Pancreatic cancer begins when abnormal cells grow in the pancreas, a gland located behind your stomach that plays a key role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. Because early stages often show no symptoms, awareness and timely evaluation are critical for detection and treatment.
Early warning signs may be subtle or absent. As the disease progresses, you might notice:
While the exact trigger for pancreatic cancer isn't always clear, several factors raise your risk:
With a focus on compassionate, patient-centered pancreatic cancer care in Katy, GastroDoxs combines advanced diagnostics-such as endoscopic ultrasound, CT/MRI imaging, and CA 19-9 testing-with personalized treatment plans that may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and nutritional support. Our multidisciplinary team partners with you at every stage, offering expert guidance, risk-reduction strategies, and continuous emotional and clinical support to help you achieve the best possible outcomes and quality of life. Book an Appointment Now and let GastroDoxs be your trusted ally in 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.
Testing for pancreatic cancer may include imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI, endoscopic ultrasound with biopsy, and blood tests for tumor markers like CA 19-9.
Individuals who smoke, have a history of chronic pancreatitis, carry certain genetic mutations, or have close family members with pancreatic cancer face a higher risk.
While you can't eliminate all risk, preventive steps include avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and exercising regularly.
Early signs may include upper abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue, and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
Staging relies on imaging tests and biopsy results to determine the tumor's size and whether it has spread to lymph nodes or other organs.
Surgical removal (such as the Whipple procedure) is most effective in early stages. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted agents, or immunotherapy may be added based on individual needs.
Yes. Many institutions run clinical studies testing new drugs, combinations, and treatment approaches. Ask your specialist if you qualify for any ongoing trials.
Most patients stay in the hospital for about 7-10 days. Full recovery can take several weeks to months, with support from nutrition specialists and pain management teams.
Most major insurance plans cover recommended scans, biopsies, and standard treatments. Our staff can help verify your coverage and discuss any out-of-pocket costs.
If you experience persistent belly pain, unexplained weight loss, new-onset diabetes, or have a significant family history, schedule an evaluation with a gastroenterologist as soon as possible.
