Pancreatic cancer begins in the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that helps digest food and regulate blood sugar. Early stages often produce no symptoms, making this disease hard to detect until it advances.
Though it may be silent at first, pancreatic cancer can cause:
The exact cause isn't always known, but these factors raise your risk:
Don't wait to address your symptoms or concerns-early intervention can be life-changing. At GastroDoxs in Houston, our board-certified specialists deliver rapid diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate support every step of the way. From advanced imaging and minimally invasive biopsies to access to cutting-edge clinical trials, we’re committed to your best possible outcome. Book your appointment today and partner with a team that truly understands pancreatic cancer care.
We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
The survival rate depends on the stage at diagnosis. Early detection significantly improves 5-year survival, while later stages have lower overall survival rates.
Yes. Although stage 4 is not curable, chemotherapy and targeted therapies can help relieve symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life.
Early-stage pancreatic cancer may be cured with surgery (such as the Whipple procedure). Most advanced cases cannot be cured, but treatment can extend life and enhance comfort.
About 10% of pancreatic cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations. Genetic testing and counseling can help identify hereditary risk in you and your family.
Pancreatic cancer often grows silently and spreads before causing noticeable symptoms, making early diagnosis difficult and contributing to its high fatality rate.
Contact GastroDoxs to connect with experienced pancreatic cancer specialists in Houston. We'll guide you to the right team for diagnosis and treatment.
Key risk factors include smoking, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, obesity, and a family history of pancreatic cancer. Addressing modifiable factors may help reduce risk.
Diagnosis often involves imaging (CT scan, MRI, endoscopic ultrasound) and tissue sampling via biopsy to confirm the presence and stage of cancer.
Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can cause fatigue, nausea, appetite changes, digestive issues, and blood sugar fluctuations, all of which can be managed with supportive care.
Maintaining good nutrition, staying active as tolerated, seeking mental health support, and managing symptoms proactively can help improve comfort and quality of life during treatment.
