Is pancreatic cancer hereditary? While it’s a relatively rare form of cancer, family history can play a significant role in determining your risk. About 10% of pancreatic cancer cases are linked to inherited gene mutations, which makes understanding your family’s health history crucial. In this article, we’ll explore how genetics influence pancreatic cancer and other key risk factors to help you manage your health proactively.
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas. The most common type of pancreatic cancer is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. See more here.
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma begins in the cells that line the ducts carrying digestive enzymes. Pancreatic cancer forms when cells in the pancreas develop changes in their DNA.
These changes cause cells to grow uncontrollably and avoid dying at the appropriate time, a situation which leads to the formation of a tumor. Symptoms often appear only when the cancer has advanced which makes it difficult to tell if you have pancreatic cancer.
When the symptoms do appear, you may experience belly pain that spreads to the back, loss of appetite, weight loss, jaundice, light-colored stools, dark urine, itching, new or worsening diabetes, and fatigue. This article answers the question; is pancreatic cancer hereditary? Keep reading!
Can Pancreatic Cancer Run in the Family?
Pancreatic cancer affects just about 13 out of every 100,000 people so it is a rare form of cancer. However, a question that is frequently asked is; is pancreatic cancer hereditary?
The answer is yes, pancreatic cancer can run in the family. It is estimated that about 10% of pancreatic cancer cases are hereditary, caused by gene mutations passed down through families. Mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes commonly linked to breast cancer; also increase your risk of pancreatic cancer.
Other genetic mutations can elevate this risk as well. But it isn’t just your family history that determines your risk for pancreatic cancer. The other key risk factors include;
- Type 2 Diabetes: If you have type 2 diabetes, you might be at a higher risk for pancreatic cancer. Managing your blood sugar levels and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate this risk.
- Smoking: Smoking significantly increases your risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to lower your risks and improve your overall health.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can elevate your risk of pancreatic cancer. It may help to adopt a balanced diet and regular exercise routine to maintain a healthy weight and reduce this risk.
- Chronic Pancreatitis: Chronic inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, can raise your risk of pancreatic cancer. If you suffer from chronic pancreatitis, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and manage your condition carefully.
- Alcohol Consumption: Drinking a lot of alcohol is linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Moderating your alcohol intake can be beneficial for your overall health and help reduce this risk.
- Older Age: The risk of pancreatic cancer increases with age, particularly if you are over 65. Regular check-ups and staying informed about your health are crucial as you get older.
Can Pancreatic Cancer Be Fully Cured?
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging cancers to treat and cure which explains why so many people frequently ask; can pancreatic cancer be fully cured? Now, the possibility of a full cure for pancreatic cancer depends on several factors, including the size and type of pancreatic cancer, its location, whether it has spread, and your overall health. Some of the options that you have for pancreatic cancer treatment include;
Surgery
If pancreatic cancer is found early and has not spread, surgery might be an option to remove it. This involves removing part or, in some cases, all of the pancreas.
Sometimes, parts of surrounding organs may also need to be removed. Recovery from such surgery can be lengthy and challenging.
If the cancer cannot be completely removed, surgery may still be used to manage s ymptoms. For example, surgery can unblock the bile duct to alleviate jaundice or the small intestine to reduce nausea and vomiting. These procedures aim to improve the quality of life rather than cure the cancer.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medications to kill cancer cells. It can be used if the cancer is inoperable due to poor health or if the cancer is too advanced.
Chemotherapy might also be combined with radiotherapy (chemoradiotherapy) for better results. Chemotherapy may be given before surgery to shrink the cancer to make it easier to remove, or after surgery to prevent the cancer from returning.
Radiotherapy
In radiotherapy, your care team will use high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. While not commonly used for pancreatic cancer, it can be an option if surgery isn’t feasible.
It is often combined with chemotherapy. Radiotherapy can also help control symptoms and improve the quality of life for those with advanced cancer.
Supportive Care
Supportive care focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving your overall well-being. This can include treatments for eating difficulties, weight loss, pain management, fatigue, and nausea. Specialists may prescribe enzyme replacement tablets to aid digestion and anti-sickness medications to manage nausea.
How to Choose the Best Pancreatic Care Clinic
When choosing a pancreatic care clinic, you will want to insist on working with the best facility for efficient treatment and recovery. To choose the best pancreatic care clinic, here are five key things to consider;
- Your Treatment Goals: Ensure the clinic’s treatment goals align with your own. Discuss your objectives with the healthcare providers to see if they match the clinic’s approach. This alignment is essential for a cohesive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
- Multidisciplinary Team: Look for a clinic with a multidisciplinary team. This should include specialists like gastroenterologists, pancreas surgeons, and interventional radiologists. A team approach ensures comprehensive care that covers all aspects of your treatment from different medical perspectives.
- Experience and Expertise: Check the clinic’s experience with pancreatic cancer. Ask how many people with pancreatic cancer they treat each year and their specific experience with cases like yours. A clinic with a proven track record can provide more confidence in their ability to manage your condition effectively.
- Patient-Focused Programs: Choose a clinic that offers patient-focused programs. These might include pain management, psychosocial support, and access to clinical trials. Such programs do not only enhance the overall care experience but also help address both physical and emotional needs during treatment.
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Inquire about the clinic’s use of advanced diagnostic tools like tumor biomarkers and genetic testing. These tools can provide critical information to guide your treatment decisions and ensure a more personalized and effective approach.
Closing Thoughts
While pancreatic cancer can be hereditary, it’s important to remember that managing risk factors, regular check-ups, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can make a difference. If you have a family history of pancreatic cancer, consulting with a specialist can help you understand your risks and guide you toward appropriate preventive measures. Early awareness and proactive care are key in managing hereditary pancreatic cancer risk.
If you’re in Singapore, Dr. Lee Chin Li-Lee’s Surgery and Endoscopy clinic is a good place to start. Call or visit today to make arrangements for your appointment.
Dr. Lee Chin Li-Lee Surgery and Endoscopy | Colorectal Surgery | Gallbladder Surgery Singapore
6 Napier Rd, #04-16 Gleneagles Medical Centre, Singapore 258499. +65 6255 0720
