Pancreatic Cancer Surges: Young Adults Now At Risk

Pancreatic cancer, once considered rare, is now seeing a concerning increase in cases over the past decade. Medical professionals report a near doubling of monthly diagnoses at tertiary cancer centers compared to previous years. This rise is largely attributed to an increase in pancreatitis, driven by factors such as gallstones, alcohol consumption, and diets high in saturated fats.

Doctors are observing a shift in patient demographics, with individuals in their 30s and 40s now being diagnosed, a change from previous trends where it primarily affected those over 60. While the exact reasons are not fully understood, lifestyle elements including food quality and exposure to pesticides are suspected contributors.

A significant challenge remains the late diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Its symptoms often appear only in advanced stages (3 or 4), making prognosis poor. Unlike other common cancers, routine screening is not feasible due to its rarity and unreliable current tests. High-risk individuals, such as those with a family history or chronic pancreatitis, are advised to undergo screening.

Preventive actions, including reducing alcohol and tobacco use, are crucial. While pancreatic cancer is more common in men, women are also increasingly diagnosed. Recent advancements in molecular and genetic diagnostics have improved treatment outcomes, enabling personalized therapies based on specific mutations. Surgical mortality has also decreased significantly in high-volume centers.