Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms Everyone Needs to Know

Posted by Hollie Williams on March 29th, 2017

With only about 53,000 cases of pancreatic cancer diagnosed in the United States in a given year, the disease is fairly rare. Accounting for just 3 percent of all cancers in America, however, pancreatic cancer claims more than 43,000 lives each year. Adding up to 7 percent of all cancer deaths, the grim numbers associated with pancreatic cancer are expected to climb in the coming years. That makes understanding the warning signs of this often difficult to detect condition especially important.

Pancreatic cancer involves tumors that develop in this small organ that is located deep in the body behind the stomach. Its location and the fact that initial symptoms tend to be rather vague combine with a lack of routine screening to help explain the low survival rate this disease has. Knowing what symptoms may signal the presence of pancreatic cancer, however, may help expedite diagnosis and treatment. Here are some of the more common symptoms that may signal pancreatic cancer’s presence:

• Jaundice – This yellowing of the skin and eyes may signal a number of conditions, including pancreatic cancer. It is important to get to the root of this symptom as quickly as possible.
• Abdominal pain – Unexplained stomach pain that radiates to the back may signal cancer’s presence. Pain may escalate after eating or when lying down.
• Unexplained weight loss – If pounds are lost quickly and with no explanation, it is best to see a doctor to find out the cause.
• Bowel habit changes – Pancreatic cancer can affect digestion, which may lead to disruptions in bowel habits.
• New onset diabetes – New cases of diabetes may be associated with cancer in the pancreas.
• Difficulty swallowing – Some people with pancreatic cancer may find themselves feeling as if they are choking or have food stuck in their throats when they do not. In addition, coughing may be a concern.

The symptoms of pancreatic cancer are strongly associated with a variety of other health conditions, some serious and others not. When they arise, however, it is important for people to get checked out by their healthcare providers. If pancreatic cancer risk factors, such as family history and diabetes, are also present, it is important for patients to share this information. With no routine screening tool, pancreatic cancer can be difficult for doctors to detect or even suspect. Should risk couple with symptoms, however, it is important to rule out this possible cause.

People who are concerned about pancreatic cancer and their risks are urged to talk with their doctors. Early detection of this form of cancer is critical for improving the odds of a positive outcome.

About Author

The Sandler-Kenner Foundation was started by Gregory A. Echt, M.D. and his wife, Susan T. Echt, after they lost two of their dear friends, Michael and Peter, to premature deaths from pancreatic cancer.