Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic Cancer Treatment at Garnet Health

Pancreatic cancer patients at Garnet Health benefit from the multidisciplinary expertise of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, interventional radiologists and other experts who collaborate to create treatment plans tailored just for you. By blending advanced treatment techniques like robotic surgery and clinical trials with compassionate and individualized care, we help patients achieve the best possible outcomes and quality of life. 

As a Garnet Health patient, you’ll receive the support and guidance you need to make educated decisions during every phase of the pancreatic cancer care process. Our services extend far beyond clinical treatment; you’ll have access to cancer support groups, assistance from dedicated patient navigators, and survivorship services to help you overcome the unique challenges of living with pancreatic cancer. 

Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Symptoms 

Pancreatic cancer typically does not cause obvious symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer grows, the following symptoms may develop: 

• A yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) 
• Back or abdominal pain 
• Light-colored stools 
• Unusually dark urine 
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Loss of appetite 
• An enlarged liver or gallbladder 
• Fatigue 
• New or worsening diabetes  

It’s important to promptly speak with a doctor if you notice any of the above symptoms. Pancreatic cancer is uncommon, and can be ruled out only by a medical professional. 

Causes

The processes that trigger pancreatic cancer growth are not well understood. However, researchers have identified multiple factors that may increase one’s likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. These include:

• Smoking 
• Having pancreatitis 
• Being obese 
• Having diabetes 
• Advanced age  
• A family history of certain genetic syndromes, including Lynch syndrome and BRCA2 gene mutation

Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that you will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and it’s possible to develop pancreatic cancer without any known risk factors. If any of the above risk factors apply to you, it’s a good idea to be particularly mindful of pancreatic cancer symptoms and speak with a doctor if they occur. 

Treatment 

Many pancreatic cancer treatment plans focus on slowing the spread of disease and treatment to relieve symptoms. Common treatment approaches for pancreatic cancer include:

• Surgery to remove tumors, a portion of the pancreas, or the entire pancreas and surrounding structures
• Chemotherapy and radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors 
• Targeted therapy to impede the processes that promote cancer growth 
• Palliative care to ease symptoms of cancer and its treatment

Your doctor will be able to walk you through your treatment options and carefully explain the risks and benefits of each. 

Garnet Health provides pancreatic cancer treatment to patients in Orange County, Sullivan County and nearby communities.