Pancreatic cancer is often called a silent disease. Its symptoms can be subtle, and many patients don’t realize something is wrong until the cancer has progressed.
But understanding the warning signs and risk factors can make a meaningful difference.
At FMOL Health | Our Lady of the Lake, specialists are using advanced technology, innovative surgical techniques and coordinated care to improve outcomes for patients facing this challenging disease.
Mo Al Efishat, MD, surgical oncologist at Our Lady of the Lake, recently joined Medical Monday on Talk 107.3 to discuss pancreatic cancer and advances in treatment.
Why Pancreatic Cancer Is So Challenging
The pancreas helps regulate blood sugar and digestion. Because pancreatic cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms, many patients are diagnosed after the disease has spread or involved nearby blood vessels.
“Only about 20% of patients present at a stage where the disease is surgically removable,” Dr. Mo explains.
Recognizing potential warning signs can help patients seek medical attention sooner.
An Unexpected Warning Sign: Diabetes
One surprising indicator of pancreatic cancer is a sudden diabetes diagnosis, particularly in adults over 50 without obvious risk factors.
“If you are of normal weight and the age of 50 and all of a sudden you become diabetic, then your primary care physician will test you,” Dr. Mo says.
Other warning signs include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools and abdominal pain that radiates to the back. These symptoms should prompt a conversation with a healthcare provider.
Understanding Your Risk Factors
Smoking and obesity are among the strongest modifiable risk factors for pancreatic cancer. Chronic pancreatitis, diabetes and alcohol consumption may also increase risk.
Family history is another important consideration. While routine pancreatic cancer screening isn’t recommended for the general population, certain high-risk patients may qualify.
Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute offers a high-risk pancreatic cancer screening program that uses ongoing imaging to monitor eligible patients for concerning changes.
How AI Is Helping Monitor Pancreatic Cysts
Some pancreatic abnormalities are discovered unexpectedly during imaging for unrelated medical concerns.
Through its pancreatic cyst clinic, Our Lady of the Lake uses Eon technology, which incorporates artificial intelligence, to identify and track pancreatic cysts found on imaging scans.
While many cysts are harmless, certain types can develop into cancer over time.
“We make sure that these cysts are followed,” Dr. Mo says. “Some of these cysts have a risk of progression into cancer.”
This monitoring helps physicians recognize concerning changes and determine when intervention may be necessary.
Advanced Surgery and Personalized Treatment
Pancreatic cancer treatment often involves surgery, chemotherapy, targeted medications or radiation, depending on the patient’s diagnosis.
Our Lady of the Lake offers advanced robotic surgical techniques for complex pancreatic procedures, including the Whipple procedure. These minimally invasive approaches use smaller incisions when appropriate.
“In order to win the war, we have multiple battles that we have to go through,” Dr. Mo says.
Bringing Specialists Together for Better Care
At Our Lady of the Lake, pancreatic cancer cases are reviewed by a multidisciplinary tumor board that includes surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and other specialists.
Together, they develop treatment plans that address each patient’s medical, nutritional and emotional needs.
With a dedicated facility for Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute being built, this collaboration will be strengthened through a coordinated approach that allows patients to meet with multiple specialists during a single visit, simplifying appointments and reducing the burden on families.
Taking Charge of Your Pancreatic Health
Knowing your family history, recognizing unusual symptoms and maintaining regular visits with your primary care provider can help identify potential concerns.
For patients at increased risk, specialized surveillance and access to advanced treatment provide additional opportunities for proactive care.
