Two Aggressive Cancers On The Rise

Any type of cancer diagnosis is difficult to deal with. But certain types of cancer are considered more aggressive and harder to treat. A few aggressive types of cancer appear to be on the rise.

Pancreatic Cancer Rates Increasing

The pancreas releases enzymes, which help aid in the digestion of foods.  It also releases hormones, which play a role in a variety of body functions.  Pancreatic cancer occurs in either of the two types of cells in the pancreas, which includes the exocrine and endocrine cells.

Pancreatic cancer is somewhat uncommon only accounting for about three percent of cancers diagnosed. But it accounts for about seven percent of cancer deaths in the United States. That number also appears to be on the rise. According to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, a recent study indicates pancreatic cancer is on the rise.

The rates of pancreatic cancer have slowly been rising for the past 15 years. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, it appears increased rates of diabetes and obesity in the country may be linked to the climbing incidence of pancreatic cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, the risk factors for developing pancreatic cancer include smoking, obesity, diabetes and having chronic pancreatitis. One frightening thing about pancreatic cancer is symptoms often do not present until the cancer is advanced, which makes it hard to detect in its early stage.

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer include abdominal pain, digestive problems, nausea, itchy skin and dark colored urine. Currently, there is not a routine screening for pancreatic cancer to help detect the disease early. But people who have several risk factors may want to speak with their doctor about endoscopic ultrasound, which is a new test performed in some people with a strong family history of the disease.  

Incidence Of Liver Cancer On The Rise For Certain Races

Along with pancreatic cancer, liver cancer is another aggressive cancer on the rise, according to the National Institutes of Health.

The statistics indicated the increase in liver cancer rates was seen in black, Hispanic and white men and black women, but not other racial populations.

Although additional research needs to be conducted, increased rates of hepatitis may be connected to the increases in liver cancer. In addition to hepatitis, other risk factors for developing the disease include heavy alcohol use, chronic cirrhosis and obesity.  Symptoms of liver cancer may vary depending on how advanced the disease is, but often include nausea, vomiting and swelling of the abdomen. Unintentional weight loss, yellowing of the skin and fatigue are also common.

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A routine screening for liver cancer is not currently being used. Once symptoms develop, blood tests, imaging studies, such as CT scans, and surgery to remove a tissue sample confirm a diagnosis. Treatment often includes surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.