Pancreatic cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the pancreas. About 95 percent of pancreatic cancers begin in exocrine cells. Smoking and health history can affect the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
The following are possible risk factors for pancreatic cancer:
- Smoking
- Long-standing diabetes
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Certain hereditary conditions
Possible signs of pancreatic cancer include jaundice, pain, and weight loss.
Pancreatic cancer can be controlled only if it is found before it has spread, when it can be removed by surgery. If the cancer has spread, palliative treatment can improve the patient's quality of life by controlling the symptoms and complications of this disease.
Pancreatic Cancer Treatment at Moores UCSD Cancer Center
Pancreas cancer patients are treated in our Pancreatic Cancer Unit . Follow the links to learn more about our unique approach to care.