Introduction: What is Pancreatic Cancer?

The pancreas is an organ located above your stomach in the abdomen. It produces hormones insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar levels in the body. Pancreatic cancer starts anywhere in the gland, and around 9000 people are diagnosed with it in the UK. The severity of pancreatic cancer depends upon its size, stage, extent of spread and general health.

 

In the early stages, pancreatic cancer may not cause symptoms. As cancer advances, a few symptoms may appear, including– jaundice (yellow colouration of eyes, itchy skin, dark urine, pale stools), loss of appetite, unexplained and unintended weight loss, fatigue, and fever.

Though anyone can get pancreatic cancer, it is more common in people over 75. Individuals with a family history of pancreatic cancer or personal history of long-term pancreatitis also have a greater risk of developing this condition.

How Is Pancreatic Cancer Treated?

Based on your diagnostic test results, your doctor and multidisciplinary healthcare team will talk to you about the most suitable treatment plan. 

 

Your pancreatic cancer treatment plan will depend upon the following factors:

• Type and stage of your cancer
• Location and extent of spread
• Grade of pancreatic cancer
• Your age, overall health and fitness

 

Your treatment options are based on if your cancer is resectable (can be removed by surgery), borderline resectable (the tumour is close to a vital structure like a blood vessel or nerve, and it is unclear if surgery is possible) or unresectable (cancer cannot be removed by surgery).

 

Standard treatment options for pancreatic cancer are:

• Surgery

Surgery is usually the primary treatment for pancreatic cancer and aims to remove as much cancerous tissue as possible. It can help cure early-stage pancreatic cancer. Your doctor and surgical team will evaluate the benefits, and side effects of surgery for your pancreatic cancer as recovery from surgery may take longer.

 

In some advanced cases, surgery may not be able to cure cancer but may help alleviate symptoms. 

 

• Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses strong anti-cancer drugs to treat cancer. In pancreatic cancer, chemotherapy may be used for the following:

 

• To control symptoms when surgery is not possible 
• Before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink the tumour and facilitate its easy removal
• After surgery (adjuvant therapy) to prevent a recurrence 
• To treat early-stage cancers

 

• Radiation therapy

This treatment uses intense x-rays or other types of radiation to damage or kill cancer cells and prevent their growth. Though it is not the first choice of treatment for pancreatic cancers, it may be used in the following scenarios:

 

• To treat early-stage cancer that cannot be removed by surgery (usually along with chemotherapy)
• With chemotherapy before surgery to make the tumour smaller
• To control symptoms and prolong the life of the individual in advanced stages (unresectable and metastatic pancreatic cancer)

How Can Klarity Oncology Help?

Undergoing pancreatic cancer treatment can be physically, mentally and emotionally draining. We understand! So, at Klarity Oncology, we strive to make cancer care simple, affordable, accessible and easy to use. 

Our dedicated cancer care team walks with you at each step of your cancer care journey to keep you informed about your doctor visits, follow-ups, and second opinion consultations and give you control of your health. If you need help with your diagnosis or treatment plan, contact us at Klarity Oncology today!

 

Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Cost in the UK

The average cost of pancreatic cancer is similar across the UK, with variations seen due to individual factors. It is essential to know that the cost of pancreatic cancer treatment is higher in private healthcare facilities than in public or government-funded facilities. The treatment cost will also be higher for people without health insurance. Other factors that govern your treatment costs are the type and duration of your treatment.

How is Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Cost Calculated?

Pancreatic cancer treatment affects each person differently, so the treatment plan and cost also vary. Your pancreatic cancer treatment cost is calculated based on the following factors:

• Characteristics and nature of your cancer
• Doctor visits and charges
• Hospital stay charges
• Travel expenses
• Outpatient treatment procedures and sessions
• Medication costs
• Tests required for monitoring treatment progression
• Participation in clinical trials
• Symptomatic management

 

The treatment costs provided to you initially are usually an estimate. The actuals may vary as your treatment progresses.

 

Talk to Us

If you require any help with a second opinion for your pancreatic cancer or are unclear about any part of your treatment plan, contact us for cancer care and support