Cancer in any part of the body can affect overall health. Pancreatic cancer for instance, which occurs when the cells in the pancreas start to grow uncontrollably, can impact the digestive system, leading to stomach problems. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sandeep Nayak P, Director-Department of Surgical Oncology and Robotic & Laparoscopic Surgery, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, explains the link and symptoms to note.
The Role Of Pancreas
The pancreas is a multifunctional organ responsible for producing hormones like insulin and glucagon, which are crucial for regulating blood sugar levels, and for secreting digestive enzymes that aid in breaking down food in the small intestine, facilitating the absorption of nutrients. The former is called the endocrine function, whereas the latter is known as the exocrine function.
Also Read: Pancreatic Cancer: How To Know If The Cancer Has Spread?
How Pancreatic Cancer Can Cause Changes In Bowel Habits
Pancreatic cancer is the 12th most common cancer worldwide, says the World Cancer Research Fund International, adding, "There were more than 495,000 new cases of pancreatic cancer in 2020."
According to a study published in the World Journal of Oncology, pancreatic cancer is more common in men than in women, with a global incidence of 5.5 per 100,000 for men and 4.0 per 100,000 for women.
When asked if pancreatic cancer can affect the digestive system and bring about changes in the bowel habits, Dr Nayak says yes, explaining, “As cancer progresses, it can obstruct the normal functioning of the pancreas, thereby affecting its ability to release digestive enzymes and regulate blood sugar levels. In turn, it can alter digestion and release of waste from the body, resulting in changes in bowel habits.”
Symptoms To Note
The symptoms linked to changes in bowel habits due to pancreatic cancer include:
- Patients may experience a reduced appetite or early satiety
- Significant, unexplained weight loss
- Stool changes, such as diarrhoea, loose stools, or fatty, pale-coloured stools
- Indigestion, bloating, or discomfort after meals
- Glucose imbalances and diabetes-like symptoms
Common Risk Factors
Some of the factors that put you at risk of pancreatic cancer include:
- More prevalent in people over 45
- Having a close family member with pancreatic cancer increases risk.
- Tobacco use
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Chronic pancreatitis
- High intake of red meat, processed meats, and low intake of fruits and vegetables
- Alcohol consumption
- Exposure to certain chemicals
How To Reduce Risk Of Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Advanced pancreatic cancer refers to a stage of the disease where cancer has typically spread beyond the pancreas to nearby tissues, organs, or distant parts of the body. To reduce the risk, here are some strategies to follow:
- Visit a doctor if there are symptoms, such as pain in the abdomen.
- Assess your risk factors
- Get a PET-CT or triple-phase abdomen CT scan to rule out pancreatic cancer
- Get an ultrasound done, as it can reveal pancreatic cancer early
- Regular health checkup is vital
Bottomline
Pancreatic cancer can be deadly, but it can be managed if detected early. Regular check ups and doctor visits can help diagnose the condition early, helping in timely and effective treatment. Do not ignore any persistent symptom associated with cancer, as some of them can be misdiagnosed with other benign conditions, leading to delay in treatment.