Cancer Care

Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the pancreas. The pancreas sits below the stomach and is responsible for producing enzymes that help digest food and hormones to help with blood sugar regulation.

The pancreas consists of two glands. One of these glands produces digestive enzymes that assist in the digestion of food. These glands drain into ducts, which in turn drain into the small intestines. When the cells of these ducts turn cancerous, it becomes the most common form of pancreatic cancer known as pancreatic exocrine cancer which accounts for 95% of all pancreatic cancers.

Pancreatic cancer is the 10th most common cancer in males. It is generally aggressive and is the 4th most common cause of cancer death in males and females.

Signs and Symptoms

There are often mild to no symptoms in the early stage of pancreatic cancer. As the cancer progresses, some symptoms may show.

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer include:

Fatigue
Diarrhoea
Jaundice
Loss of appetite
Upper abdominal discomfort or pain
Unexplained or unintentional weight loss
Indigestion or bloating

Prevention

Some ways you can lower your risk of pancreatic cancer include:

Stop smoking or stop inhaling second-hand smoke
Limit your alcohol consumption
Eat a healthy diet with fruits, vegetables and whole grains
Exercise regularly
Maintain a healthy weight

Life After Cancer: Navigating Survivorship in the 21st Century

With a good understanding of what to expect during your post-cancer treatment, doctors and patients can work together to put the fear of cancer recurrence to rest. We speak to Medical Oncologist Dr. John Chia and Radiation Oncologist Dr. David Tan about life after cancer treatment.

Understanding Cancer: Your Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support

Advancements in medical technology today offer hope despite the rising incidence of cancer worldwide. With a comprehensive approach to cancer care, including support from experienced clinical oncologists, specialists, and healthcare professionals, many cancers may be effectively treated or managed.

Empowering Yourself with Knowledge

This resource provides information about cancer, including:

Types of Cancer: Learn about different forms of cancer and their specific characteristics.
Early Detection: Understand the importance of cancer screening for early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.
Treatment Options: Explore various cancer treatments, including surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
Financial Assistance: Discover available financial aid options to help manage the cost of cancer care.
Reducing Your Risk: Learn about lifestyle factors and preventive measures to minimize your cancer risk.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Normally, the body replaces old or damaged cells with new ones. However, genetic mutations or other factors can disrupt this process, leading to the formation of abnormal cells that multiply uncontrollably and form tumors.

Types of Tumors:

Benign Tumors: Non-cancerous tumors that do not spread to other parts of the body.
Malignant Tumors: Cancerous tumors that can spread to other parts of the body, also known as metastasis.

What Causes Cancer?

Cancer is caused by a complex interplay of factors, including:

Non-Modifiable Factors: Age, family history, and inherited genetic mutations.
Modifiable Factors:
- Lifestyle: Diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
- Environmental Exposures: Radiation, ultraviolet rays, pollutants, and certain viruses and bacteria.

Symptoms of Cancer

Cancer symptoms vary depending on the type and location. However, some general signs and symptoms include:

Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Swelling or lumps
Skin changes
Persistent cough or headaches
Unusual bleeding or bruising

Important Note: These symptoms may also be indicative of other health conditions. Speak to our Specialists today for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Common Cancers in Singapore

Men
Colorectal cancer is also known as bowel cancer and rectal cancer, and is a disease in which the cells in the colon and rectum mutate and change.

Prostate cancer occurs specifically in the prostate, located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, where cells mutate to form tumors that may be localized or spread to nearby tissues.

Lung cancer is a disease in which cells in the lungs mutate to form tumors that interfere with the lung's primary function of taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide.
Women
Breast cancer develops in breast tissue where tumors form, and most breast cancers begin in the ducts and glands of breasts.

Colorectal cancer is also known as bowel cancer and rectal cancer and is a disease in which the cells in the colon and rectum mutate and change.

Lung cancer is a disease in which cells in the lungs mutate to form tumors that interfere with the lung's primary function of taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide,

Cancer Treatment Goals

Complete tumor removal.
Prevention of cancer recurrence or spread.
Symptom management and palliative care.

Cancer Prevention

While there's no guaranteed way to prevent cancer, you may reduce your risk by:

Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet.
Getting regular exercise.
Undergoing recommended cancer screenings.
Getting vaccinated against certain cancer-causing viruses (e.g., HPV).

Farrer Park Cancer Care is supported by a panel of multi-disciplinary oncology experts to guide patients and their caregivers on their cancer journey; using innovative approaches to cancer treatments with new technologies, personalized care plans and therapies.

From understanding a cancer diagnosis to deciding on a treatment plan, we are here to meet the spectrum of needs required by our patients, providing them with clinical care and working together to make informed decisions as we navigate with them through the disease into remission.

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