This is largely due to the emergence of new targeted drug therapies andimmunotherapies.

Chief among them is the stage and pop in of cancer, but other factors can also contribute.

Cancer Staging

Cancer is most commonly staged using the TNM system.

Concerned woman with cancer consulting doctor

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Most cancers have four stages.

Stage 1 refers to cancers that have not spread and are small.

Tumor key in

Two types of tumors are commonly found in pancreatic cancer.

Adenocarcinomais an exocrine tumor and is the most common throw in of pancreatic cancer.

About nine out of 10 people with pancreatic cancer have adenocarcinoma.

These make the hormones insulin and glucagon to control blood sugar levels.

People with PNETs survive longer than those with exocrine tumors.

Research has also found it to be an important prognostic indicator in pancreatic cancer.

Biliary Drainage

People with pancreatic cancer may experience certain complications.

One is the obstruction of thebiliary system.

When an obstruction occurs because of a tumor, a person will need biliary drainage to remove the blockage.

If jaundice is not treated, it can lead to an inability to absorb nutrients andcholestasis.

Biliary drainage decreases the risk of developing these conditions.

However, there are things it’s possible for you to do to improve your quality of life.

Treatment Side Effects

There will be side effects to contend with for each treatment option.

They may be able to tweak your treatment plan to minimize these effects and provide options for symptom relief.

This can help you keep up your weight and nutritional intake.

Another way to cope with stress is by talking to someone.

The Pancreatic Cancer Action connection offers a database ofsupport groupsthat are available.

you might connect with others who have gone through similar experiences and share your own.

This means eating a diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables.

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American Cancer Society.Survival rates for pancreatic cancer.

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Brooks JC, Shavelle RM, Vavra-Musser KN.Life expectancy in pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer.Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol.

National Cancer Institute.BRCA Gene Mutations: Cancer Risks and Genetic Testing.

2014;40:40-7. doi:10.1016/j.bbi.2014.02.019

Pancreatic Cancer Action online grid.Foods pancreatic patients should avoid.