The pancreas is a vital organ of our body that is present just behind the stomach. It plays a significant role in synthesizing digestive enzymes as well as various essential hormones. Globally, nearly half a million people were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2020. Although it's not a very common cancer, it is considered one of the most devastating.
Pancreatic cancer management has made substantial progress in recent times. Progress involves the development and introduction of various novel treatment modalities into the practice. Such advanced therapies include neoadjuvant therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. These advancements hold promise for improving overall survival outcomes and enhancing quality of life for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Let’s scroll down to learn more about the top hospitals and the best doctors for pancreatic cancer treatment in Mumbai.
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What is Pancreatic Cancer?
When cells in the pancreas undergo mutations and proliferate uncontrollably, a tumor is formed, which then advances to pancreatic cancer. The pancreas is positioned between the spinal column and the digestive tract. It is responsible for producing hormones that regulate blood sugar levels and enzymes that aid in digestion. Pancreatic cancer often starts in the pancreatic ducts.Read Also: Best Breast Cancer Hospital in Mumbai, India: Treatment, Cost & Specialists
What Makes Pancreatic Cancer Care a Challenge?
Detection of pancreatic cancers in their early stages becomes challenging as it is sometimes difficult to catch them through imaging tests. This is why many patients are unaware of the cancer until it has spread. Pancreatic cancer is generally resistant to many cancer treatments, making it notoriously difficult to treat.This is because of the following reasons:
- When a tumor develops in the pancreas, it is often surrounded by scar tissue. This scar tissue blocks the effect of the majority of treatments.
- The pancreas is positioned deep within the body, making tumors difficult to spot or feel, which makes early detection of this cancer more challenging in many situations.
- This cancer is among the most aggressive gut cancers and tends to progress quickly, spreading to other organs early and making treatment more challenging.
What are the Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer?
Unfortunately, there are no early signs of pancreatic cancer. The following are the symptoms associated with advanced-stage pancreatic cancer:- Jaundice
- Dark urine
- Light-colored stool
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Pain in the middle region of the back
- Excessive fatigue
- Itching
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Blood clots
- New-onset diabetes
- Weight loss
What are the Diagnostic Tests of Pancreatic Cancer in Mumbai, India?
There is a lack of routine screening tests for pancreatic cancer. However, doctors advise regular imaging scans and endoscopic ultrasounds for patients who have a strong family history of pancreatic cancer. Your doctor will inquire thoroughly about your family history of pancreatic cancer, including any parents or siblings who have the disease. If you are at risk of getting pancreatic cancer in the future, your doctor will advise you to undergo regular testing.The following are diagnostic tests that help detect pancreatic cancer:
- Imaging tests include ultrasound, CT scans, MRI scans, and PET (positron emission tomography) scans
- Endoscopic ultrasound, also called EUS
- Biopsy
- Fine-needle aspiration
- Blood tests for tumor markers like CA19-9
- Genetic testing
What are the Treatment Options for Pancreatic Cancer in Mumbai, India?
The exact location and stage of pancreatic cancer determine the best course of treatment. The primary objective of pancreatic cancer treatment, in the majority of cases, is complete cancer cell elimination. When that isn't an option, preventing the cancer from spreading or worsening symptoms may take precedence.The main treatment modalities for this cancer are surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. The effectiveness of these treatments greatly depends upon the stage of the cancer and the overall health of the patient. Because of this, the primary goal of treatment is symptom relief and a better quality of life.
| Treatment Category | Treatment/Surgery Type |
|
Surgical Treatments |
Whipple procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy) |
| Distal pancreatectomy (body and tail of pancreas) | |
| Total pancreatectomy (entire pancreas removal) | |
| Vascular resection and reconstruction surgery | |
|
Medical Treatments |
Chemotherapy |
| Radiation therapy | |
| Chemoradiation (combined chemotherapy and radiation) | |
| Advanced / Targeted Approaches | Immunotherapy |
| Supportive Care | Palliative care |
Top Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Hospitals in Mumbai, India
The following are the leading pancreatic cancer treatment hospitals in Mumbai, India:- Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai
- Asian Heart Institute, Mumbai
- HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali
- SSO Cancer Hospital, Mumbai
- M | O | C Cancer Care & Research Centre, Mumbai
- FUDA Cancer Hospital, Mumbai
- Fortis Cancer Institute, Mulund
Top Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Doctors in Mumbai, India
The following are the leading pancreatic cancer treatment doctors in Mumbai, India:- Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan
- Dr. Prashant Balvant Kerkar
- Professor Shailesh V. Shrikhande
- Dr. Prasad Kasbekar
- Dr. Arun Behl
- Dr. Yogesh Kulkarni
- Dr. Rakesh Rai
Conclusion
Hearing that you have pancreatic cancer can change your life in significant ways. You can rely on your team of doctors for support during this challenging period. The diagnosis of pancreatic cancer can turn your world upside down. The pancreatic cancer specialists are here to start personalized treatment for the best possible outcomes.Asian Heart Institute is emerging as the leading pancreatic cancer hospital in Mumbai, India. Book your consultation today.
FAQs
Q1: What is the progression timeline for pancreatic cancer?A: The typical progression of pancreatic cancer from a single cell to a tumor is around 10–20 years. The goal of ongoing research is to uncover a better way to spot pancreatic cancer in its early and more treatable stages.
Q2: What is pancreatic cancer's survival rate?
A: The five-year survival rate for people with pancreatic cancer is 11%. This means that 11 out of 100 people are still alive five years after their diagnosis.
Q3: Is pancreatic cancer completely curable?
A: Although the survival rate for pancreatic cancer is low, it is possible to achieve complete remission by early detection and treatment. The sole treatment option for pancreatic cancer that has a high success rate is surgical excision of the entire tumor.
Q4: How can I prevent pancreatic cancer?
A: You can’t prevent pancreatic cancer, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk. These include quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, eating plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, reducing consumption of red meat, sugary drinks, and processed foods, limiting exposure to harmful chemicals such as asbestos, pesticides, and petrochemicals, and maintaining a healthy body weight.
