~ Roger Magowitz
Things You Can Do To Reduce Pancreatic Cancer Risk Factors
Studies now show that pancreatic cancer grows slowly. It takes about 10 years for a mutated pancreatic cell to turn into cancer. And then it takes about another 7 years before billions of cancerous cells accumulate into a malignant tumor. It takes just a few cells to break-away and spread to other areas of the body. Once the cancer metastasize it becomes difficult to treat and survival rate diminishes. Read more about the slow development of pancreatic cancer.
There is A Wide Window of Opportunity
There is no prevention of pancreatic cancer. But there is a wide window of opportunity to try and mitigate pancreatic cancer risk factors that are within your control. Risk factors are described characteristics and unhealthy habits as well as envirnmental exposures that have been shown to increase the odds of developing cancer of the pancreas.
By reducing the risk factors, you can reduce the odds. Because of the slow development of cancer cells, the earlier you begin to control certain risk factors, the better. It is never too early to practice a healthier lifestyle that will help prevent getting this dreadful disease.
Pancreatic Cancer is Difficult To Detect
Unlike some other cancers there is no detection screening test and pancreatic cancer symptoms are very vague and often do not become noticeable until the cancer has spread outside the pancreas to other organs. Therefore it is very difficult to diagnose at its earliest stage when it is most treatable.
Things You Can Do To Minimize Risk
Diagnosed cases under 40 years-old are rare. But keep in mind it takes 10 years to manifest. That's why risk factors must be mitigated beginning at a very early age. Some risk factors can not be altered such as gender, race, genetic predisposition or advancing age. But there are many risks within your control of which many are related to healthy lifestyle changes.
- If you do, quit. Cigarette smoking is a major risk.
- Even if it does not lessen risk, you will be stronger to deal with some pretty tough treatment if your are ever stricken with the disease.
- Studies that obesity is a major risk factor. Maintain lean body weight. Enjoy that steak once in a while but try to avoid too much red meat and foods with high fat content.
- Studies show that these nutrients from natural foods lessen risk. However, some studies also show taking supplements will actually increase risk. Studies are often not conclusive, but eating the foods that contain these essentials can only improve resistance to risk.
- Some studies show that low dosages of aspirin does lower the risk of pancreatic cancer. Besides, the stronger one's heart, the better they will be able to successfully handle rigorous treatment and even surgery if you ever contract pancreatic cancer.
- The best source of Vitamin D is sunlight making outdoor activities a good way to help avoid risk.
- Although symptoms are vague and very similar to those of other less serious issues, be aware of those pancreatic cancer symptoms. This is particularly true if you notice the existence of multiple symptoms and you are in the high risk categories. Discuss any concerns with your physician.
- Missed diagnosis costs many lives. Take control of your own health. Don't accept one opinion whether or not first opinions are positive or negative.
Again, it is important to emphasize that the earlier you begin a regimen of self-reducing the risk factors, the better. If you are a parent, make sure your children practice healthy lifestyles and are aware of the risk factors.
More Reading
- Pancreatic Cancer Risk Factors
- Symptoms of Cancer of The Pancreas
- African Americans Are At Greater Risk
- Ashkenazi Jewish Genetic Risk
- The Diabetes Risk
Seena Magowitz Pancreatic Cancer Foundation does not intend to provide specific medical advice. It only provides general information to help users better understand their health. SMF urges all users to always consult with qualified physicians for any diagnosis or answers to specific questions.
