Pancreatic Cancer
Compassionate, Individualized Care for Every Stage
At Baptist Health Care, we provide a comprehensive range of treatment options for pancreatic cancer, tailored to each patient’s unique diagnosis and needs. Our approach includes advanced therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, which may be used before or after surgery depending on the cancer’s stage and location. In cases where surgery is not possible, we offer innovative non-surgical treatments to help control the disease and improve quality of life.
Our multidisciplinary team—including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, gastroenterologists, and radiation specialists—works closely to evaluate your condition and develop a personalized care plan. Genetic and molecular testing may be recommended to better understand the biology of your cancer and identify potential hereditary risk factors. These insights help guide decisions about the most effective therapies for you.
What is Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer begins when cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The pancreas is a gland located behind the stomach that plays a vital role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. Most pancreatic cancers are adenocarcinomas, which originate in the cells lining the pancreatic ducts. Less common types include neuroendocrine tumors and acinar cell carcinomas.
Pancreatic cancer is often difficult to detect early because symptoms may be subtle or absent until the disease has advanced. It can spread to nearby organs such as the liver, stomach, and intestines, and in later stages, to distant parts of the body.
Symptoms
Early-stage pancreatic cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Abdominal or back pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite or nausea
- Fatigue
- New-onset diabetes or worsening blood sugar control