The American Cancer Society projected that in 2007 found approximately 37,170 people in the United States pancreatic cancer and about 33,370 die from this disease. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal of all cancers with a tax survival rates than low. According to the American Cancer Society, only 5% of patients with pancreatic cancer live 5 years after cancer. Even for those with local institutionsdisease (not to other organs), the 5-year survival is only 16%.
Many people do not know what is cancer of the pancreas, because they are unfamiliar with the pancreas. The pancreas is a gland behind the stomach. It is shaped a bit 'like a fish. It is 6 inches in length and less than 2 inches in width. It extends across the abdomen. The pancreas has two functions. It breaks down fats and proteins in foods we eat, what to use the bodythem. The pancreas also produces hormones that balance the amount of sugar in the blood.
While pancreatic cancer can strike anyone, the American Cancer Society has identified several risk factors for cancer of the pancreas:
* Nearly one hundred of patients with pancreatic cancer are over 55 years.
* Men have this cancer more often than women.
* African-Americans tend to this type of cancer that have Bianchi.
* The risk of this cancer among smokers is higher.
* There may be a link with the consumption of large amounts of red meat and pork, especially meat (like sausage and bacon).
* People who are overweight, 20% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer.
* Pancreatic cancer is more common in people with diabetes.
* Certain substances, such as certain pesticides, dyes, or gasoline products, the risk of theseCancer.
* Pancreatic cancer seems to run in some families. Seems to represent about 1 in 10 cases.
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer, according to the American Cancer Society are:
*) The pain in the belly (abdomen or in the middle of the back is a common sign of advanced pancreatic cancer. Once again, the pain is often caused by something other than cancer.
* Losing weight (untreated)over several months is very common in patients with breast cancer. You can also very tired and with a loss of appetite.
* If the cancer blocks the release of pancreatic juice, intestinal problems, such difficulties may be the loss of fat. Stools may be pale, bulky, greasy, and float in the bathtub. Other problems can include nausea, vomiting and pain, which tends to be worse after eating.
* The doctor may determine that the gallbladderfoam.
Many patients are treated with surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy to prolong his life. If any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor for a checkup. Early diagnosis and treatment can contribute to your chances of surviving pancreatic cancer.