The pancreas is a large gland tucked behind your stomach in the upper part of your abdomen. It plays two essential roles: producing digestive juices that help break down food and releasing important hormones that regulate blood sugar.
Pancreatic cancer begins when abnormal cells start growing uncontrollably within this gland. Although it is the tenth most common cancer in the UK, it’s also one of the hardest to detect early. That’s because the symptoms usually don’t appear until the disease has already progressed.
By the time noticeable signs begin to surface, the cancer is often at a more advanced stage — and even then, the symptoms can be vague and easily mistaken for other common conditions.
Symptoms also depend on where exactly the cancer develops: the head, body, or tail of the pancreas. The most common type, ductal adenocarcinoma, begins in the cells responsible for producing digestive enzymes.
According to Cancer Research UK, here are some of the most common signs and symptoms:
1. Stomach or Back Pain
Persistent abdominal discomfort that sometimes radiates to your back can be an early indicator. This pain often worsens after eating.
At first, it may come and go, but as the tumour grows, the discomfort becomes more constant and longer-lasting.
2. Jaundice
Many people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer develop jaundice — a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes.
This happens because the tumour blocks the bile duct, causing bilirubin (a yellow pigment made by the liver) to build up in the body.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing a significant amount of weight without trying is a red flag for many cancers, including pancreatic cancer.
This can result from poor digestion, changes in metabolism, or reduced appetite.
4. Digestive Problems
If the pancreas can’t produce enough digestive enzymes, food may not break down properly.
This can lead to:
• Loose stools
• Oily or pale stools
• Strong, unpleasant-smelling bowel movements
These issues can appear when cancer interferes with enzyme production.
5. Changes in Bowel Habits
A blocked pancreatic duct may cause steatorrhoea — fatty stools that indicate poor nutrient absorption.
Other bowel changes include:
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
6. New-Onset Diabetes
The pancreas plays a key role in insulin production.
In some people, pancreatic cancer triggers diabetes, even if they’ve never had high blood sugar before.
7. Severe Fatigue
As with many types of cancer, extreme tiredness and a persistent lack of energy may be present.
8. Blood Clots
Pancreatic cancer significantly increases the risk of blood clots, also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
This may appear as swelling, pain, or redness in one leg.
9. Fever and Chills
If the pancreas becomes inflamed or if jaundice is present, you may experience occasional fevers and shivering episodes.
10. Itchy Skin
Jaundice can cause intense itching due to the buildup of bile salts in the bloodstream.
Risk Factors
While the exact cause of pancreatic cancer often can’t be pinpointed, several factors increase the likelihood of developing it:
• Older age
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Family history or genetic predispositions
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Certain medical conditions
Important Note
This information is meant to raise awareness. If you experience any concerning symptoms or have questions about your health, always speak with a medical professional for personalized guidance.