Which cancer is known as the silent killer?

Overview

In several diseases, a patient presents with a collection of signs and symptoms, a doctor performs a regular checkup; and the disease is successfully diagnosed and treated. But what about those diseases with no such warning signs and symptoms. Suddenly, they appear with a severe set of symptoms when they’re already at an advanced age. And if the disease is cancer, it seems to be more life-threatening. Here we’ve discussed one such silent cancer, i.e., pancreatic cancer, with the help of our expert oncologist.

Understanding pancreatic cancer: Why is this called a silent disease?

For good reason, pancreatic cancer is regarded as the "silent killer." As per our expert oncologist, patients with this condition are frequently asymptomatic until the disease has spread to other organs. Cancer has advanced by the time they are diagnosed, and it is too late to undergo effective therapy. And early detection technologies continue to be insufficient.

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Why do certain cancers show no initial symptoms?

Some malignancies do not show any signs at first. It is because most of these tumours affect the internal organs. As a result, changes in these organs are not visible from the outside. However, these cancers do not come without warning signs. The earliest symptoms of many tumours, however, are similar to those of other less serious health disorders. It is therefore critical to recognize the first symptoms and contact a doctor.

Risk factors associated with pancreatic cancer:

The following are the risk factors associated with pancreatic cancer that include:

• Smoking
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Personal history of pancreatic cancer or pancreatitis in the family
• Conditions of heredity
• Age

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Why does pancreatic cancer cause such a concern?

It is vital to detect and treat all malignancies, and pancreatic cancer is no exception. Despite its rarity—it is the twelfth most prevalent new cancer each year—it is the fourth leading cause of cancer death, trailing only lung, colon, and breast cancers.

In other words, even though only 48,000 people are diagnosed each year, nearly as many (40,000) die as a result of it. Early detection gives you the best chance at a successful treatment.

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Diagnosis of pancreatic cancer:

A pancreatic cancer diagnosis is challenging and frequently delayed. Because the symptoms are not very precise, the diagnosis is frequently delayed.

-Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes),

-light-coloured feces,

-black urine,

-abdominal and/or back pain,

-unexplained weight loss,

-tiredness, and

-poor appetite.

All are symptoms of the same.

With the exception of jaundice and the colour of feces and urine, none of these symptoms or signs is definite indicators of a problem, and even these are sometimes late signs of sickness.

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How do we prevent such cancers from happening?

Silent cancers like pancreatic cancer should always be considered life-threatening. Regular screening is a must to protect yourself and your loved ones from such diseases.

It is also critical that people identify their risk factors, which may be cancer-specific. If they are at high risk of acquiring certain cancers, they must be screened on a regular basis.

Avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy weight are two risk-reduction strategies. If you are in the high-risk category, talk to your doctor about the new GPC1 blood test. As with any condition, being aware of changes in usual activities and eating habits is crucial for early detection, which is critical for a successful outcome after cancer treatment.

Also, Read - A Guide to Colorectal Cancer Prevention

How can we help with the treatment?

If you need to undergo cancer treatment in India, we will serve as your guide throughout your treatment and will be physically present with you even before your Health Trip begins. The following will be provided to you:

• Opinions of expert physicians and surgeons
• Transparent communication
• Coordinated care
• Prior appointment with specialists
• Assistance with hospital formalities
• 24*7 availability
• Arrangements for travel
• Assistance for accommodation and healthy recovery
• Assistance in emergencies

We are dedicated to offering the highest quality health care to our patients. We have a team of highly qualified and devoted health professionals that will be by your side from the beginning of your journey.