Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-detect cancers. Often called a "silent killer," it may not cause symptoms until it’s already advanced — making awareness and early attention critically important.
While outcomes for pancreatic cancer can be challenging, early detection and evolving treatment options are offering more hope than ever before.
🔍 What Is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the pancreas — a gland located behind the stomach that helps regulate blood sugar and aids in digestion.
The most common type is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which begins in the ducts that carry digestive enzymes.
Because the pancreas is deep inside the body, tumors can grow without causing noticeable symptoms until they begin affecting nearby organs or nerves.
🔍 What Is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the pancreas — a gland located behind the stomach that helps regulate blood sugar and aids in digestion.
The most common type is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which begins in the ducts that carry digestive enzymes.
Because the pancreas is deep inside the body, tumors can grow without causing noticeable symptoms until they begin affecting nearby organs or nerves.
⚠️ Common Symptoms to Watch For
Pancreatic cancer often develops with few or no early warning signs. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
• Upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Light-colored stools or dark urine
• New-onset diabetes or worsening blood sugar control
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
These symptoms can easily be mistaken for other conditions — which is why many cases go undiagnosed until later stages.
🧬 Who’s at Risk?
Several risk factors are linked to pancreatic cancer:
• Age (most cases occur after age 60)
• Smoking (significantly increases risk)
• Family history of pancreatic or related cancers
• Chronic pancreatitis (long-term inflammation)
• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• Certain genetic syndromes (like BRCA mutations or Lynch syndrome)
If you fall into a high-risk group and experience symptoms, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
🧪 How Is It Diagnosed?
Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed through a combination of:
• Imaging tests (CT, MRI, endoscopic ultrasound)
• Blood tests for tumor markers (like CA 19-9)
• Biopsy (sampling tissue from the pancreas)
• Staging tests to determine whether the cancer has spread
Because of its location and subtle symptoms, diagnosis can be complex — and seeking a specialist is often critical.