Dr. Karan Sehgal, Surgical Oncologist, HCG EKO Cancer Centre Kolkata

Cancer is an abnormal and uncontrollable division of cells and when it occurs in the cells of the pancreas, it is called pancreatic cancer. About six inches long, the pancreas is a glandular organ located in the abdomen. It secretes pancreatic juices that contain enzymes that aid in digestion and produce several hormones, including insulin. People of any age can develop pancreatic cancer and it usually begins in the cells of the pancreatic tissues.

Childhood pancreatic cancer, a rare but aggressive form of cancer, is a disease in which cancer or malignant cells form in the tissues of the pancreas. Pancreatic cancer among children could be of 4 types – solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas, pancreatoblastoma, islet cell tumors and pancreatic carcinoma. These affect children and young adults aged six months to 15 years. Pancreatic cancer is often detected late, spreads rapidly and has a poor prognosis. Thus, knowing the signs and symptoms to detect it early, being aware of the various kinds of childhood pancreatic cancer and the risk factors and treatment methods are essential to tackle childhood pancreatic cancer.