In the last decade, early onset Pancreatic Cancer (pancreatic cancer) has been on the rise, as more and more young adults are being detected with this life-threatening abnormality.
A study published in the American Journal of Cancer Research states that pancreatic cancer is the 12th most common type of cancer and the 7th most common cause of cancer death. The study shared that almost 5-12% of all pancreatic cancer cases can be attributed to early onset pancreatic cancer, and this incidence is seeing a significant incline.
To understand the cause behind this, the team of OnlyMyHealth spoke to Dr Rahul Wagh, Consultant- Onco Surgeon, Manipal Hospitals, Baner, Pune.
Pancreatic Cancer In Young Adults
"Ideally speaking, pancreatic cancer is traditionally called the cancer of the elderly. Almost 85 to 90% of pancreatic cancers occur in people who are more than at least 55 to 60 years of age. Very rarely do they occur in younger age groups," shared Dr Wagh.
Stating some reasons why pancreatic cancer has been rising among the younger generations, he listed:
- Nowadays, diagnostic processes are much more advanced and are enabling the accurate detection of cancer in young adults as well.
- Another reason could be environmental risk factors like alcohol and smoking.
- Obesity.
- History of chronic pancreatitis.
- The recent onset of diabetes detection has revealed that more than ever before, younger people are getting detected with diabetes at a very early age.
- Genetic mutations can even cause pancreatic cancers in patients less than eight years of age.
Pancreatic Cancer Screening In Young Adults
One big challenge that blocks the road for young adults to seek early treatment for pancreatic cancer is that often a young person would not suspect that they have cancer, and hence, ignore the symptoms.
To combat the same, Dr Wagh suggested that if you see any of the following signs, you should seek a healthcare provider immediately:
- Genetic testing or an endoscopic ultrasound is recommended for those who have a family history of pancreatic cancer. If more than three members of a family have pancreatic cancer, there's a 35% chance of getting the disease. If two family members have pancreatic cancer, then the risk is 25%.
- Signs of jaundice due to an obstructed biliary duct, like yellow eyes and darker urine than usual.
- Inexplicable loss of weight.
- Unusual changes in stool colour, for example, greyish stools.
- Bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Dr Wagh concluded that people must pay attention to their bodily signs. If you notice any of the above signs, do not delay consulting a medical professional, especially if you have a family history of pancreatic cancer. Keep in mind that pancreatic cancer may be rare but has a significant burden among young adults. Timely detection and early intervention are key if you want to protect yourself from succumbing to pancreatic cancer.