Healthy Lifestyle Not a Guarantee: Man Diagnosed with Stage 3 Pancreatic Cancer
A man in his fifties from southern Taiwan, known for his regular exercise routine and smoke-free lifestyle, has been diagnosed with stage 3 pancreatic cancer — a condition often dubbed the “king of cancers” due to its subtle early symptoms and notoriously poor prognosis. Despite his healthy habits, the patient’s fondness for sugary drinks, including bubble tea, red bean soup, and winter melon tea, may have contributed to his illness.
According to Dr Liu Bo-ren, a Taiwanese expert in nutritional and functional medicine, the patient began experiencing severe fatigue, digestive issues, and a jaundiced complexion. Over three weeks, he visited two hospitals and underwent multiple examinations before finally receiving the devastating diagnosis of advanced pancreatic cancer.
High Sugar Intake Linked to Increased Pancreatic Cancer Risk
Upon learning of his condition, the patient understandably fell into a state of emotional distress and immense pressure. Dr Liu quickly intervened with cancer nutrition therapy, tailoring a treatment plan specific to the patient’s needs and coordinating a referral to a medical centre for advanced care. The patient subsequently underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy, a major abdominal surgery, and follow-up chemoradiotherapy, all while receiving ongoing nutritional support. Encouragingly, his condition has since stabilised, and he continues to attend regular follow-up appointments.
Dr Liu highlighted from his years of genetic analysis in cancer cases that only about 10% to 15% of cancers overall are linked to hereditary factors. In pancreatic cancer specifically, cases with direct links to inherited genes account for less than 5%, indicating that more than 95% of pancreatic cancer diagnoses stem from non-genetic factors.
Experts Urge Reduction of Sugar Intake to Prevent Pancreatic Cancer
Medical professionals widely agree that lifestyle choices, particularly high sugar consumption, poor blood sugar control, and habitual alcohol intake, are major contributors to the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Dr Liu emphasised the importance of adopting healthier daily habits, such as cutting down on sugary foods and beverages, increasing the intake of fresh vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, and practising moderation in diet. These measures can significantly reduce one’s risk of pancreatic cancer.
For Singaporeans who often enjoy sugary bubble tea or other sweetened drinks as part of social gatherings or daily routines, this case serves as a sobering reminder of the hidden dangers of excessive sugar intake. Incorporating cancer prevention tips, such as choosing water or unsweetened drinks and prioritising balanced meals rich in fibre and nutrients, could be key steps towards protecting long-term health and avoiding the devastating impact of this aggressive cancer.