Cancer is one of the diseases with the highest number of deaths in Kenya today. The disease seems difficult to treat once it passes stage two or three and requires much attention.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the cancers people lose their lives. It affects the pancreas which lies on the lower part of the stomach and later spreads to the organs nearby. Once detected, it is treated by radiation, surgery and chemotherapy or all these combined.
This cancer can be triggered by;
1. Smoking
This is one of the factors that can lead to pancreatic cancer. The smoke inhaled contains Nicotine, Hydrogen cyanide, Formaldehyde, Lead, Arsenic, Ammonia, Radioactive elements, such as uranium, Benzene, Carbon monoxide and Nitrosamines which hinder pancreatic functions.
2. Obesity
People who are overweight risk themselves to suffering from pancreatic cancer. Taking part in exercises to reduce body weight or even eating a healthy diet reduces a person's lifetime risk of developing or dying from cancer.
3. Inherited genes
Inherited genes can be passed from a parent to a child who has had pancreatic cancer before. Although the cases of these are rare, it is important to track your lineage and be conversant of any history of this cancer before you learnt about it late.
4. Pancreas inflammation
A prolonged inflammation of the pancreas can later result into a pancreatic cancer. It is therefore important to seek medical attention once you feel pain at the lower side of your stomach.