Diabetes and Pancreatic Cancer Prevention
The main factors contributing to the risk of pancreatic cancer include obesity, diet, and heavy alcohol use. These conditions increase the risk of pancreatic cancer and are also associated with recurrent pancreatitis, a repeated inflammation of the pancreas. Fortunately, several preventative measures may be used. Below are just a few of them. Read on for more information. Here are three other significant factors to consider:
Quitting smoking
Although many of the risk factors for pancreatic cancer are mainly outside our control, there are a few simple things we can do to reduce our risk. One of these risk factors is smoking. Smoking is associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer, as smokers are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop the disease than nonsmokers. Smoking also increases the likelihood of getting pancreatitis, a precursor to pancreatic cancer. Smoking and drinking alcohol are also risk factors, especially for those with diabetes. People of Ashkenazi Jewish and black heritage are also at higher risk for pancreatic cancer.
Diabetes
A deeper understanding of the link between diabetes and pancreatic cancer prevention is needed to improve treatment and prevent death. As a condition that often has no symptoms and is regarded as a silent killer, diabetes and pancreatic cancer prevention are of utmost importance. Since most patients with the disease have no warning signs, early detection has long been the holy grail for reducing mortality. By 2040, it is expected to be the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
Weight loss
While it is often difficult to lose weight with pancreatic cancer, eating a balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to prevent weight loss and fatigue associated with the disease. Using a meal schedule is essential to stick to. Eating six to eight small meals daily will help reduce fatigue and maintain body weight. Also, consider taking low-impact exercise to stimulate your appetite. You can also keep a daily journal of your food intake and calories.
Endoscopic retrograde biopsy
An endoscopic retrograde biopsy is a surgical procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera, light, and ultrasound probe at the end. A physician guides the endoscope through the mouth or intestines to view the inside of the pancreas. After a diagnostic procedure, the doctor can use the images from the endoscope to determine whether the tumour is cancerous. Endoscopic ultrasound and CT scans are also sometimes used in this procedure.
Screening
The US Preventive Services Task Force recently reaffirmed their 2004 recommendation against screening for pancreatic cancer in asymptomatic individuals. This updated recommendation was based on a systematic review of all published evidence through April 2018. The report excluded interventions, cohort studies, clinical trials, studies of diagnostic accuracy, and genetic cancer syndromes. The screening interval should be ten years before a family member's earliest occurrence of cancer.
Diagnosis
Genetic testing is often the best way to detect it early for people at increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Some congenital abnormalities, such as BRCA2 gene mutations, are associated with a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Genetic blood tests can help identify such abnormalities and can guide further screening. If your doctor believes you have an inherited risk of developing pancreatic cancer, you may recommend genetic testing or annual imaging of the pancreas.
