Veteran playback singer and ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas passed away on Monday (February 26) after a prolonged illness. He was undergoing treatment at Breach Candu Hospital and breathed his last at 11 AM yesterday. Reportedly, the singer was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a few months back. Pancreatic Cancer poses significant challenges as it is often diagnosed in its advanced stages, limiting treatment options, especially since surgery becomes unfeasible at this point.
Causes Of Pancreatic Cancer:
Pancreatic Cancer is primarily linked to smoking and alcohol consumption.
Dr. Tushar Patil, who is a Senior Consultant – Medical Oncologist, at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, Pune said, “The occurrence of Chronic Pancreatitis, characterised by inflammation and inactivity in a section of the pancreas, can lead to the development of cancer over time.”
The Pancreas is anatomically divided into three parts: the Head, connected to the intestines; the Body; and the Tail.
Dr. Patil said, “Cancer most commonly emerges in the Pancreatic Head, causing inflammation in the intestines and exerting pressure on the liver tubes, resulting in jaundice- an early indicator of Pancreatic Cancer.”
“Hence, in some instances, the initial focus of treatment is on addressing jaundice before proceeding to address the Pancreatic Cancer itself,” he added.
Symptoms And Treatment Of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer, often referred to as a silent killer, presents a daunting challenge in both diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms are often subtle or nonexistent until the disease has progressed to advanced stages, making early detection difficult.
However, Dr Sreenivass B J, medical oncologist, HCG Cancer Hospital, Bangalore mentioned some common symptoms that include abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, and digestive issues.
Once diagnosed, treatment options vary depending on the stage and severity of the cancer.
Talking about the treatment options, he said that surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy are among the primary treatment modalities employed.
“However, the prognosis for pancreatic cancer remains generally poor, with a low five-year survival rate. Research into more effective treatment approaches and early detection methods is ongoing, offering hope for improved outcomes in the future. Genetic mutation testing such as BRCA mutation testing is recommended currently and if positive, they can be treated with PARP inhibitors as targeted maintenance therapy,” he added.
It’s imperative for individuals to remain vigilant of any potential symptoms and seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and diagnosis.
Changing the face of modern treatment, AI has emerged as a powerful tool for cancers as well. Dr. Arjun Kalyanpur, who is the Co-founder and Chief Radiologist at Telerad Group said, “AI-powered algorithms are playing a crucial role in analyzing complex medical images, including CT scans and MRIs, for early signs of pancreatic cancer. This technology assists radiologists like myself in identifying subtle abnormalities that might otherwise be missed, potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and improved treatment outcomes.”
Simple Lifestyle Measures For Pancreatic Cancer Prevention
According to statistics, the 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is generally less than 10%, making it one of the most lethal cancers. The prognosis is often poor because pancreatic cancer is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage when the disease has already spread, and effective treatment options are limited.
Dr. Sandeep Bartakke who is a Consultant Pediatric Hemato – Oncologist at Surya Mother and child super speciality Hospital, Pune suggested the following lifestyle measures for prevention of pancreatic cancer:
- Balanced Diet: Prioritise a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Cut down on red and processed meats, sugary foods, and saturated fats. A wholesome diet contributes to overall health and minimizes the risk of pancreatic cancer.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes (about 2 and a half hours) of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Physical activity not only helps maintain weight but also reduces inflammation, a factor linked to cancer development.
- Maintain Healthy Weight: Try to maintain a healthy weight by combining a balanced diet with regular exercise. Being overweight or obese is a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking is a leading cause of pancreatic cancer. Quitting smoking is crucial for reducing cancer risk and improving overall health. Seek professional support for an effective termination.
- Quit Alcohol Intake: Alcohol is a leading cause of pancreatic cancer. Quitting alcohol is crucial for reducing cancer risk and improving overall health. Seek professional support for an effective result.
- Stay Hydrated: Adequate water intake is vital for overall health, opt for water or low-calorie beverages over sugary options to stay hydrated.
- Regular Check-ups: Routine check-ups and discussions with healthcare providers are essential. Share family history and personal risk factors to determine suitable screenings for early detection and prevention.
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]
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