Cancer in this organ is usually difficult to spot or diagnose because of this location and its relationship with other organs around it—namely the liver, stomach, gall bladder and the chest.
Dr. SYLVESTER IKHISEMOJIE FROM PUNCH
After last week’s essay about this disease condition, it has become necessary to help readers understand the peculiar nature of the organ. The pancreas is an organ located deep within the back recesses of the abdomen, lodged somewhere between the stomach in front and the spine behind.
The spine itself is surrounded by bulky muscles, which offer it a kind of cushion and act as a shock absorber, if you like.
Cancer in this organ is usually difficult to spot or diagnose because of this location and its relationship with other organs around it—namely the liver, stomach, gall bladder and the chest.
Specifically noteworthy is the fact that pancreatic cancer has claimed the lives of several notable individuals, highlighting the aggressive nature of the disease and the challenges involved in treating it.
We shall examine some prominent figures who have been diagnosed with and died from pancreatic cancer.
One of these notables is Steve Jobs (1955–2011), the co-founder of Apple Incorporated and the visionary behind Apple’s revolutionary products. He was diagnosed with a rare form of pancreatic cancer called a Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumour in 2003.
He initially pursued alternative treatments before undergoing surgery and other therapies. He passed away in 2011, even after receiving a combined liver and pancreas transplant.
This was an individual who, like other prominent people struck with this disease, had all the necessary resources to access the best available treatment but ultimately still succumbed to it.
Other victims include Aretha Franklin (1942–2018), the Queen of Soul and legendary singer known for hits like “Respect” and “Natural Woman.”
She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2010. She kept her condition private and continued performing until her health declined. She passed away in 2018.
