Find out the warning sign that could indicate pancreatic cancer and how to recognize it to act promptly.
Tumors represent one of the main causes of mortality in the worldwith different forms affecting various organs and tissues of the human body. They can be benign or malignant, with the latter having the ability to metastasize, that is, spread to other parts of the body, complicating treatment and chances of recovery.
A crucial aspect in the fight against tumors is the awareness of symptoms. Each type of tumor has specific signs which, if recognized promptly, can facilitate early diagnosis and more effective intervention.
Early diagnosis is essential for improve the chances of survival. Regular screenings and doctor visits can help detect cancers in early stages, when they are still localized and easier to treat.
Research continues to play a critical role in understanding and treating cancer. New therapies and diagnostic techniques are emerging, offering hope to millions of people affected by cancer.
The first symptom of pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer is known to be one of the forms that are more difficult to diagnose in the initial stages, thus making its care particularly challenging. Often, symptoms appear when the disease is already in an advanced stage, significantly reducing the available treatment options. However, there is one early symptom that could prove crucial for a timely diagnosis and which has already been shown to change the course of the disease in some cases.
A significant example is represented by story by Michael Perlinwho was diagnosed at age 64. An important sign that allowed him to detect the disease early was jaundice, a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. This alteration alerted Perlin, leading him to see a doctor and receive an early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, before the disease progressed further.
Illustration of a pancreatic tumor (Depositphotos PHOTO) – www.biomedicalcue.it
Symptoms and treatment
Jaundicealthough it was the first sign in Perlin’s case, it is not the only symptom that can appear. Other signs to watch for include abdominal pain, dark urine, loss of appetite, fatigue and itchy skin. These symptoms, however, they can easily be confused with different conditionsmaking their immediate identification a challenge.
Perlin’s treatment included a surgery known as Whipple procedurewhich involves removing not only part of the pancreas, but also portions of the small intestine, the bile duct, and, in some cases, part of the stomach. This operation is complex and requires a long period of hospitalization for recovery. Subsequently, Perlin followed a cycle of chemotherapy and radiotherapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Thanks to the early diagnosis, the treatment was much more effective, significantly increasing his chances of recovery. Today, at 70, Perlin has been declared cured of pancreatic cancer and has resumed an active and full life.
