Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in India

Overview

Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cell growth leads to tumors in the pancreas—a key organ behind the stomach responsible for digestion and blood sugar regulation. Due to difficulty in early detection, it is often diagnosed at advanced stages.

India offers quality and cost-effective treatment for pancreatic cancer with access to advanced hospitals and experienced oncologists.

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Functions of the Pancreas

Exocrine Functions:

• Lipase: Breaks down fats
• Protease: Breaks down proteins
• Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates

Endocrine Functions:

• Insulin: Regulates blood sugar
• Glucagon: Increases blood sugar as needed
• Gastrin & Amylin: Aid digestion and protect the stomach

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Causes of Pancreatic Cancer

• Tobacco use (25% of cases)
• Obesity (20% higher risk)
• Chemical exposure (industrial settings)
• Genetic mutations
• Age (most common in 60–70 age group)
• Gender (more common in men)
• Poor diet & physical inactivity

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Symptoms

• Jaundice
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Liver or gallbladder enlargement
• Blood clots
• Diabetes
• Nausea, vomiting, poor appetite

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Diagnosis

• Blood Tests
• CT Scan
• Ultrasound
• MRI
• Biopsy

Early detection is critical for successful treatment.

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Treatment Options

1. Surgery

• Curative Surgery: For operable tumors (e.g., Whipple procedure)
• Palliative Surgery: To relieve symptoms when cancer is advanced

2. Chemotherapy

• Oral or IV drugs to slow tumor growth

3. Radiation Therapy

• X-rays or proton beams to destroy cancer cells

4. Clinical Trials

• For new or experimental treatment approaches

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Cost Factors in India

• Type of treatment (surgery, chemo, radiation)
• Hospital reputation and location
• Surgeon’s expertise
• Diagnostic and imaging costs
• Duration of hospital stay and aftercare

India offers 50–60% lower costs than Western countries.

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Why Choose India?

• World-class hospitals and advanced technology
• Accredited by NABH and JCI
• Experienced oncology teams
• Affordable medical tourism packages
• Personalized treatment plans

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How to cope emotionally with a cancer diagnosis?
A: Discuss concerns with your doctor, explore relaxation techniques, and consider therapy or support groups.

Q: Is there a non-surgical option?
A: Yes. Nano-knife technology uses electric pulses to destroy tumors, though it's limited to select facilities.

Q: Can a person live without a pancreas?
A: Yes, with dietary adjustments and medications to manage digestion and blood sugar.

Q: Are medications alone sufficient?
A: Rarely. Surgery offers better long-term survival, especially if done early.

Q: Is pancreatic cancer curable?
A: Only if caught early. Awareness and early diagnosis greatly improve survival.

Q: What are the side effects of treatment?
A:

• Appetite loss
• Fatigue
• Nausea/vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Fluid retention
• Skin issues