Pancreatic cancer is considered one of the most serious types of cancer because it often goes undetected in its early stages. The pancreas is a small organ located behind the stomach that produces enzymes for digesting food and regulates blood sugar through hormones like insulin. When cancer develops in this organ, it initially grows silently without any obvious symptoms. This is why most cases are detected when the disease is already advanced and difficult to treat.
According to a report published in the journal Pancreas and conducted by the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute, the biggest challenge with this cancer is that its early signs are very general. Many people experience mild stomach pain, back pain, or a feeling of fullness after eating a small amount of food. These symptoms are often overlooked because they can be related to common problems like gas or stress.
Some people may also experience mild nausea or changes in digestion due to this cancer. Because these symptoms come and go, people don’t take them seriously. However, if they persist, they could be a warning sign of this cancer. A key symptom of this cancer is jaundice, which causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. This occurs when a substance called bilirubin increases in the body. The tumor blocks the bile duct, causing this problem. Dark urine, light-colored stools, and itchy skin may also occur.
Unexplained weight loss is also a major sign of this cancer. Many patients begin losing weight months in advance because the pancreas doesn’t produce enough enzymes and the body can’t absorb nutrients properly. This leads to increased weakness and changes in bowel movements. Stools may become oily, light-colored, or difficult to flush. Some people may also suddenly develop diabetes, which could be a sign that the pancreas is being affected.
Fatigue, loss of appetite, and unusual changes in the body can also be signs of this cancer. These symptoms are common, but if they persist or appear together, it’s important to be cautious. Certain risk factors also increase the risk of this disease. Smoking is considered the most common cause. Obesity, long-term inflammation of the pancreas, and a family history of this disease also increase the risk of this cancer.