Appendix cancer is an invisible adversary that silently causes disorder within the depths of our bodies. Unknown to many due to its rarity, this disease is sadly deadly when large tumors become aggressive and arduous to treat. Appendix cancer, which lives in obscurity, occurs when cells in the appendix change and grow significantly. Nestled within our lower right abdomen lies the appendix, a finger-shaped pouch near the junction of our large and small intestines. While people are more acquainted with the term “appendicitis,” an inflammation of the appendix, than the presence of this organ, its function remains a mystery to the medical world.

The tissue within the appendix, once innocent, turns into a malevolent entity known as a tumor. These tumors, whether malignant or benign, can take on various forms of appendix cancer. Carcinoid tumors, lurking in the shadows, slowly tighten their grip. Mucinous adenocarcinomas, with their gelatinous masses, smother hope and crush dreams. Non-mucinous adenocarcinomas, devoid of mercy, strike with unrelenting force. As a significant part of the world remains ignorant of this ruinous disease, appendix cancer continues its silent reign, making the battle onerous due to its rarity.

 

Appendix Cancer In Mauritius: What Do We Know?

While appendix cancer occurrence is low in Mauritius, there is a fundamental need to educate the population on this type of cancer, and how to recognize its symptoms. According to the National Cancer Registry, some 2,866 new cases of cancer were detected in 2021, including 1,185 men and 1,681 women”. The Minister of Health and Wellness has declared that cancer is the third main cause of death in Mauritius. Lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach, and liver cancers are the most common types of cancer in men, while breast, colorectal, lung, cervical, and thyroid cancers are the most common among women. Appendix cancer cases have not really been recorded in Mauritius; however, there is no zero risk, and the need to spread awareness is more pressing than ever. In the US, it has been thought to affect about 1 or 2 people per 1 million per year. However, recent studies show that appendiceal cancer is becoming more common.

 

Cancer awareness is not just about understanding the disease; it’s about fostering empathy, offering support, and creating a world where no one fights alone.”

 

Types of Appendix Cancer:

Carcinoid Tumors:

These are the most common types of appendix cancer. They typically grow slowly and are often found incidentally during an appendectomy or other abdominal surgeries. Carcinoid tumors can be low-grade or high-grade, with the latter getting more aggressive.

Adenocarcinoma:

This type of cancer arises from the glandular cells lining the appendix. Adenocarcinomas can be classified as well-differentiated, moderately differentiated, or poorly differentiated based on the degree of cell differentiation. Poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas tend to be more aggressive.

Mucinous Adenocarcinoma:

This is a subtype of adenocarcinoma that produces excess mucus. It is characterized by the presence of mucin, a jelly-like substance, and can sometimes lead to the formation of pseudomyxoma peritonei, a condition where the abdomen fills with mucin.

Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma:

This is a rare and aggressive type of appendix cancer characterized by cells that contain abundant mucin, pushing the nucleus to the periphery, giving them a signet ring appearance. It is typically associated with a poor prognosis.

 

Symptoms and Treatments of Appendix Cancer

Appendix cancer often does not cause specific symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. Some common symptoms may include abdominal pain or discomfort, changes in bowel habits, bloating, unexplained weight loss, and a feeling of fullness. Nevertheless, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions other than appendix cancer. It is important that you regularly have checkups with your healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and the detection of anomalies. The exact cause of appendix cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors may increase the chances of developing this condition. A family history of appendix cancer, certain genetic conditions, and having a history of other gastrointestinal tumors are some risk factors associated with appendix cancer.

Treatment for appendix cancer typically involves surgery to remove the appendix and any affected surrounding tissues. Depending on the stage and type of cancer, treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be recommended. Appendix cancer is a rare condition, and the prognosis can vary depending on factors such as how far the cancer has spread. The best way is to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information and guidance.

 

Save A Life, Make A Donation To Falcon Mauritius Cancer Institute (FMCI)

Making a donation to FMCI Mauritius is easy! Simply visit our website and get in touch with our team, who will be ready to assist you. Alternatively, feel free to call us or pay a visit to our office in Floreal if you have any questions or need further information. We have more good news to share! You can also contribute to our branch in the USA, and rest assured that all funds will directly support our cause. Your generosity will have a great impact on the lives of those fighting cancer. Without donations, our association cannot effectively carry out its mission. Just as heroes thrive with the support of a sidekick, our cancer patients rely on your generous support.