Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

What Is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of the pancreas, a small organ located behind the stomach that helps with digestion and blood sugar regulation. When cells in the pancreas grow out of control, they form tumors that can spread quickly and silently, often going undetected until advanced stages.

Common Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

Early symptoms are often vague, making diagnosis difficult. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Abdominal or back pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, greasy stools)
• New-onset diabetes, particularly after age 50

These symptoms don’t always point to pancreatic cancer, but if they persist, it's important to speak with a doctor.

What Causes Pancreatic Cancer?

While the exact cause remains unknown, certain risk factors may increase your likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer:

• Age: Most cases occur after age 65
• Family history of pancreatic or related cancers
• Smoking and tobacco use
• Obesity and poor diet
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Genetic mutations, including BRCA1/BRCA2

Stages of Pancreatic Cancer

Understanding the stage of cancer helps guide treatment decisions:

• Stage 0–I: Localized tumors, potentially removable by surgery
• Stage II: Tumor has grown into nearby tissues or lymph nodes
• Stage III–IV: Advanced or metastatic cancer that has spread to distant organs

The five-year survival rate is around 13% overall—but can be as high as 44% if caught early and treated surgically.

Pancreatic Cancer Treatment at Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center

Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center offers comprehensive, multidisciplinary care tailored to each patient's needs. Treatment options may include:

1. Surgery

• Whipple procedure
• Distal pancreatectomy
• Total pancreatectomy
  Surgical removal is most effective for early-stage, localized tumors.

2. Chemotherapy

Medications are used to destroy cancer cells. Often combined with surgery or radiation.

3. Radiation Therapy

Our center offers MRIdian® MRI-guided radiation therapy, which delivers precise treatment while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

These options are available for some patients based on genetic testing and tumor profile.

5. Palliative Care

Supportive care focuses on pain relief, nutrition, and emotional well-being during all stages of care.

Living with Pancreatic Cancer

A diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At BASS, we provide:

• Access to Dr. Kenneth Chao, a radiation therapy expert
• Patient navigators and support staff
• Nutritional and psychosocial counseling
• Clinical trial opportunities

We’re here to improve your quality of life through every phase of care.

Conclusion: You're Not Alone in the Fight

Pancreatic cancer is a serious illness, but early detection and expert care can make a life-changing difference. If you or a loved one is showing symptoms or at risk, contact Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center for an evaluation. We are committed to guiding you through every step of the journey with compassion and leading-edge care.