Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging cancers to catch early. Unlike breast or colon cancer, there’s no regular screening test and its symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for something less serious. That’s why it’s often called a “silent” disease.
“The problem with pancreatic cancer is that many of the symptoms are nonspecific,” said Michael Choti, MD, division chief of surgery at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. “By the time the pain or more obvious signs appear, the cancer has often spread.”
The good news is that we are making progress. Survival rates have doubled in recent years thanks to better surgery and drug therapies. And the earlier pancreatic cancer is found, the better the chances are for successful treatment.
Here’s what to know about signs of pancreatic cancer and when to talk to your health care provider.
Why pancreatic cancer is so difficult to diagnose
The pancreas is an elongated organ located deep in the upper abdomen that produces enzymes, insulin and other hormones that help in digestion. Because of its location, pancreatic cancer is hard to see or feel, especially in the early stages.
About 90% of pancreatic cancers are pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, the most aggressive type. In many cases, half of the patients are already diagnosed at a stage when the cancer has spread beyond the pancreas. At that point, treatment may help manage symptoms and control the cancer, but not get rid of it completely.
“If the cancer is found while it’s still contained in the pancreas, surgery offers the best chance for long-term survival,” Dr. Choti said.
But unlike other cancers, pancreatic cancer doesn’t come with clear, early warning signs. There’s no lump you can feel or screening test your provider orders as part of a routine check-up. Instead, the signs are easy to overlook.
Key symptoms to watch for
Pancreatic cancer symptoms can depend on where the tumor grows inside the pancreas.
“Tumors in the head of the pancreas, for example, can block the bile duct and cause symptoms earlier, while tumors in the body or tail of the pancreas may go unnoticed longer,” Dr. Choti said.
Here are some important signs to know:
1. Yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice)
One of the most noticeable early signs is jaundice, when your skin or the whites of your eyes look yellow. You may also notice dark urine or lighter stools (poop).
Jaundice happens because a tumor in the head of the pancreas can press on the bile duct, blocking the normal flow of bile. “Painless jaundice without the gallstone pain we usually expect should raise concern,” Dr. Choti said.
2. Unexplained weight loss
Dropping pounds without trying may seem like a good thing. But sudden, unexplained weight loss can be a red flag. The pancreas aids in digestion, so cancer can affect how your body processes food.
Thyroid issues and some other health conditions can also cause rapid weight loss. It’s worth seeing your provider to get checked out.
3. New or worsening abdominal pain
Pain in the upper abdomen or back may develop as the cancer grows. Unfortunately, these symptoms often appear later, when the cancer has already advanced. Still, chronic or unexplained pain deserves attention.
4. New-onset diabetes
Most people who develop diabetes do not have pancreatic cancer. But in some cases, especially in adults over age 50, a new onset of diabetes can be an early warning sign.
“If someone at age 55 or 60 develops diabetes for the first time without any other reason, it may be worth looking at the pancreas with a scan,” Dr. Choti said.
Learn more about the connection between diabetes and pancreatic cancer.
5. Digestive changes
Pancreatic cancer can affect digestion, leading to symptoms like:
- Light colored, oily and floating poop (a sign of poor nutrient absorption)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Tired after eating
- Bloating, indigestion and nausea
On their own, these symptoms might not seem serious. But if they’re new, talk to your health care provider.
Who is at higher risk?
Pancreatic cancer is more common as people get older, typically appearing after age 50. But age isn’t the only factor. Certain risks make it more likely:
- Family history: Having a close relative, like a parent or sibling, with pancreatic cancer increases your risk.
- Genetic mutations: Certain germline mutations, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 (linked to breast cancer), also raise pancreatic cancer risk. Genetic testing can help families determine if additional screening is necessary.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, obesity, heavy alcohol use and chronic pancreatitis can all raise risk. A diet high in red and processed meats may also increase the risk.
- Race: African Americans are slightly more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than other racial groups.
- Pancreatic cysts: Certain cysts, such as mucinous cysts, can become cancerous and need regular monitoring.
- Diabetes: People with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of pancreatic cancer.
If you know you’re at higher risk, your provider may recommend periodic imaging tests, like MRI or CT scans, even though there’s no universal screening for everyone.
Why early action matters
Catching pancreatic cancer early is uncommon, but it’s possible. Advances in surgery, like the Whipple procedure, and improved chemotherapy mean more people are living longer after diagnosis.
“We are definitely getting better,” Dr. Choti said. “Now with earlier surgery and better therapies, we are helping more patients survive than ever before. The earlier we intervene, the better the outcomes.”
Even though most people with new diabetes or stomach pain won’t have pancreatic cancer, it’s better to get checked out than ignore something that could be serious. Your provider may order blood tests to check liver function or imaging, such as a CT or MRI scan, to look for growths. If anything looks concerning, additional testing can help confirm what’s happening.
Learn more about pancreatic cancer tests and diagnosis.
Takeaway
Pancreatic cancer is hard to catch early but not impossible. Pay attention to subtle changes like jaundice, unexplained weight loss, new diabetes or ongoing stomach pain. Most of the time these symptoms aren’t cancer, but it’s worth getting checked out if something feels off. Early action gives you the best chance at better outcomes.
Whether you need testing, a second opinion or complete care, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center is here for you. Schedule an appointment today and get the answers you deserve.
