The pancreas is a small spongy organ located under the curvature of the stomach deep within the abdomen.  The function of the pancreas is twofold – it produces enzymes which help with digestion of food and also secretes hormones to help maintain and regulate body sugar levels.

            Each year more than 30,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas.  The incidence of this disease increases with age.  The gap between men and women has shrunk, possibly because of increased cigarette smoking by women,  but it is the 4^th leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women.  Dr. Robert Prieto, oncologist/hematologist with WTMA, states, “Pancreatic cancer spreads rapidly and is seldom detected in early stages, which is a main reason why it is a leading cause of cancer death.”

            Signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer usually do not occur until the disease is advanced.  When symptoms do occur they may include:

·        Upper abdominal pain radiating to the back

·        Yellowing of your skin and whites of eyes (jaundice)

·        Loss of appetite

·        Weight loss

·        Depression

            Researchers are studying ways to detect pancreatic cancer earlier, but it isn’t clear who should undergo screening and which tests may more reliably find this cancer in its earliest stages.  Currently no standard screening exists for pancreatic cancer.

           If you have any concerns or questions regarding pancreatic cancer, please talk to your healthcare provider.  Referrals and appointments may be scheduled by calling Dr. Prieto’s office at 325-224-5761.