Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
Pancreatic cancer starts when abnormal cells grow in the pancreas. The pancreas helps digest food and controls blood sugar through insulin. As the tumor grows, it can block these functions, leading to pain, unexplained weight loss, or yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice). Early detection improves treatment results and survival rates.
Tip: In Houston's climate, staying active, eating a balanced diet, and not smoking may help lower your risk.
If you notice any of these signs, consult a specialist as soon as possible.
Dr. Chadha reviews your personal and family history, symptoms, risk factors (like smoking or pancreatitis), and performs a thorough abdominal exam.
Laboratory studies check pancreatic enzymes (amylase/lipase), liver function, bilirubin levels and tumor markers (CA 19-9) to screen for dysfunction or malignancy.
A thin endoscope with high-resolution ultrasound probes is guided into the stomach/duodenum to obtain precise images and tissue samples. Biopsy specimens confirm cancer and help determine its stage.
Once the diagnosis and stage are confirmed, Dr. Chadha tailors a personalized treatment plan'ranging from surgical consultation to chemotherapy, targeted therapy or minimally invasive procedures.
Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
Common risks include smoking, family history, and chronic inflammation of the pancreas.
Good nutrition supports treatment and helps your body stay strong, but it cannot cure the cancer alone.
Staging relies on imaging (CT, MRI) and biopsy results. Stage 4 means the cancer has spread beyond the pancreas.
Survival varies by stage. Early-stage detection has a better outlook. Dr. Chadha will discuss your individual prognosis.
Surgery depends on tumor size, location, and overall health. Some patients may benefit more from other treatments.
An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera and ultrasound probe to examine the pancreas and obtain tissue samples.
Tolerability varies by drug and patient. Dr. Chadha tailors the regimen and adjusts doses to manage side effects.
Yes. Dr. Chadha can refer you to local clinical trials exploring new treatment options.
During active treatment, visits are typically every 4-6 weeks. Follow-up appointments become less frequent once therapy is complete.
Yes. Dr. Chadha provides pain medications and lifestyle recommendations to help you remain as comfortable as possible.
