Ashima Sharda Mahindra • 15 Dec 2024
What Is Bile Duct Cancer American NFL Legend Randy Moss Is Battling?
Also known as cholangiocarcinoma, bile duct cancer is rare and starts in your bile ducts
Retired NFL superstar Randy Moss has announced he is battling cancer. The 47-year-old, in an Instagram video, said his cancer was discovered in the bile duct—between the pancreas and liver—and that he is a cancer survivor.
Moss informed his fans that he underwent surgery and was released from the hospital after six days. He walked with a cane in the video, in which he was joined by his two sons. "Your boy is a cancer survivor," Moss said. "Some trying times, of course. But you know, we made it through and for that, I thank you all."
Moss underwent chemotherapy
In the video, Moss also announced he has had chemotherapy and radiation procedures, which will continue while he is recovering. "All the prayers, the well wishes—I felt that. My family felt that," he said.
The Minnesota Vikings legend first revealed his health issues earlier this month, telling fans that he “has been battling something internal" and asking for prayers. Since then, Moss has received an outpouring of support from media colleagues and former players.
What is bile duct cancer?
Also known as cholangiocarcinoma, bile duct cancer is rare and starts in your bile ducts—thin tubes that bring bile—a fluid that helps you digest fats - your liver and gallbladder to your small intestine.
According to doctors, cholangiocarcinoma is an aggressive cancer and spreads very fast. Most people get diagnosed after it has already spread outside of their bile ducts and so, it becomes difficult to treat, and the chance of recovery is usually poor.
Signs and symptoms of bile duct cancer
According to experts, the symptoms of bile duct cancer do not usually start until the condition advances and blocks one of the ducts. However, a few signs include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fever
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Itchy skin
- Jaundice
- Dark-coloured urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
What causes bile duct cancer?
While it is not exactly known what causes bile duct cancer, experts say a long-term inflammation in your ducts can play a significant role. Ongoing damage from inflammation leads to changes in the cell DNA, which mutate and the cells grow and divide, creating tumours. These changes probably are not hereditary.
A few risk factors for bile duct cancer include:
- Structural abnormalities where your bile duct and pancreatic duct meet
- Bile duct stones
- Infection with a Chinese liver fluke parasite
- Ulcerative colitis
- Liver cirrhosis
- Hepatitis B or C
- HIV infection
- Metabolic dysfunction
- Liver disease
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Obesity and being overweight
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