Pancreatic cancer develops when abnormal cells form and multiply in the pancreas, a gland located behind your stomach that aids digestion and regulates blood sugar. It often grows silently at first, making early detection crucial to improving outcomes.
Pancreatic cancer may not cause noticeable signs early on. As it advances, you might experience:
The exact trigger for pancreatic cancer isn't always clear, but several factors raise your risk:
At GastroDoxs in Cypress, we specialize in comprehensive pancreatic cancer care tailored to you. From advanced diagnostic testing and personalized treatment plans to the latest clinical trials, our board-certified specialists prioritize your comfort and long-term health. You'll receive one-on-one guidance, clear answers at every step, and compassionate support for both you and your loved ones.
Don't wait to get the expert care you deserve. Book an appointment today with our pancreatic cancer specialists and take the first step toward a clearer path forward.
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.
Early symptoms can include persistent upper abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, a feeling of fullness after small meals, and sudden changes in blood sugar levels.
Signs that pancreatic cancer may have spread include worsening or radiating pain (often to the back), new onset jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), unexplained blood clots, and other systemic symptoms like fatigue or weight loss.
Certain tumor markers, such as CA 19-9, can be elevated in pancreatic cancer, but they are not definitive. Blood tests are used alongside imaging studies and biopsies to confirm a diagnosis.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of imaging tests (CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound), blood tests for tumor markers, and often a biopsy to examine tissue samples under a microscope.
Life expectancy varies widely depending on the stage at diagnosis, overall health, and treatment response. Early detection and treatment generally offer better survival rates.
For stage 4 disease, most patients live several months to a year, though some respond well to newer therapies and clinical trials, which can extend survival and improve quality of life.
A metallic or bitter taste can result from the cancer itself or as a side effect of chemotherapy. This taste alteration is common and often improves once treatment ends.
Yes. At GastroDoxs, we welcome patients seeking second opinions. Our board-certified gastroenterologists review your records, imaging, and pathology to help guide your care.
Key questions include details about your specific diagnosis and stage, recommended treatments and their side effects, eligibility for clinical trials, and available support services.
While they can't cure cancer, healthy habits-such as eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking, staying active, and staying hydrated-support overall well-being and may improve treatment tolerance.
