Following the sad news of actor Patrick Swayze’s death at the age of 57, University College and Princess Grace Hospital Consultant Surgeon Arjun Shankar talking to totalhealth’s Bob Davidson, gives an upbeat message for patients diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas.
He says: “Things are changing. Over recent years there have been significant advances in the treatment of pancreas cancer, which traditionally carried a poor outcome. All patients are now managed in specialist pancreas cancer centres and particular progress has been made in chemotherapy (both pre and post operatively as well as in palliation). There have also been good advances leading to more aggressive surgical techniques - sometimes involving the removal of associated tumour blood supply, targeted radiotherapy and non surgical palliative interventions. Patients in the UK should feel confident that they have access to the highest quality of healthcare via the NHS and via NHS / private sector collaborations comparable to anywhere in the World. For example, Harley Street at UCH is a pioneering collaboration between two highly respected London hospitals that delivers world-class treatments for cancers.”
Arjun Shankar has written an article for totalhealth to update patients on some of the latest surgical treatments for hernias – in plain English.
A fluid that transports oxygen and other substances through the body, made up of blood cells suspended in a liquid.
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Abnormal, uncontrolled cell division resulting in a malignant tumour that may invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant parts of the body.
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The use of chemical substances to treat disease, particularly cancer.
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When part of an organ pushes through the wall of the body cavity that normally holds it. Hernias can develop in many different parts of the body.
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A large abdominal organ that has many important roles including the production of bile and clotting factors, detoxification, and the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats.
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A therapy that gives relief from the symptoms of a disease rather than impacting on its course. Often known as 'end of life' care.
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A gland behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and the hormones insulin and glucagon, which together regulate glucose levels in the blood.
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A glandular organ that secretes digestive enzymes and hormones.
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The treatment of disease using radiation.
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An abnormal swelling.
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