Pancreatic cancer cases are exploding among young people. Dr Shanel Bhagwandin, a gastrointestinal surgeon who specializes in pancreatic and colon cancer, says he’s seeing an alarming increase in pancreatic cancers in young patients.
Dr. Bhagwandin says his patients do not fit the traditional picture of pancreatic patients.
Bhagwandin told the Daily Mail that more of his pancreatic cancer patients are in their forties and fifties – and, in some cases, even younger.
“It’s one of the most concerning trends we’re seeing in clinic,” he said. “These are patients who don’t fit the stereotypical profile.”
“Patients are getting younger, and many of them look otherwise healthy,” he added. “They exercise, they work full time. They don’t fit the picture we were taught to expect.”
For decades, pancreatic cancer was regarded as an older person’s disease. Patients are usually people over 65.
The disease is diagnosed late because the symptoms don’t appear until the cancer is advanced.
Just 12% of pancreatic cancer patients live 5 years after diagnosis. The majority do not survive more than a year.
What’s causing pancreatic cancer in young people?
Doctors believe rising rates of obesity, insulin resistance and early metabolic disease among younger adults may play a role in pancreatic cancers among young people.
Also, the lack of FDA regulation of chemicals and bioengineered ingredients in ultra-processed foods may be playing a role in increasing pancreatic and colon cancer rates in young people.
The pancreas is a large organ that helps aid in digestion and regulates blood sugar. The head of the pancreas lies in the upper right side of your belly between your stomach and spine. The tail of the pancreas extends to the left side of your belly.
Most cancers are diagnosed in the head of the pancreas. 10-15% of pancreatic cancers are diagnosed in the tail.
This graphic provided by the Mayo Foundation shows a cancerous tumor in the head of the pancreas that’s spreading into the small intestine. The tumor blocks the bile duct (green tube) that carries bile from your gallbladder to your small intestine.
Bile is the yellow-green fluid produced by your liver that helps digest fat in the food you eat.
Your eyes and skin turn yellow when bile backs up into your bloodstream because of a tumor blocking the bile duct or liver. Other signs and symptoms are caused by the tumor pressing on nerves and blocking the biliary system.
Signs and Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
When to See a Doctor
There are no early signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer until the cancer has advanced. However, you should see your doctor right away if you experience any of the following:
DISCLAIMER
Medical information published on this blog is for your general information only and is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice. Always consult with your personal physician or a health care provider.
