Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month: Know the Risks, Spot the Signs, Share the Hope
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging cancers to detect and treat and often goes undiagnosed until it has reached an advanced stage. In this article, we are raising awareness, sharing important information, and most important offering hope.
Pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of the pancreas and is located behind the stomach and assists with digestion and blood sugar levels. The two main types of pancreatic cancer are:
Exocrine tumors that form in the pancreas ducts that produce digestive enzymes.
Endocrine tumors are rarer and develop in the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas.
Some of the most common risk factors include:
Most cases occur in people over 60
Smokers are two to three times more likely to develop pancreatic cancer
Excess weight and lack of physical activity can increase the risk
Both type 2 diabetes and new-onset diabetes in people over 50 may be linked to pancreatic cancer
Having a close family member with pancreatic cancer increases your risk.
Watch for these symptoms
Persistent pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back
Yellowing of the skin and eyes and accompanied by dark urine
Unexplained weight loss or sudden decrease in appetite
Nausea, vomiting, and changes in stool
New onset diabetes in people over 50 with no family history of diabetes
How do we support those affected?
Join a support group
Share information about pancreatic cancer to raise awareness
Donate or fundraise for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.
This November, Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, wear purple to show support.
Please visit the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network or the American Cancer Society. Let’s continue to spread awareness and inspire hope.
If you need help dealing with Pancreatic Cancer’s effects on your health and wellness, schedule a free consultation with me to learn how coaching can help you through this process.