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Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer sometimes causes no clear symptoms in its early stages. Yellow skin or eyes, weight loss and upper abdominal or back pain need investigation.

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  • Pancreatic cancer usually develops in the ducts of the pancreas and often causes few specific symptoms early on.
  • Jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, itching, unexplained weight loss or persistent upper abdominal and back pain need assessment.
  • Sudden-onset diabetes or diabetes that rapidly becomes harder to control can sometimes be a clue, but diabetes much more often has another cause.
  • The diagnosis and stage are established with imaging and usually tissue examination when this guides treatment.
  • Surgery offers the only chance of a cure, but is possible only if the tumour can be removed and the person can tolerate the operation.
  • Chemotherapy is used before or after surgery or for inoperable disease; radiotherapy or targeted treatments sometimes follow.
  • Pain, jaundice, nausea, poor digestion, diabetes and weight loss can be actively treated.
  • The outlook varies with the type, stage, general health and response. Ask for specific information about your situation and for early palliative support.

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