Pancreatic Cancer & Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.

Joydrop Wellness along with several others are saddened to hear that Congresswoman Sheila Jackson lee has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Congresswoman Sheila represents the state that I live in and I’ve met her several times at different events. I know that she will beat this because she’s a strong and determined lady. We send our prayers out to her and her family just like so many others have.

What Is Pancreatic Cancer Anyway?

According to the Mayo Clinic, Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the pancreas. The pancreas lies behind the lower part of the stomach. It makes enzymes that help digest food and hormones that help manage blood sugar.

The most common type of pancreatic cancer is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. This type begins in the cells that line the ducts that carry digestive enzymes out of the pancreas.

Pancreatic cancer rarely is found at its early stages when the chance of curing it is greatest. This is because it often doesn’t cause symptoms until after it has spread to other organs.

Your health care team considers the extent of your pancreatic cancer when creating your treatment plan. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or a mix of these.

What Are Some Symptoms.

Pancreatic cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms until the disease is advanced. When they happen, signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer may include:

• Belly pain that spreads to the sides or back.
• Loss of appetite.
• Weight loss.
• Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, called jaundice.
• Light-colored or floating stools.
• Dark-colored urine.
• Itching.
• New diagnosis of diabetes or diabetes that’s getting harder to control.
• Pain and swelling in an arm or leg, which might be caused by a blood clot.
• Tiredness or weakness.

Steps To Help Prevent Pancreatic Cancer.

Screening for people with a high risk of pancreatic cancer

Screening uses tests to look for signs of pancreatic cancer in people who don’t have symptoms. It might be an option if you have a very high risk of pancreatic cancer. Your risk might be high if you have a strong family history of pancreatic cancer or if you have an inherited DNA change that increases the risk of cancer. To learn more about pancreatic cancer visit https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pancreatic-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-2035542