Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is notoriously difficult to detect early, since the pancreas sits deep in the abdomen and symptoms often appear only once the disease has progressed. Most cases involve the exocrine portion of the pancreas, with adenocarcinoma being by far the most frequent form diagnosed. The Department of Cancer at UMC Victoria Hospital approaches pancreatic cancer treatment in Uganda with a focus on rapid, thorough staging:

  • Cross-sectional imaging
    CT and MRI to assess tumour location and involvement of nearby vessels
  • Biopsy confirmation
    tissue sampling to establish diagnosis
  • Surgical resection
    Whipple procedure or other surgery for operable tumours
  • Chemotherapy
    used before surgery to shrink tumours or after to reduce recurrence
  • Pain and nutrition management
    addressing the practical burdens of advanced disease

Unexplained abdominal or back pain paired with weight loss is a combination that merits prompt investigation, given how quickly this cancer can advance. Consult a cancer expert for further assistance.