Duodenal cancer

Duodenal Cancer

Duodenal Cancer Treatment at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City: A Comprehensive Guide

Duodenal cancer is a relatively rare type of gastrointestinal cancer that develops in the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum), accounting for approximately 0.5% of diagnosed cancer cases each year. Despite its rarity, it can be serious if not detected and treated at an early stage.

Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi is one of the leading medical centres in the UAE for the treatment of duodenal cancer. The centre brings together a team of specialist physicians with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating this cancer using the latest medical technologies.

Symptoms

In the early stages, duodenal cancer may cause no symptoms. As the disease progresses, some of the following symptoms may appear:

• Abdominal or back pain
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Abdominal bloating
• Weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
• Dark‑coloured stools or blood in the stool

Diagnosis

If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will perform a physical examination and request certain tests, such as:

• Blood tests
• X‑rays
• Computed tomography (CT)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Upper endoscopy (gastroscopy)

Treatment

Treatment for duodenal cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the patient’s overall health. Treatment options include:

• Surgery: The most common treatment. The tumour and nearby lymph nodes are removed during surgery
• Chemotherapy: Medicines are used to destroy cancer cells
• Radiotherapy: High‑energy beams are used to destroy cancer cells
• Targeted therapy: This type of therapy targets specific characteristics of cancer cells.

Prevention

There is no definitive method to prevent duodenal cancer. However, the risk of developing this type of cancer can be reduced by:

• Avoiding smoking
• Following a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Reducing alcohol consumption
• Undergoing regular screening for duodenal cancer

SSMC: A Distinguished Destination for Duodenal Cancer Treatment

SSMC offers an advanced approach to the treatment of duodenal cancer, combining the expertise of specialist physicians with the use of the latest medical technologies. The centre is committed to delivering comprehensive care for patients, from diagnosis through treatment and follow‑ups.

Contact Us

If you are experiencing any symptoms of duodenal cancer, do not hesitate to contact SSMC to receive the highest standard of medical care.

For more information, please call SSMC on 800 7762 or schedule an appointment here.