Pancreatic cancer has seen a steady increase over the past 5-10 years, with experts linking this increase to the adoption of unhealthy dietary habits.

Processed foods, high-fat diets and sugary beverages are the major culprits, according to doctors. Men are particularly at risk, being twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer as women, largely due to higher rates of smoking and alcohol consumption.

“Pancreatic cancer rates are higher in urban areas compared to rural areas,” said Dr Puneet Dhar, head of GI surgery at Amrita Hospital.

“This has been attributed to increased consumption of processed food and an inactive lifestyle,” said Dr Dhar. Seniors above 50 years of age face a higher risk due to prolonged exposure to lifestyle-related factors. “Environmental stressors such as pollution further aggravate this health crisis.”

Pancreatic cancer is extremely difficult to detect early, as symptoms such as weight loss, abdominal pain, jaundice and new-onset diabetes often appear only in the advanced stages.

Despite advances in diagnostic methods, the disease remains highly fatal, with most cases diagnosed too late for curative treatment.

“Smoking remains the most important modifiable risk factor,” said Dr Salim Naik, senior consultant in GI surgery. “Quitting smoking, avoiding passive smoking, and maintaining a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins while reducing processed foods and sugary drinks are important steps to reduce risk. Regular physical activity, such as 150 minutes weekly Minutes of moderate exercise, it also supports metabolic health and reduces the risk of cancer.”

Advances in diagnostic tools, including endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), CT scanning, and MRI, have improved early detection.

“EUS is particularly effective for identifying small tumors, especially in high-risk individuals,” said Dr. Jaya Agarwal, consultant in GI surgery.

Blood tests such as CA 19-9, although not specific for early detection, can complement imaging in identifying high-risk patients.

Treatment of pancreatic cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis, with surgery being the only curative option for early-stage cases. However, late diagnosis often limits treatment options.

Emerging therapies, including targeted and immunotherapies, are under research, but have not yet achieved significant success.

Doctors agreed that increasing public awareness about pancreatic cancer risk factors and promoting preventive lifestyle changes are essential to curb its increasing prevalence.