PANCREATIC CANCER
Pancreatic cancer is a disease in which cells become abnormal and multiply without control or order and form a malignant tumor in the tissues of the pancreas.
The pancreas is a gland about 6 inches long that is shaped like a thin tadpole lying on its side. It lies behind the stomach and in front of the spine. The wider end of the pancreas is called the head, the middle section is called the body, and the narrow end is called the tail. The pancreas has "exocrine" cells that produce juices to help digest food; and, "endocrine" cells that produce hormones, such as insulin and glucagons. These help control blood sugar levels, and help the body use and store energy from food. About 95% of pancreatic cancers begin in exocrine cells.
RISK FACTORS for developing pancreatic cancer include:
*Smoking
*Age: most cases occur in people over age 60
*Race: Black people have pancreatic cancer more often than Asians, Hispanics or whites
*Obesity or being overweight......
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