Western lifestyle main cause for surge in Pancreatic Cancer in India: Experts

Pancreatic cancer has been on a steady rise over the last 5-10 years can be attributed to dietary shifts associated with Western lifestyles such as increased consumption of processed foods, high-fat diets, and sugary beverages, said doctors at Amrita Hospital Faridabad. Additionally, such lifestyle patterns are more prevalently noticed in men, exposing them to twice more at risk than women.

Pancreatic cancer is especially challenging due to its typically late-stage diagnosis, high mortality rate, and lack of effective early detection methods. The disease often remains asymptomatic until it progresses significantly, with common symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, jaundice, and new-onset diabetes emerging only in advanced stages.

Dr. Puneet Dhar, HoD, GI Surgery, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, said, “Pancreatic cancer demographics reveal a marked disparity between urban and rural populations, with urban areas exhibiting higher rates due to increased processed food consumption and sedentary lifestyles. Men in India are approximately twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer as women, partly due to higher rates of smoking and alcohol consumption, both significant risk factors. Older adults, particularly those over the age of 50, also face increased risk, likely due to cumulative exposure to lifestyle risk factors over time. These lifestyle changes, combined with environmental stressors such as pollution, are creating a health crisis that necessitates immediate attention to diet and lifestyle modifications.”

It’s crucial to focus on preventive measures, early detection strategies, and risk factor management. Pancreatic cancer is a challenging disease to detect early due to its asymptomatic nature in the initial stages. Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent pancreatic cancer, certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk. Improved diagnostic techniques such as CT scans, MRI, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) have facilitated earlier detection compared to a decade ago.

Dr. Saleem Naik, Senior Consultant, GI Surgery, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad said, “Smoking remains the most significant modifiable risk factor for pancreatic cancer, so quitting is one of the most impactful steps you can take to reduce your risk. For non-smokers, avoiding secondhand smoke exposure is equally important. Additionally, a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, along with reduced intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and trans fats, supports a healthier pancreas. Obesity and excessive alcohol intake also elevate pancreatic cancer risks, particularly when paired with smoking. Regular physical activity, such as 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce cancer risk, and promote better overall metabolic health.”

Genetic factors also contribute to pancreatic cancer risk, particularly among individuals with hereditary syndromes like BRCA mutations, though these cases remain relatively rare. Current treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer are largely stage-dependent, with surgery remaining the only potentially curative option. Unfortunately, most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, limiting treatment options. Emerging research into targeted therapies and immunotherapies is ongoing, though significant breakthroughs remain to be seen.

“EUS is considered one of the most effective tools for detecting pancreatic cancer in its early stages, especially in high-risk individuals. This test uses a special ultrasound device placed in the stomach to obtain detailed images of the pancreas. It can detect small tumors that might not be visible on other imaging tests. Patients with high suspicion for pancreatic cancer can undergo a CT/MRI of the abdomen to pick up the cancer at an early stage. The CA 19-9 blood test is often used as a biomarker for pancreatic cancer However, it is not specific enough for early detection, as elevated levels can be seen in other conditions (e.g., liver disease, other cancers). Still, it may be used in conjunction with imaging for those at high risk,” said Dr. Jaya Agarwal, Consultant, GI Surgery, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad.