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8 Things you need to know about breast cancer

October is Breast Cancer Month and there’s pink wherever you look! While there are lifestyle changes that can lower your chances of getting breast cancer, the real message is simple: early detection is often the difference between life and death, and awareness is everything.

And what if you do find a lump? We asked Dr Eugen Jooste, General Radiologist and Chairman of the Breast Imaging Society of South Africa, some practical questions. Here are the answers:

1. What happens during a mammography, and approximately how long does it take?

Your breasts are compressed in at least two planes so we can get the best possible radiographic images of the breast tissues. More views might be needed to further assess possible abnormalities. The procedure normally takes 4-6 minutes. In most cases a targeted breast ultasound will be done afterwards to check any areas of increased density. If there’s an abnormal finding, we might take a guided biopsy to get tissue for testing.

2. How long before I would get my test results?

It depends on the practice, but breast imaging results can be available within an hour.

3. How long can it take for breast cancer to develop?

Breast cancer comes in various forms and most take several years to grow into a palpable lump. Some of the more aggressive types can develop in a matter of months, but these are exceptions to the rule.

4. Women over the age of 40 are expected to go for a mammogram every 1 – 2 years. If a woman, who just had a mammogram with no sign of breast cancer, suddenly develops breast cancer afterwards, how quickly would it spread?

The more aggressive types are much more likely to spread (metastasise), and some of these are only detected once metastases have occurred. There is no specific time interval associated with likelihood to metastasise.

5. Is the 1 – 2 years between each mammogram close enough for early detection? (Barring self-examination)

Yes, the majority of cancers will be detected under these circumstances and relatively straightforward treatment options will be available.

6. Genetic testing for the BRAC 1 & 2 genes has become quite a popular topic. Is genetic testing available in South Africa and, if it is available, is it accessible to the public?

Yes, genetic testing is available in most large centres in South Africa and is accessible to the public.

7. Are genetic tests covered by medical aid schemes? If not, how much would one have to pay to go for a genetic test?

Most Medical Aids will cover the costs (from savings portion) if cancer diagnosis has not been made yet.

8. What conditions or diseases, other than breast cancer, show up in a mammography or interfere with the image?

Luckily, most lumps and bumps in the breasts are due to non-cancerous causes such as fibroadenomas and cysts. These changes are all influenced by hormonal changes. These should still be checked by biopsy or fluid aspiration to confirm that they aren’t cancerous and to give relief. These can hide subtle signs associated with breast cancer and it takes a lot of experience and skill by the Radiologist and rest of imaging team in order to keep false negative studies to the minimum.

Remember: self-examination and regular health check-ups are your first line of defence. Be well.

Does breast cancer run in your family? Come speak to our doctors about it. Simply sign up on our website and download the free Hello Doctor app from the Google Play or iTunes store. Then you can ask our doctors a question via text or call, anytime, anywhere!

Guys, did you know you can also get breast cancer?

Breast cancer in men accounts for only 1% of all breast cancers, and it’s 100 times more common in women. While the stats are obviously favourable towards men, they’re by no means off the hook.

Everyone is born with a small amount of breast tissue, in females this develops during puberty under the influence of oestrogen but in men it remains unchanged. As a man ages his risk of developing breast cancer increases, and it is most commonly diagnosed in men over the age of 60.

Other risk factors of male breast cancer include:

  • Oestrogen exposure: due to medication (for example treatment for prostate cancer), liver disease (the balance between testosterone and oestrogen is upset), testicular trauma or infection (reduced testosterone levels)
  • History of radiation exposure of the chest
  • Family history of breast cancer in a close female relative
  • A rare genetic condition called Klinefelter’s syndrome
  • Obesity

What to look for

The main symptom of breast cancer in men is a hard lump in one of the breasts, usually painless and located beneath the nipple and areola. It’s important to note that the vast majority of breast lumps are due to a common non-cancerous condition called gynaecomastia. Less common symptoms of male breast cancer can affect the nipple, for example nipple retraction, discharge or a hard and inflamed nipple.

How serious is breast cancer in men?

Comparing the same stages, men and women have similar outcomes with breast cancer – the biggest problem being that breast cancer in men is often diagnosed later than breast cancer in women. This is because although having a smaller amount of breast tissue makes it easier for men to detect an abnormal lump, it also makes it easier for the cancerous cells to spread to the skin and surrounding tissues early on. Coupled with a reduced awareness of the disease in men, diagnosis is often delayed.

Treatment

Physical examinations, mammography, and biopsies are all ways that doctors will diagnose breast cancer. While surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and endocrine therapy are used to treat breast cancer in both men and women, there is one difference: men with breast cancer respond better to hormone treatments than women do.

Sources: NHS, WebMD, MedicineNet.com

Checking your breasts? Here’s how to do it!

Statistics show that women over the age of 50 are more likely to develop breast cancer, but that doesn’t mean younger women aren’t at risk.

Regular breast self-examinations are important for women of all ages, and annual mammograms are recommended for women over the age of 40 or earlier if there’s a family history of the disease. Depending on your circumstance, your doctor will be able to advise you on the best screening protocols for breast cancer. Remember: early detection, diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference when it comes to successful recovery.

It’s recommended that women check their breasts every month. The best time to do this is when you’re in the shower, and when it comes to the time of month, it doesn’t matter as long as it’s not around the time of your period, when your breasts are more likely to be swollen and tender.

Breast Exam Index and Middle fingers

Step 1: Stand in front of a mirror. Look for any changes such as puckering of the nipple, changes in the size or shape of the breast, dimpling, or changes in the skin texture.

Step 2: Look for changes to the shape or texture of your nipples. Gently squeeze each nipple and look for discharge.

Breast Exam right arm up

Step 3: Repeat these steps with your hands on your hips, over your head, and at your side.

Step 4: Raise your right arm and use your left hand to examine every part of your right breast. Using the pads of your index and middle fingers, move in increasingly smaller circles, from the outside in.

Step 5: Gently press and feel for any lumps or thickenings.

Breast Exam Pressing

Step 6: Using body moisturiser if necessary, continue to circle and gently massage the area next to your breast and under your arm.

Step 7: Repeat steps 4 – 6 with the opposite arm and breast.

Step 8: Lie flat on your back, put a pillow under your right shoulder and place your right hand behind your head. Again, gently massage and examine your breast for lumps or any other changes.

Need to know:

Menstruating women should do breast self-examinations a few days after their periods, and women who use oral contraceptives should do it aim to do breast self-examinations on the same day each month.

Important: Notify your doctor immediately if you notice any changes or lumps, or if you have any concerns. Remember, the earlier a problem is detected, the sooner it can be treated.

Beating cancer: one young man’s survival story

Cancer is a disease that begins when genetic changes interfere with your body’s normally ordered process. Cells start to grow uncontrollably, sometimes grouping together to form a mass called a tumor.

Some types of cancer don’t form a tumor. These include leukemias (cancer of the blood), most types of lymphoma (cancer that begins in the network of vessels through which lymph drains from the tissues into the blood), and myeloma (cancer of the plasma cells that usually forms in the bone marrow).

Surviving cancer at a young age

Zhakier Adams is a 21-year-old childhood cancer survivor from Cape Town. He was diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of 13. After a few occasions of losing his balance and not being able to walk or stand for a few minutes, he went for an examination and the doctor diagnosed him with cancer.

Adams was in and out of the hospital for months. For three long years, he endured various treatments which included radiation therapy, chemotherapy, X-rays and blood transfusions.

To date, he had been in remission for four and half years now, which means that tests, physical exams, and scans show no signs of cancer in his body.

With the support of a local cancer foundation, CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation, his parents and his family, he received the support he needed to survive his journey. According to the Cancer Association of South Africa, between 800 to 1 000 children in South Africa are diagnosed with cancer each year. However, it’s estimated that half of the children with cancer in SA, are never diagnosed.

The five childhood cancers in South Africa include:

  • Leukaemia.
  • Lymphoma (tumours that begin in the lymph glands).
  • Brain tumours.
  • Nephroblastomas or Wilms tumours (cancer of the kidneys).
  • Soft tissue sarcomas (tumours that begin in the connective tissue).

Dealing with cancer in the family

Your loved ones and friends will be significantly affected by changes that come with a cancer diagnosis.

Tips to help cope with a loved one’s cancer diagnosis:

  • Talk to each other about everything that’s happening.
  • Ask the doctor questions at your next appointment. Write down the doctor’s instructions and advice if necessary.
  • Be prepared for your loved one’s behaviour and mood to change. Medications, discomforts, and stress can make the person depressed or angry.
  • Encourage your family member to be active and independent to help regain a sense of self-reliance and confidence.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask other family members and friends for help. They will appreciate the opportunity.
  • Be sure to also take care of yourself. Get enough sleep and eat right. It’s hard to offer help when you’re feeling fatigued yourself.

References:

 

Brain cancer 101

When you go online and search possible causes for headache, nausea, dizziness, one of the diagnoses that is bound to come up, is brain cancer. Although brain cancer is very rare, there are some risk factors, and ways to make sure that dull ache is not just another tension headache.

Types of brain cancer

Cancer can begin in the cells of the brain and spread throughout our central nervous system, or it can spread to the brain from elsewhere in the body. Tumours that start in the brain are called primary tumours, cancers that spread to the brain are called secondary tumours.

There are two types of primary brain tumours: benign and malignant.

Benign tumours are not cancerous. These can be removed by surgery or other treatments. However, even if a tumour is non-cancerous, it can still place pressure on healthy brain cells, causing problems.

Malignant tumours are cancerous. They grow faster than benign tumours and spread through the central nervous system more aggressively. They’re very difficult to treat and statistics suggest that only around 35% of sufferers survive for longer than five years.

Other common brain cancers are meningiomas and gliomas.

Meningiomas


These tumours occur in the meninges, which are the membranes that surround your brain and is the most common type of brain cancer. Meningiomas are slow growing which means that symptoms take time to appear. Since these tumours affect nerves, they can sometimes cause seizures or difficulty thinking or remembering. Meningiomas are more common in women and older people, but can develop at any age.

Gliomas


Gliomas can occur in the brain and in other places in the nervous system, including the brain stem and spinal column. While these are more common in men, they make up around 80% of all malignant brain tumours in adults.

What causes brain cancer?


While no-one is quite sure what causes cancer, there are factors that can increase the chance of it developing. These include:

  • Age: Children and older adults are at greater risk.
  • Gender: Men are more at risk of tumours than women, but women are more likely to develop meningioma.
  • Chemical exposure: Being exposed to certain chemicals, like pesticides, may increase the risk of developing a brain tumour.
  • Family history: About 5% of brain tumours may be caused by genetic factors or disorders.
    Exposure to infections, viruses, and allergens: Infection from the virus that causes mononucleosis or “mono” may increase brain cancer risk. Research done on animals has found that exposure to certain viruses also increases risk.
  • Race and ethnicity: Studies in the United States show that white people are more likely to develop gliomas, and black people are more likely to develop meningioma.
  • Radiation: Exposure to radiation, including X-rays, through treatment to the brain or head has been shown to be play a role.
  • Head injury: Research has shown a link between head injury and meningioma, but not for glioma.

Symptoms of brain cancer


Symptoms can include:

  • Seizures.
  • Changes in, or difficulty with speech, hearing or vision.
  • Difficulty balancing or walking.
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in parts of the body.
  • Memory difficulties.
  • Personality changes.
  • Difficulty concentrating.
  • Nausea.
  • Dizziness.

Treating brain cancer

Surgery

Less invasive surgery is often the first option, especially for benign tumours that aren’t bound to brain cells.

Neurosurgery


This kind of surgery is conducted on the nervous system – the brain, spinal cord and other parts of the nervous system – and is used to remove the entire tumour.

Radiation therapy


This treatment destroys brain tumour cells to relieve symptoms caused by the tumour.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is used for difficult-to-treat tumours and can be used on its own or in conjunction with other brain cancer treatments. 

Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy involves using drugs that affect abnormalities in the cells that assist brain tumour growth.

References

What is bowel cancer?

Cancer is when abnormal cells in your body begin to divide and grow uncontrollably. These cells can grow into your organs and tissues, spreading to different areas in your body.

Bowel cancer is when cancer starts to grow in your large bowel (colon) or the back passage (rectum). Common symptoms of bowel cancer include:

  • Blood in your stools for no obvious reason.
  • Changing bowel habits. For example, going to the toilet less or more often.
  • Persistent lower tummy pain, bloating and discomfort.
  • A loss of appetite.

Who is at risk?

Both men and women can get bowel cancer and it’s most common in older people. The risk factors for getting bowel cancer include age, genetics, family history, and diet and lifestyle.

Bowel cancer can occur in different parts of the bowel:

Rectal cancer

This kind of bowel cancer starts in the rectum (large bowel). The rectum is where stool is stored until it’s ready to leave your body.

Anal cancer

This cancer starts in your anus, the opening at the end of your large bowel. The anus is also where poo leaves your body.

Small bowel cancer

Your small bowel is found between your tummy and large bowel.

When bowel cancer spreads

Bowel cancer can spread to other parts of the body. It does this by moving through the lymphatic system which forms part of your immune system. A common place for bowel cancer to spread to is the lymph nodes found in the tummy.

It may also move to other places in your body through the bloodstream. For example, the liver can be easily affected as the blood flows directly here from the bowel. The lungs or bones can also be affected, although this is less common.

How to detect bowel cancer

There are two kinds of screening tests that can check if you have bowel cancer. Getting tested or screened can prevent cancer as any cancerous growths will be removed. If you have bowel cancer already, getting screened can lower your chances of serious consequences

  • If you’re between the ages of 60 to 74, a faecal occult blood test (FOB) is recommended at least every two years. There are home kits available that can collect a stool sample to be checked too.
  • A bowel scope screening is offered to men and women aged 55 and older. It involves using a thin, flexible instrument to look inside the lower part of your bowel.

Good to know

  • See your doctor if you’ve experienced one or more symptoms for more than four weeks.
  • Your doctor may do some tests. For example, he may check your tummy and bum for any lumps.
  • He may suggest a screening if he finds any bumps.

References:

Fighting cancer with Polio!

Every year, 12 million people worldwide will hear the words “you have cancer”. There are few illnesses as terrifying as cancer. With one in four South Africans being affected in their lifetime, it is almost impossible to remain untouched by the disease.

Why haven’t we found a cure for cancer?

Cancer starts when cells start to grow abnormally, get out of control and begin to crowd out normal cells. These abnormal cells also start to invade other tissues. Together, this makes it hard for the body to work the way it should.

“Cancer” is not just one disease, it’s a group of over 100 different conditions. While there are some similarities between the different types of cancer, there are also many differences. This is one of the main reasons that experts have yet to identify an umbrella “cure” for the disease. That’s not to say they aren’t trying! Every year, new research and techniques are developed that bring us one step closer to conquering the condition. The most recent discovery: using Polio cells to fight off cancer.

Why use polio to fight cancer?

Researchers have discovered, using mice cells, that polio can trigger an immune system reaction that not only destroys cancerous tumour growth, but also stops tumours from coming back.

How does it work?

Polio is a virus, which means it invades other cells and takes over that cell’s operating machinery. Some cancerous cells have a specific protein that acts as a “receptor” for the polio virus. That means that the polio virus is attracted to these cells and can invade them. In this experiment, the researchers identified two ways in which polio initiates an attack on the cancer cells.

Once the polio virus invaded the cancerous cells, they started producing substances called “antigens”, or toxins that the body doesn’t recognise which initiated an initial immune response. At the same time, the polio virus infected helper cells of the immune system. These infected cells activated a direct attack on the cancerous cells, and triggered the release of macrophages, whose job it is to rid the body of any debris and foreign substances.

These two processes destroyed the tumour, and weakened the cancerous cells which stopped them from regrowing.

Isn’t polio dangerous?

In its original form, yes! But scientists have created a so called “Frankenstein” version of the virus. They managed to break the polio virus down into its basic elements. Then they took out the “dangerous” piece, and replaced it with a harmless piece. This new modified virus can’t cause paralysis or death because it can’t reproduce in normal cells. But in cancer cells it does and, in the process of replicating, it releases the toxins that poison the cell.

What does this mean to you?

This is certainly a ground-breaking, and very promising, discovery but don’t expect to be able to get your Frankenstein-Polio jab at your local pharmacy any time soon. The findings of this study provide only a basis for further clinical trials and a new avenue to explore in the fight against cancer.

In the meantime, there is much that you can do to lower your risk of cancer. It is estimated that most cancer cases are caused by certain lifestyle choices. Of course, choosing a healthy lifestyle is not a 100% guarantee against ever being diagnosed with cancer, but it does significantly improve your odds! Here is what you can do:

  • Don’t smoke. Ever. If you do, consider giving up ASAP
  • Eat a healthy diet. This includes limiting all processed foods, and increasing fresh produce
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is an important risk factor not only for cancer, but for several other health conditions too
  • Every day if you can!
  • Stay safe in the sun. Use sunblock every day, cover up and stay indoors over peak hours (11am-3pm)
  • Avoid risky behaviours. Always practise safe sex and never share needles
  • Know your health! Get regular check-ups. Contact one of our doctors who can talk you through what tests are recommended for your age and gender

References

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319467.php

The main causes of colon cancer

Cancer truly is “the great equalizer” and it affects people of all ages, races, and socio-economic backgrounds. Cancer colon is no exception, and because it doesn’t usually have symptoms until it’s at a late stage it’s considered to be one of the most dangerous cancers a person can get.
Colon cancer develops over a long period of time, and it can’t be detected unless a person goes for regular colonoscopies. So, if you have a family history of this type of cancer, or your lifestyle contributes to the development of it, then it’s very important that you speak to your doctor about getting regular tests for it.

All cancers are caused when the cells mutate or divide too quickly, and then clump together to form a tumour. In the colon, when cells in the inner lining of the bowels clump together, they can form polyps, although these don’t necessarily develop into colon cancer.
We sat down with Hello Doctor’s Dr. Albert and spoke to him about what increases a person’s risk of developing colon cancer. He reminded us that as with most cancers, doctors don’t know exactly what causes colon cancer, but it’s thought that a number of high risk factors contribute to it, namely:

1. Genetics 

Genetics is perhaps the number one contributing risk factor for the development of colon cancer, and it’s estimated that around 20% of people who are diagnosed with colon cancer have immediate family members or secondary (cousins, aunts, uncles) family member who have or had colon cancer. So, even if you haven’t been diagnosed with this type of cancer, if you have a history of it in your family then it’s very important that you go for regular screenings. The earlier colon cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better. It’s also important to remember that negative diet and lifestyle factors also increase your risk of developing colon cancer, so if you are at risk there are a number of steps you can take to help reduce your risk.

2. Certain health conditions

Digestive disorders such as Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis increase your risk of developing colon cancer. Although both of these diseases are incurable, there are numerous treatments available to help control symptoms.

3. Diet and lifestyle

The link between diet and lifestyle related diseases has been recognised for some time, and although doctors aren’t exactly certain which foods influence the risk of cancer, they have found carcinogens in charred meat (meat that’s been burned). A carcinogen is any substance that’s directly involved in causing cancer, so for this reason we strongly recommend that you reduce the amount of meat you eat, especially red meat. To help maintain a healthy colon and digestive system, stick to a diet that’s high in fibre and low in saturated fats, as this can help lower your risk of developing colon cancer.

4. Smoking

Smoking isn’t just a risk factor for colon cancer, it’s a major risk factor for all types of cancers and diseases. Whether you’re a chain smoker or “just a social smoker”, the sooner you can kick your smoking habit the better. Smokers have a 25% higher risk of developing cancer than non-smokers!

5. Being overweight

Obesity is also a risk factor for colon cancer, and obese men are 50% more likely to develop colon cancer, compared to men who have a healthy BMI (body mass index.) Overweight women are also at risk, however they have a slightly lower risk than men. A (read: inactive!) sedentary lifestyle is also linked to an increased risk of colon cancer, but the good news is you don’t have to become a fanatical gym bunny to reduce your risk. All it takes is 30 minutes of exercise a day to improve your overall health. Walking, running, swimming, cycling – they’re all great options!

If you’re looking for more information, or have a specific question about colon cancer, then remember you can talk to one of our doctors right now. Simply download the FREE Hello Doctor mobile app, and register for our services.

Our doctors are available 24/7, 365 days a year!

Sources:

Common cancers, and how to prevent them

The word “cancer” can strike immediate fear into anyone’s heart. This disease, responsible for millions of deaths is frightening and deserves its big bad reputation. A new report by the Macmillan Cancer Support Organization in the UK reveals that it’s now more common for a person to be diagnosed with cancer than to get married, have a first child or earn a university degree.

Sounds dire, but the purpose of the study by the charity Life with Cancer, was to demystify and diminish the fear around cancer.

Lynda Thomas, chief executive of Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Being told you have cancer changes your life and it can leave people feeling as if they’ve been thrust into the unknown, bewildered and unprepared. But as more people are being diagnosed it’s important that we’re all better informed.”

Decoding cancer

All cancers involve the abnormal division of cells and the ability to form a tumour or spread cancerous cells to other parts of the body. There are more than 100 types of cancer, each with its own causes, symptoms and treatment.

Examples include breast, prostate, liver, lung and stomach cancer. These account for about 80% of all cancers, of which breast cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute in America, is the most common. South African statistics too bear this out.

Breast cancer is uncontrolled growth of cells in the breast. These cells eventually form a tumour that can be felt as a lump or seen under an X-ray.
Look out for: A lump in the breast, unusual change in the breasts, bloody nipple discharge, breast or nipple pain, nipple retraction (turning inward), skin irritation or dimpling, swelling of breast or parts of it.
Prevention: Lifestyle changes can reduce your risk. Keep your weight consistent and stay as fit as possible. Smoking is a no-no so quit immediately. When it comes to alcohol, less is more. What you eat is also important. A study in Japan found that a plant-based diet could cut the risk of developing breast cancer by 15%. Load your plate with plenty of vegetables, eat as little sugar as possible and stay away from processed foods (cold meats, packaged convenience foods).

Lung cancer is an uncontrollable growth of cells in one or both lungs. These cells interrupt the normal function of lungs and can form a tumour. Cancer can begin through alternation of DNA sequence, caused by environmental factors, smoking, and breathing in particles such as asbestos.
Look out for: A persistent cough that may be accompanied by blood or an unusual amount of mucous. Frequent episodes of pneumonia and bronchitis, chest pain, wheezing breathing, a hoarse or raspy voice, headaches and weight loss could be early signs. Smokers are more at risk here.
Prevention: Avoid smoking completely, and secondhand smoke. Stay clear of toxic chemical exposure (radon gas and carcinogens). Exercise regularly to improve lung function. It’s also worth overhauling your diet to include more fruit and vegetables, as these are natural sources of vitamins and nutrients. There’s promising research that suggests that broccoli and brussel sprouts could lower your risk by 40%. Go greens!

Cervical cancer affects the entrance to the uterus. Cancer of the cervix is most often associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) which is a common sexually transmitted infection.
Look out for: Bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, discomfort during sex, smelly vaginal discharge and frequent pelvic pain.
Prevention: Always practise safe sex and look into getting the HPV vaccine. If you smoke, quit. Smoking is a big risk factor for cervical cancer. A Pap smear is your early indicator with this type of cancer. It needs to be done every other year (by a doctor or gynaecologist) and it is specifically designed to check for early warning signs of cancer. If caught early, survival rates are good.

Skin cancer occurs very commonly in South Africa, due to our sunny weather conditions. In fact, we have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. And contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t just target the light-skinned (although it’s more common). Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. People who live in areas that get high levels of UV radiation are more likely to get skin cancer.
Look out for: Skin changes that include small, smooth, shiny, pale or waxy lumps; firm red lumps; a sore or lump that bleeds or develops a crust or a scab; a flat red spot that’s rough, dry, or scaly and may become itchy or tender; and rough, scaly red or brown patches.
Prevention: A tiny amount of sun exposure is good to boost your Vitamin D levels, but anything more than 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure a day is risky. Sunblock is non-negotiable. You need sunblock even when the sun’s not out and a substantial amount to cover all exposed areas.

References

 

Pancreatic cancer: what you need to know

You’ve heard of breast, lung and prostate cancer. But pancreatic cancer? What is it and can you prevent it from happening to you?

First things first: what is the pancreas?
The pancreas is a glandular organ behind your stomach and in front of your spine. Shaped a bit like a flat pear, it’s unique since it produces both enzymes AND hormones. The enzymes it produces help with digestion, and the hormones (like insulin) help control sugar levels in the blood. Fair to say, for an odd-looking organ, it has quite an important role to play!

Pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer happens when cells in the pancreas develop mutations in their DNA. These mutations cause cells to grow uncontrollably and to continue living after normal cells would die. These accumulating cells can form a tumour. Tumours can be either malignant (cancerous), or non-cancerous.

Because there are two different types of cells in the pancreas (those that produce digestive enzymes, and those that produce hormones), there are two different types of pancreatic cancer:

  • Most pancreatic cancer begins in the cells that produce digestive enzymes. This type of cancer is called pancreatic adenocarcinoma or pancreatic exocrine cancer.
  • Rarely, cancer can form in the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas. These types of cancer are called islet cell tumours, pancreatic endocrine cancer and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.

Pancreatic cancer signs and symptoms
Pancreatic cancer is one of those conditions that can sneak up on you gradually, and as such, symptoms of cancer often don’t occur until the disease is advanced. However, here are some important signs to be aware of:

  • Pain, usually in the belly or the back
  • Sudden, unexplained weight loss
  • Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and/or eyes
  • Loss of appetite and/or nausea
  • Feeling constantly tired and exhausted
  • Recent onset of diabetes

There are several other conditions that share similar symptoms. Whether these symptoms mean you have pancreatic cancer or not, they suggest that something is up, and need to be checked by a doctor.

Are you at risk of pancreatic cancer?
Unfortunately, as you get older, your risk of cancer goes up. Most cases of pancreatic cancer are diagnosed in people older than 65. Your risk of pancreatic cancer is also higher if:

  • You have experienced any pancreas problems, for example pancreatitis (inflammation)
  • You have diabetes
  • You have a family history of pancreatic cancer
  • You smoke or are overweight

What you can do TODAY to lower your risk of pancreatic cancer
There is no sure way to prevent pancreatic cancer. Some risk factors such as age and family history can’t be controlled. But there are things you can do that might lower your risk. One study, for example, showed that the combination of smoking, long-standing diabetes and a poor diet increased the risk of pancreatic cancer beyond the risk of any one of these factors alone!

So, what should you do? The key cancer prevention lifestyle habits are:

  • Not smoking
  • Maintaining a healthy body weight
  • Eating a healthy, balanced diet
  • Cutting back on alcohol
  • Staying active
  • Staying safe in the sun

It is estimated that up to 40% of all cancers can be prevented by living a healthy lifestyle. Of course, “healthy living” is not a guarantee against ever getting cancer, but it certainly stacks the odds in your favour!