Pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located horizontally in the abdomen behind the lower part of the stomach. The pancreas releases enzymes that aid digestion and hormones that help regulate blood sugar.
Pancreatic cancer typically spreads rapidly to nearby organs and is rarely detected in its early stages. However, for people with pancreatic cysts or a family history of pancreatic cancer, certain screening steps may help in early detection. One sign of pancreatic cancer is diabetes, especially when it occurs alongside weight loss, jaundice, or pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back.
Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer often don’t appear until the disease is advanced. They may include:
- Upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back
- Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss
- Depression
- Newly diagnosed diabetes
- Blood clots
- Fatigue
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer, including:
- Chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
- Diabetes
- Family history of genetic syndromes that can increase cancer risk, including BRCA2 gene mutations, Lynch syndrome, and Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma (FAMMM)
- Family history of pancreatic cancer
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Older age, as most people are diagnosed after the age of 65
Consult your doctor if you experience unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, or other concerning symptoms. Many conditions can cause these symptoms, so your doctor may check for these issues, including pancreatic cancer.
