Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in the glands that line your organs (Pic: Instagram/iStock)
Two-time All-Star closer and World Series champion with the Chicago White Sox, Bobby Jenks, died as he was being treated for adenocarcinoma – an aggressive form of stomach cancer. According to news reports, Jenks, 44, had been battling the cancer since February this year and had moved to Portugal.
“Bobby was an iconic member of our White Sox family,” said White Sox Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf in a statement honouring the two-time All-Star. Jenks helped the White Sox win the 2005 World Series, saving four games in six appearances during the postseason. He was an All-Star in each of the next two seasons while saving 41 games in 2006 and 40 in 2007.
What is adenocarcinoma?
Adenocarcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in the glands that line your organs. These glands secrete mucus and digestive juices. If your glandular epithelial cells begin to change or grow out of control, they form tumours. Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of cancer involving your organs. It can affect several different areas of your body, most commonly the stomach.
According to experts, when adenocarcinoma spreads, providers refer to it in one of two ways:
Invasive adenocarcinoma
When cancer cells spread to surrounding tissues and nearby lymph nodes.
Metastatic adenocarcinoma
When cancer cells break away from the original tumour and travel to distant parts of your body via your bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Signs and symptoms of adenocarcinoma
Doctors say the symptoms of adenocarcinoma vary widely depending on which type you have. A few of the most common overlapping signs include:
- Pain near the affected organ
- Blood in bodily fluids like your pee, poop or saliva
- Changes in your appetite or weight
- Feeling of constant bloating
- Bleeding in the stool
- Abdominal pain
- Recurrent and chronic constipation
What causes adenocarcinoma?
Doctors say even though the exact cause of adenocarcinoma may vary, it generally develops when glandular cells begin to mutate and divide uncontrollably. Over time, these abnormal cells form tumours and invade nearby tissues.
Many risk factors may increase a person’s chances of developing adenocarcinoma, a few of which include:
Tobacco
Use of tobacco through smoking or vaping is the primary cause of not just adenocarcinoma but also other types of cancer.
Family history
If you have a biological parent, sibling, or grandparent with adenocarcinoma, you are more likely to develop it.
Alcohol
How often you drink beverages containing alcohol may contribute to adenocarcinoma, especially if you have a family history of the condition.
Toxin exposure
Exposure to harmful toxins in your home or work environment can also cause adenocarcinoma.
A high BMI
Doctors say if your body mass index or BMI is greater than 25, you are considered obese. Carrying extra weight may be a risk factor for certain types of cancer, including adenocarcinoma.
Previous radiation therapy
If you have had radiation therapy in the past, you have a higher risk of developing adenocarcinoma.
