Pancreas Cancer
Lee Health: Pancreatic Center of Excellence
The Lee Health Cancer Institute is dedicated to providing exceptional care for pancreatic cancer patients. We bring together a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive services and treatments personalized for each patient. With cutting-edge technologies and a patient-centered approach, we strive to achieve the best outcomes for our patients.
What is pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer occurs when cells multiply out of control and a mass of tissue grows within the pancreas. Sometimes this mass is benign (not cancerous) or can become malignant (cancerous).
There are two types of tumors that can grow in the pancreas: exocrine and neuroendocrine tumors. About 93% of all pancreatic tumors are exocrine tumors, and the most common kind of pancreatic cancer is called adenocarcinoma.
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Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Cancer Clinic - Bonita Health Center
3501 Health Center Blvd Estero, FL 34135
What are the symptoms of pancreas cancer?
Your doctor might suspect pancreatic cancer if you have some symptoms and you’ve recently developed diabetes or pancreatitis — a painful condition due to the inflammation of the pancreas. Most people don’t experience early signs of pancreatic cancer. As the disease progresses, however, people may notice:
- Blood clots in the body
- New or worsening diabetes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back
- Loss of appetite
- Light-colored poop
- Dark-colored pee
- Weight loss
Who does this cancer affect?
According to the American Cancer Society, pancreatic cancer represents approximately 3% of all cancers and 7% of all cancer deaths in the United States. It occurs slightly more often in men than in women.
How is Pancreatic Cancer Treated
Pancreatic cancer treatment depends on where the tumor is located, what stage it is in, how healthy you are, and whether or not the cancer has spread beyond the pancreas. Our surgical oncology team is able to provide the Whipple procedure, distal pancreatectomy and total pancreatectomy. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures every patient receives a personalized treatment plan designed for the best possible outcomes.
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Distal Pancreatectomy and Pancreatosplenectomy
Surgical oncology for Distal Pancreatectomy and Pancreatosplenectomy focused on early detection, precise intervention, and personalized cancer treatment surgery.
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Pancreatic Surgery
Explore pancreatic surgery options at Lee Health. Our experienced surgeons specialize in treating pancreatic cancer, cysts, and other conditions with advanced surgical techniques for optimal outcomes.
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Whipple Procedure
Discover life-saving options for pancreatic cancer at Lee Health. Learn about the Whipple procedure, a complex surgery performed by experienced surgeons to extend life and improve outcomes for eligible patients.
Our surgical oncology team is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs. Learn more about scheduling an appointment with our team below.
Surgical Oncology for Southwest Florida
We’re proud to be the only surgical oncology team from Tampa to Miami offering advanced cancer treatment through surgery. Our specialists remove cancer at its source—providing expert, life-saving care right here in Southwest Florida.
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Surgical Oncology
Lee Health Cancer Institute's surgical oncology surgeons provide advanced, personalized treatment for cancer, supporting you every step of the way to recovery.
What are the stages of pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is categorized into five different stages. Depending on the size and location of the tumor and whether or not cancer has spread to other areas.
- Stage 0: Abnormal cells in the lining of the pancreas. The cells could become cancerous and spread to nearby tissue.
- Stage 1: The tumor is in the pancreas.
- Stage 2: The tumor is in the pancreas and has either spread to nearby tissues, organs, or lymph nodes.
- Stage 3: Cancer has spread to major blood vessels near the pancreas. It may have also spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage 4: Cancer has spread to distant areas in the body, such as the liver, lungs, or abdominal cavity. It has possibly spread to organs, tissues, or lymph nodes near the pancreas.
Find a cancer specialist today and they can help get you in touch with a surgical oncologist. Click 'show more' to view all physicians
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Spencer Michalke MD
Lee Physician Group
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Ashley LaPierre PA-C
Lee Physician Group
Pancreas Cancer Care Support Services
When facing a cancer diagnosis, it's crucial to have access to cancer support services. We are committed to being your trusted partner throughout your cancer journey, offering a wide range of services tailored to meet your unique needs.
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Cancer Support Groups
Cancer support groups are gatherings that provide a secure environment for those impacted by the disease to talk about their feelings and experiences with other cancer patients.
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Clinical Trials
Explore clinical trials at the Lee Health Cancer Institute and receive expert cancer care from our experienced team. Your participation can contribute to the future of others. Enroll in a clinical trial today.
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Nurse Navigation
Lee Health Cancer Institute nurse navigators are here to help the patient and family through their cancer journey. From the moment of diagnosis to the treatment plan, our nurse navigators are here for you.
