What You Should Know About Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer can be difficult to detect because symptoms are often vague and may not appear until the disease has progressed.

Understanding the signs, symptoms and risk factors can help individuals recognize when it may be time to speak with a healthcare provider.

Understanding the Pancreas
The pancreas is a gland located deep within the abdomen that helps regulate blood sugar and aids digestion. Pancreatic cancer develops when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow out of control and form a tumor. Because the pancreas is not easily examined during routine medical visits,
diagnosis often requires imaging tests such as
CT scans, MRI scans or ultrasounds.

Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can vary and may resemble those of other conditions. Potential signs include:
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Changes in stool color or dark urine
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea or digestive changes
• Fatigue
• Pain in the upper abdomen or back

While most back pain is caused by muscle strain or injury, persistent pain in the mid-back can occasionally be associated with pancreatic cancer. Because the pancreas sits near major nerves, a tumor may cause discomfort that radiates to the back. Back pain that persists or occurs alongside other symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Know Your Risk Factors
Several factors may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer, including:
• Age over 60
• Family history of pancreatic cancer
• Inherited genetic mutations
• Smoking
• Long-standing diabetes
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Obesity

About 10% of pancreatic cancers are believed to be hereditary. Individuals with a close family member who has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer should talk with their physician about whether genetic counseling or testing may be appropriate.

Advances in Treatment
Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies and clinical trials. Ongoing research continues to improve understanding of pancreatic cancer and expand treatment options, offering patients access to more personalized approaches to care. According to the American Cancer Society, patients diagnosed when the cancer is still localized to the pancreas have a 44% five-year relative survival rate, highlighting the importance of timely evaluation and treatment.

When to Talk to Your Doctor
While these symptoms can be caused by many conditions, it is important to speak with your doctor if you experience persistent or unexplained changes in your health, including ongoing abdominal or back pain, jaundice, unexplained weight loss or digestive changes.

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