A New Study Shows A Rise In Pancreatic Cancer Cases Amongst Women Under 55

Pancreatic cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the pancreas, and for the longest time, we've never really had to think about how deadly it can be. While deaths caused due to cancer have been on a downward trend over the past couple of years, there has been an alarming rise in the cases of one particular cancer in a specific demographic—pancreatic cancer in young women.

As per a study, while the rates of pancreatic cancer were relatively similar amongst older Americans, the rate of disease amongst women younger than 55 rose 2.4% higher than men in the same age bracket. But why is this disturbing phenomenon occurring? Can we do anything to prevent it? Here's what cancer experts have shared so far.

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What Is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the pancreas, which is a gland located in the abdomen that produces enzymes to aid in digestion and hormones to regulate blood sugar levels. Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably, forming a mass or tumor.

There are different types of pancreatic cancer, but the most common type is adenocarcinoma, which starts in the cells that line the ducts of the pancreas. Pancreatic cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages, and symptoms may not appear until cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

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Why Are Cases Rising Amongst Younger Women?

This new revelation isn't as sudden as you might think. Doctors themselves have been reporting a younger average age of pancreatic cancer patients, even before this information was revealed in the study.

While studies haven't been able to pinpoint a particular cause of this cancer, here are some reasons why cases might be rising among young women:

Pancreatic cancer cases are indeed increasing in young women, although the reasons for this are not entirely clear. However, there are a few possible factors that could be contributing to this trend:

1. Obesity: The incidence of obesity is increasing globally, and it is a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer. It is possible that the rise in obesity rates in young women is contributing to the increase in pancreatic cancer cases.
2. Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is also increasing in younger populations, and it has been linked to an increased risk of this cancer. Some researchers have suggested that the rise in diabetes rates among young women could be playing a role.
3. Environmental factors: There are a variety of environmental factors that may contribute to the development of this cancer, including exposure to certain chemicals, pollutants, and toxins. Some researchers have suggested that young women may be exposed to more of these factors than in the past.

Do your bit to prevent the risk of cancer. (image via pexels/Shvets production)

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Symptoms Of Pancreatic Cancer

Here are some symptoms of this cancer that patients mostly experience:

1. Abdominal pain or discomfort
2. Jaundice
3. Unexplained weight loss
4. Loss of appetite
5. Nausea and vomiting
6. Changes in bowel movements
7. New-onset diabetes

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How To Prevent Pancreatic Cancer?

While there's no certain way to prevent it, here's how you can do your bit to stay healthy and reduce the risk of contracting this cancer:

1. Maintain a healthy weight
2. Quit smoking
3. Limit alcohol consumption
4. Eat a healthy diet
5. Get regular exercise
6. Manage diabetes
7. Get regular checkups

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While the rise in cases of this cancer is certainly alarming, it's important to stay fit and healthy. If you do your bit, you'll drastically lower the risk of contracting this cancer, amongst others. If you feel like you're developing the aforementioned symptoms, it would be beneficial to seek medical attention.