Known for his spectacular roles in 'Designated Survivor', ‘Narcos’, and 'X-Men: Days of Future Past,' 42-year-old Mexican actor Adan Canto took his last breath on Monday after a prolonged battle with appendiceal cancer. The news was given by his publicist Jennifer Allen who confirmed his death in a statement saying, ''Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. … He will be greatly missed by so many."
The news of his demise shook the world and many came forward to pay their respects and tribute to the actor, including the actress Helle Berry with whom he has worked in projects like X-Men and Bruised. Kiefer Sutherland, who starred alongside him on 'Designated Survivor,' also took to Instagram to pay tribute to the actor.
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Understanding Appendiceal Cancer
While the actor’s demise leaves a void, it also highlights the importance of understanding ailments like appendiceal cancer, which can prove to be fatal when becomes advanced. According to Dr. Harshit Shah, Surgical Oncologist and Associate Consultant at Fortis Hospital, Kalyan, appendiceal cancer is a type of cancer that grows from cells that make up the appendix. It develops when the healthy cells of the appendix go through a certain mutation and grow out of control, forming a tumour.
Also Read: Cancer Prevention: Lifestyle Choices That Reduces The Risk Of Cancer
What Is An Appendix?
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The appendix is a small pouch of tissue in the abdomen, located at the junction of large and small intestines. Though the function of the appendix is still unknown, the experts are divided based on their beliefs. While some believe that it plays some role in the process of digestion, some say it is a vestigial organ and its removal doesn’t cause any long-term issues. However, it is very susceptible to developing several benign and malignant tumours including carcinoid tumours, mucinous cystadenomas, and appendiceal adenocarcinomas.
Symptoms Of Appendiceal Cancer
As per Dr. Shah, patients with appendiceal cancer usually don’t develop any symptoms, and even if they do, they vary from person to person. In the case of patients where symptoms can be seen, they might include:
- Appendicitis (inflammation or infection of the appendix).
- Ovarian masses.
- Bloating.
- Unexplained abdominal pain.
- Weight gain, especially around the waist.
- Pelvic pain.
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites).
- Changes in bowel function.
- Nausea and vomiting.
Causes Of Appendiceal Cancer
Appendiceal cancer happens due to a mutation in the cells of the appendix which leads to the cells growing out of control. But, experts are not sure about the cause of this mutation. However, there are certain risk factors that might play a substantial role in the development of appendiceal cancer.
- Gender: As per the American Society of Clinical Oncology, neuroendocrine tumours of the appendix are more common in women.
- Smoking Or Tobacco Use: Tobacco use increases the risk of all cancers, including Appendiceal Cancer.
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: It is a rare digestive tract condition, in which there is an excessive production of stomach acid. This condition is directly linked to an increased risk of appendix cancer.
- Pernicious anemia: Pernicious Anemia, or the deficiency of B12 can also be a contributing factor to appendiceal cancer.
- Atrophic Gastritis: It is also believed that the persistent inflammation of the stomach lining that comes with Atrophic Gastritis can also be a risk factor.
How Is Appendiceal Cancer Treated?
The treatment of appendiceal cancer is based on the size and stage of the tumour and the patient’s overall health. The treatment options for the condition include:
- Surgical Removal: For tumours less than one or two centimetres, removal of the appendix is the regular approach. However, larger tumours might require the removal of some extra tissue.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is the preferred treatment to kill cancer cells using drugs and can either be injected directly into the bloodstream or be provided in the form of a pill.
- Targeted Drug Therapy: Targeted Drug Therapy is used to directly target the cancer cells and reduce any damage that can caused to the healthy cells of the body. Cetuximab, bevacizumab, ramucirumab, and panitumumab are the most common drugs used in targeted drug therapy.
- Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC): It is a more intense approach than regular chemotherapy and is initiated at the same time as the surgery. The process requires heating up the chemotherapy drugs and circulating them inside your abdominal cavity.
Bottomline
The demise of Adan Canto serves as a poignant reflection on the significance of health awareness, particularly about issues such as appendiceal cancer. Let us celebrate the actor’s contributions to visual media and at the same time, learn from his journey, and advocate for proactive health measures in our own lives.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert for a treatment plan tailored to your medical history and needs.]