NCCU Professor Dr. Antonio Baines’ Pancreatic Cancer Research Brings Awareness, Hope

Durham, NC – Dr. Antonio Baines, Associate Professor for the Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences at North Carolina Central University (NCCU), is making strides in pancreatic cancer research and awareness. Dr. Baines is known as a pancreatic cancer research expert and has committed his work to the treatment of pancreatic cancer by focusing on improved medication to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

He has published numerous papers and presented his research at various universities and scientific conferences across the U.S. While Dr. Baines researches pancreatic cancer year-round, November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month; therefore, he desires to highlight the significance of this form of cancer and provide valuable education.

 

According to a recent American Society of Clinical Oncology report, in this year alone an estimated 56,770 adults – that’s 29,940 men and 26,830 women- in the US will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and of this number 46,000 will succumb to the disease. When most hear of someone having pancreatic cancer, they immediately fear the worst possible outcome is inevitable.

 

When asked why pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer, Dr. Baines explains that there is no early detection method; consequently, the disease is difficult to treat when diagnosed. Because there is no specialized test or biomarker to detect the disease, such as a mammogram for breast cancer or colonoscopy for colon cancer, the disease is usually found by accident and has already metastasized. Another reason pancreatic cancer is difficult to treat is due to its resistance to chemotherapy and radiation. As of now, surgery is the only way to treat pancreatic cancer, and only 10% of all pancreatic cancer is eligible for surgery.

 

Dr. Baines highlights that pancreatic cancer disproportionately impacts minority populations and is anticipated to become the second leading of cancer deaths in the U.S. by 2030. When asked why pancreatic cancer has a greater impact on minority populations, he mentions that although research has not proven the reason, he believes it has to do with genetics and the environment.

 

In the past, research around pancreatic cancer has not always been conducted on diverse populations so it’s challenging to pinpoint why there is a disproportion with minority populations. He emphasizes that research agencies need to understand the importance of a diverse pool for clinical trials and to be as inclusive as possible with their studies.

 

When asked what can be done to help prevent the onset of pancreatic cancer and if he has any lifestyle tips, Dr. Baines stresses implementing a healthy and balanced diet into your daily routine, cut back on red meat and starchy foods, exercise on a regular basis, and also remember to receive regular check-ups with your doctor. The earlier the disease is discovered, the better.

 

He goes on to say that cancer does not mean a death sentence. Learn more about it, find good doctors, experts, and facilities in the type of cancer, and be proactive with receiving treatment.

 

To learn out more about pancreatic cancer, you can find Dr. Baines’ publications on NCCU’s website at https://www.nccu.edu. You can also visit the American Cancer Society, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PAN CAN – an advocacy group), and the American Association for Cancer Research.