The most infuriating fact about pancreatic cancer is that it’s being called ‘The Silent Killer’. (Actors like Patrick Swayze can tell you all about it!!)The reason for this is because it literally creeps up on you like a war dog, just to reveal itself when it’s almost (note: ALMOST) too late. Surely there must be SOME early symptoms? If you can answer ‘yes’ to the following – be sure that you might be treading on thin ice: Do you smoke, eat copious amounts of red meat and very little fresh fruit and veg? Do you experience bouts of gingivitis? Are you an overweight alcohol consumer? If you are male, over 50 and have a family history of pancreatic cancer on top of this – you should start thinking twice about your way of life!

The pancreas is not a very large organ, and shaped like a ‘dogs’ tongue’. Being part of the endocrine system, the pancreas is in actual fact a huge gland, situated near the duodenum, behind the liver. Its function is to secrete digestive enzymes, insulin and glucagon. The spleen and pancreas work together – the spleens’ artery branches to the pancreas, and the blood returned from the pancreas combines with that of the spleen, together moving to the portal vein of the liver for purification. Maybe being ‘tuned in’ to your spleen, could help in earlier detection. Your spleen (another huge lymph node) can become engorged when ‘ill’. Pain in the upper left abdomen (that might even reach the left shoulder) and frequent infections, weakness, constant tiredness and exaggerated bleeding from small wounds – are all signs that your spleen is unhappy, and when your spleen is unhappy – your pancreas might follow!

Most patients suffering from pancreatic cancer experienced symptoms only when the cancer was well on its way (stage 3 or 4). Pancreatic cancer is (at this stage) very lethal!! Any sudden weight loss, appetite loss, indigestion, sudden aversion to alcohol, yellow skin and/or eyes, and pain or discomfort in the left upper abdomen can be equal to a fire – not just smoke! The jaundice that most patients experience is due to the bile duct obstruction at the head of the pancreas, thus building a dam of toxins. Unfortunately, once pancreatic cancer metastasises, it becomes inoperable, unstoppable and incurable.

The one main reason why this cancer is so difficult to detect is due to the fact that there are – as yet – no easy way of screening the pancreas (e.g. sonar). Ways of screening the pancreas for precursor lesions (that are very treatable); before it turns into invasive pancreatic cancer is being investigated. Other pancreatic cancer research is: The DNA abnormalities being shed from pancreatic cancer can also be detected in duodenal fluids, blood and stool of the patient. There are trials in the works for cancer vaccines for pancreatic cancer – which will hopefully aid tremendously with the treatment, in conjunction with chemotherapy. There are also genetic studies under way. The DPC4 pancreatic cancer gene has been discovered – and this should make gene-specific therapy possible. Presently, in various countries, one can opt for Cyberknife therapy. This form of radiotherapy uses a robotic arm, which targets more accurately (it moves at any angle) by using a small linear particle accelerator. Very positive results have also come from experiments with the SIAH (Seven-In’Absentia-Homolog) protein as a new therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer. SIAH proteins come from the SINA (Seven-In-Absentia) gene, and SIAH seems to aid the K-RAS gene (known for its hyper activated growth promotion in pancreatic cancer) in its pathways – forming tumours and aiding metastasis. By targeting SIAH protein – one might be able to diminish metastasis and tumour growth!

CUT YOUR RISK and avoid getting the dreadful disease pancreatic cancer: Take more Vitamin D, and Vitamins B12, B6 and folate (preferably in food form) and also get a daily allowance of curcumin (turmeric). Quit smoking, cut the amounts of red meat you consume, eat more fresh fruit and vegetables, up on whole grains – and maintain a healthy weight. Being diabetic may also be an early risk factor for developing pancreatic cancer! To aid your spleen – drink no less than 6 glasses of clear water daily.

Be assured that the best possible research regarding Pancreatic Cancer is being done. Ask your oncologist about latest research and trials being undertaken, read up about your condition as much as possible – and never give up!