According to a 2020 study by the Indian Council of Medical Research, in India, pancreatic cancer ranks 24th among all cancers, with around 10,860 new cases each year, making up about 1.03 per cent of the total cancer cases. However, it's significantly more deadly, ranking 18th in cancer-related mortality. This cancer tends to affect the elderly, with over half of the cases occurring in people aged 65–75.

 

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Pancreatic cancer develops when cells in the pancreas—an important gland tucked between the stomach and spine—mutate and grow uncontrollably, eventually forming a tumour. This gland plays a double role: it produces hormones that regulate blood sugar and enzymes essential for digestion. Most pancreatic cancers begin in the small ducts of the pancreas, particularly the main duct called the duct of Wirsung, which connects to the bile duct. 

What makes pancreatic cancer so elusive? Early tumours are nearly invisible on imaging tests, so the disease often goes undetected until it has spread. On top of that, pancreatic cancer resists many standard cancer treatments, which adds to its reputation as one of the toughest cancers to treat.

 

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Warning Signs of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is often called a “silent” disease because it rarely shows obvious symptoms in the early stages. However, certain signs can emerge as the cancerous cells grow and spread, and recognising them may be crucial for early detection and treatment. 

Here are some warning signs to watch for:

 

1. Abdominal or Back Pain
Many patients experience a dull ache in the upper abdomen that can spread to the back. The pain might come and go and is often worse when lying down or after eating. As the tumour grows, it can press against nearby organs or nerves, particularly those around the spine, causing discomfort.

 

2. Unexplained Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite
A noticeable drop in weight without any changes to diet or physical activity, coupled with a persistent lack of interest in food. Cancer affects how the body processes nutrients, often leading to rapid weight loss and malnutrition as the pancreas’ role in digestion is compromised.

 

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3. Jaundice (Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes)
Jaundice is characterised by a striking yellowing of the skin and eyes, often accompanied by dark urine, pale stools, and uncomfortable itchiness. Interestingly, jaundice can manifest even before any pain is felt. This condition typically arises when a tumour obstructs the bile duct, preventing bile from flowing into the intestines. As a result, bile accumulates in the bloodstream, giving rise to that noticeable yellow hue. 

 

4. Digestive Problems
Nausea or the urge to vomit, especially after a meal could be linked to digestive issues that deserve immediate attention. One surprising culprit to consider is tumours in the pancreas. These growths can put pressure on the stomach, disrupting the delicate balance of digestion and altering the way food travels through your digestive system. 

 

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5. Changes in Stool Appearance
Oily, pale, or foul-smelling stools that float or appear greasy happen when fats pass through the intestines undigested, causing oily stools. This shift in  stool’s appearance could be the body’s way of communicating about the health of your pancreas. The pancreas produces enzymes essential for breaking down fats. 

 

6. New or Worsening Diabetes
Sudden onset of diabetes in adults, especially if there is no family history or the person is otherwise healthy. In those who already have diabetes, blood sugar levels may become harder to control. The pancreas is responsible for producing insulin. A tumour interfering with its function can lead to diabetes, even in individuals without risk factors.

 

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7. Blood Clots
Swelling, redness, or a sharp pain in the leg can be warning signs of a blood clot—a condition that shouldn't be ignored. Experiencing shortness of breath, it could indicate that a clot has travelled to the lungs, which can be very serious. One lesser-known fact is that certain cancers, like pancreatic cancer, can heighten the risk of blood clots forming in the body. This phenomenon is referred to as “Trousseau’s syndrome,” and it highlights the complex connection between cancer and the body's circulatory system. 

 

8. Fatigue and Weakness
Sometimes feeling an overwhelming sense of tiredness that simple rest just can't shake off. For many individuals battling illness, even the slightest activity can feel like an insurmountable challenge. This profound exhaustion often stems from the relentless energy demands of cancer cells, which voraciously consume the body's resources. As a result, patients may find themselves feeling drained and weak, struggling to muster the energy for even the most mundane tasks. It’s a hidden battle, one that can leave a lasting impact on daily life.

 

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If you or someone you know experiences a combination of these symptoms, especially without an obvious cause, consulting a healthcare provider is essential. Pancreatic cancer is a stealthy disease, often showing no symptoms until it's advanced. However, being aware of the subtle signs can make a difference in early detection and treatment options. By staying informed about the symptoms and paying attention to any unusual changes in your body, you or your loved ones may catch warning signals early.

 

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