A gastroenterologist like Dr. Jay Yepuri is specially trained to identify, diagnose, and treat gastrointestinal cancers, including those of the pancreas.
While a primary care physician can identify general health issues, a GI specialist possesses more advanced training and expertise to provide more accurate assessments, often leading to earlier diagnoses and better treatment options.

Diagnosis and Tests

Dr. Yepuri and his team might use various tools and technologies to diagnose pancreatic cancer, including:

  •  Imaging studies: CT scans, MRIs, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) can help visualize the pancreas and surrounding tissues.
    • Jay Yepuri, MD, is one of the few doctors in DFW trained in the EUS procedure.
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): A technique that allows direct imaging and potential intervention in the pancreatic ducts.
  • Blood tests: These may detect tumor markers such as CA 19-9, which can be elevated in pancreatic cancer.
  • Biopsy: A sample of pancreatic tissue obtained through endoscopic guidance to confirm cancer and analyze tumor type.

Early and precise diagnosis is crucial for increasing survival rates and customizing treatment plans.

Management and Treatment

Pancreatic cancer treatment depends on the cancer’s type, location, and stage at diagnosis. Care plans may include:

  • Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor, such as the Whipple procedure, may be recommended for early-stage, operable cancers.
  • Chemotherapy: Utilized before or after surgery or when surgery is not an option.
  • Radiation therapy: May be combined with chemotherapy to shrink tumors or manage symptoms.
  • Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: For cancers with specific genetic or molecular traits.
  • Palliative care: Focused on symptom relief and maintaining quality of life when curative treatment is not possible.

Dr. Yepuri works closely with oncologists and surgeons to ensure patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

Prevention Recommendations

While not all pancreatic cancers are preventable, adopting healthy lifestyle habits can reduce your risk:

  • Avoid tobacco products entirely
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Limit processed and red meats
  • Exercise regularly
  • Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure

Regular checkups and discussions with your healthcare provider about family history or other risk factors are also important.
If you’re concerned about your risk or experiencing symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay Yepuri’s office by calling 817-267-8470 or online.