Dr Oz: Pancreatic Cancer
This special edition of Dr Oz focused on cancer warning signs that you can learn so you are able to know what to watch out for. Certain cancers advance quickly and there is nothing that can be done by the time they begin to show symptoms. Dr Oz said that Pancreatic Cancer is the one you’re most likely to miss, making it a deadly disease. He shared some Pancreatic Cancer risk factors and symptoms that will hopefully help educate people. Share this with friends and family so they can be in the know as well.
Each year, about 44,000 Americans are diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. About 85% of them will die from this disease. Patrick Swayze is an example of a famous person who was killed by Pancreatic Cancer. The Pancreas is deep in the anatomy, which is one of the reasons it’s difficult to detect in the early stages, allowing it to grow before you even know it’s there.
Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms
- Weight Loss
- Abdominal or Back Pain
- Clay or White Stool
According to Dr Elizabeth Jaffee, there aren’t many reliable screening tests for Pancreatic Cancer, so by the time you are having symptoms, surgery is typically not an effective option. Dr Steve Standiford said that knowing your risks can help you be on the lookout for any type of cancer.
Dr Oz: Healthy Vs Cancerous Pancreas
Dr Oz compared a healthy Pancreas to one with cancer. The cancerous organ was more rigid because it was being suffocated. Dr Oz explained that the Pancreas is hidden behind the stomach, below the gallbladder and near the intestines. He said that this location makes it difficult to notice, and in some cases the body will try to digest your own Pancreas.
Dr Oz: Pancreatic Cancer Risks
Dr Oz shared some important risk factors for people concerned about their potential for Pancreatic Cancer. Here are the signs you might want to ask your doctor about.
Family History
Curcumin, found in the spice Turmeric, is believed to slow or prevent the growth of Pancreatic Cancer cells.
If two or more of your family members have had Ovarian, Breast, or Pancreatic Cancer, this is a big risk factor. Roughly 10% of cases are believed to be genetically transmitted from your parents.
Anyone who has a family member under the age of 50 with one of these types of Cancer should know they have an increased genetic risk. A geneticist may be able to help you pinpoint your personal risk assessment.
Alcohol & Soda
If you drink more than one alcoholic beverage daily, or more than two sodas weekly, that is a risk factor. Drinking a large amount of Alcohol over time can cause Pancreatitis, which can lead to Pancreatic Cancer. Dr Jaffee said that studies also suggest that sugary drinks may be related to Pancreatic Cancer, but research on this correlation continues.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes can also put you at further risk for Pancreatic Cancer. Too much Insulin in your system could spur cancerous cells to grow.
If you are concerned about your risk, ask your doctor for more information. Be sure to discuss your family history as well, and explore the possibility of genetic, blood, or ultrasound testing.
Dr Oz: Pancreatic Cancer Fighters
Dr Oz shared a few ideas for lowering your risk, if you think you fall into an at risk population for Pancreatic Cancer.
Cut Back on Meat
Reduce your intake of fatty, red meats or processed deli and lunch meat. Dr Standiford explained that one study correlated a diet of well done, red, or processed meat with an increased Pancreatic Cancer risk.
Red & Yellow Veggies
Try adding a couple servings of red or yellow vegetables to your dinner. They contain Flavonoids that can help fight cancer. Think of Tomatoes, Yams, Squash, or Red and Yellow Peppers. A balanced diet should include about five servings of fruit and veggies every day.
Curcumin
Dr Oz also mentioned Curcumin, with a 750 mg dosage twice per day. This is also found in Turmeric, and in research it’s been shown to slow or possibly prevent Pancreatic Cancer.
Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Center
Dr Oz said that the Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center at Johns Hopkins is leading the charge in Pancreatic Cancer research. It was started in honor Lillian Goodman. He encouraged interested viewers to make donations online to fund research.
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