The silent killer: Signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer

Kalpit Devani, MD

Gastroenterology

Pancreatic cancer is a silent killer and recognizing its symptoms is important. The American Cancer Society estimates that in the U.S. approximately 57,600 people will develop pancreatic cancer, and of these, 47,050 will succumb to the disease. This alarming death rate is why raising awareness of this condition and diagnosing it early is key. Kalpit Devani, MD, shared the signs and symptoms to look for when it comes to pancreatic cancer.

“The pancreas is an organ that measures about six to seven inches long and sits behind the stomach. It is crucial to digestion and is involved in creating the hormone insulin,” said Dr. Devani.

There are multiple types of pancreatic cancer, and one of the most common is pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

What are the risk factors for pancreatic cancer?

Most cases of pancreatic cancer occur after the age of 60 and rarely before the age of 40. The largest risk factors for pancreatic cancer are smoking and a history of chronic pancreatitis or inflammation in the pancreas caused by high alcohol use.

What are the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer?

Dr. Devani said early signs of pancreatic cancer are vague and non-specific, making early diagnosis difficult. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can include:

• Abdominal pain
• Back pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Pancreatic cysts
• A new diagnosis of diabetes after age 50 (and no other risk factors such as obesity or family history)

If you have diabetes and glucose control suddenly becomes difficult, this can also be a sign of pancreatic cancer.

“Unfortunately, because of these vague symptoms, pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed in its later stages, when the cancer has spread to other organs,” said Dr. Devani. “Nonetheless, if you or someone you know has any of these vague symptoms, it is important to discuss this with your primary care doctor or a gastroenterologist.”

Can pancreatic cancer be prevented?

To prevent any cancer, it’s important to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet, as well as avoid tobacco and don’t consume large amounts of alcohol.

Screening should be performed for individuals who have a higher risk for pancreatic cancer due to a family history (parent, sibling, or child), especially if pancreatic cancer has occurred among multiple family members. Approximately 5–10% of pancreatic cancers have an inherited genetic component. Please talk to your doctor if you have a family history of pancreatic cancer. 

“Let’s come together and make a promise to our families, friends and ourselves to stay aware of our own health and pay attention to warning signs of this silent killer,” said Dr. Devani.