What Is Pancreatic Cancer? What Are the Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer develops when abnormal cells in the pancreas multiply uncontrollably. The pancreas is a vital organ located in the back of the abdominal cavity and plays a crucial role in digestion and metabolism by producing digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin. When the pancreas is affected by cancer, both the digestive process and blood sugar regulation can be seriously disrupted.

What Is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells in pancreatic tissue, leading to tumor formation. Since the pancreas produces digestive enzymes and hormones that regulate blood sugar, cancer in this organ negatively affects both metabolism and the digestive system. Because the disease often causes symptoms at a late stage, early detection is difficult. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, and jaundice.

Types of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is classified into different types based on the type of cells in which it originates. Each type has a different clinical course, symptoms, and treatment approach.

The main types of pancreatic cancer include:

• Adenocarcinoma: The most common type of pancreatic cancer, arising from the cells lining the pancreatic ducts

• Neuroendocrine tumors: Originate from hormone-producing cells and usually progress more slowly

• Sarcoma: A rare tumor that develops from the connective tissue of the pancreas

• Squamous cell carcinoma: Extremely rare and typically aggressive

Stages of Pancreatic Cancer

Staging is used to determine the size of the tumor and the extent of its spread. As the stage advances, the disease becomes more severe and treatment becomes more challenging.

The stages of pancreatic cancer are as follows:

• Stage 1: The tumor is confined to the pancreas and may be surgically removed

• Stage 2: Cancer has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes

• Stage 3: The tumor involves major blood vessels or nearby organs

• Stage 4: Cancer has metastasized to distant organs such as the liver or lungs

Symptoms of Stage 1 Pancreatic Cancer

In the early stage, symptoms are often absent. However, some patients may experience:

• Loss of appetite and mild weight loss

• Mild abdominal discomfort

• Digestive difficulties or gas

• Fatigue or weakness

Symptoms of Stage 2 Pancreatic Cancer

As the tumor grows, symptoms become more noticeable:

• Pain radiating to the back or abdomen

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

• Dark-colored urine and pale stools

• Nausea, vomiting, or a feeling of fullness

Symptoms of Stage 3 Pancreatic Cancer

As the disease progresses, symptoms significantly affect daily life:

• Severe back pain

• Persistent weight loss and loss of appetite

• Itching of the skin and jaundice

• Blood sugar imbalances (sudden hyperglycemia)

• Digestive disturbances and fatty stools

Symptoms of Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer

At this stage, treatment focuses mainly on palliative care to improve quality of life. When cancer spreads to distant organs, systemic symptoms occur:

• Severe and persistent abdominal pain

• Extreme fatigue and weakness

• Enlarged liver and fluid accumulation in the abdomen

• Pain due to bone or lung metastases

• Severe nutritional problems and significant weight loss

What Causes Pancreatic Cancer?

Although the exact cause of pancreatic cancer is unknown, several factors increase the risk. Genetic mutations, lifestyle habits, and chronic health conditions play an important role.

Possible causes include:

• Obesity and poor dietary habits

• Diabetes

• Chronic pancreatitis

• Family history of pancreatic cancer

What Are the Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer?

Symptoms usually begin subtly and gradually worsen over time. They may vary depending on the location and spread of the tumor.

Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal or back pain

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes

• Weight loss and loss of appetite

• Dark urine and pale stools

• Nausea and digestive problems

• Blood sugar imbalance

• Extreme fatigue

Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer

Some individuals are more susceptible due to genetic or environmental factors. Risk factors include:

• Being over 50 years of age

• Family history of pancreatic, colon, or breast cancer

• Diabetes

• Chronic pancreatitis

• Diet high in red meat and low in fiber

• Long-term exposure to chemicals

How Is Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosed?

Because pancreatic cancer often presents symptoms at an advanced stage, diagnosis requires detailed testing.

Diagnostic methods include:

• Blood tests: Evaluation of tumor markers such as CA 19-9

• Ultrasound: Initial imaging to detect pancreatic masses

• CT scan or MRI: Determines tumor size and location

• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): Provides detailed imaging and allows biopsy

• Biopsy: Tissue sampling for definitive diagnosis

Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

Treatment is planned based on the stage of the disease, tumor location, and the patient’s overall health. Surgical intervention is the most effective option in early-stage disease. Early diagnosis improves treatment success, while advanced stages require personalized approaches aimed at prolonging survival and improving quality of life.

Treatment options include:

• Surgery: Removal of the tumor (Whipple procedure)

• Chemotherapy: To destroy cancer cells or slow tumor growth

• Radiotherapy: Radiation treatment to shrink the tumor

• Targeted therapy: Medications tailored to the tumor’s genetic profile

• Supportive care: Pain management, nutritional support, and quality-of-life improvement

Frequently Asked Questions About Pancreatic Cancer

At what age is pancreatic cancer most common?

Pancreatic cancer most commonly occurs in individuals over the age of 50. However, it may also develop at a younger age due to genetic predisposition or lifestyle factors.

Can pancreatic cancer be detected early?

Unfortunately, it is often not detected early. Because pancreatic cancer does not cause symptoms in its early stages, it is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage. Regular screenings are especially important for individuals with a family history.

Does pancreatic cancer cause pain?

Yes. Pain that begins in the upper abdomen and radiates to the back is common. The pain often worsens at night and may intensify when lying down.

What is the first symptom of pancreatic cancer?

The first symptom is often loss of appetite, weight loss, digestive discomfort, or jaundice. Because these symptoms are mild at first, they may go unnoticed.

Does pancreatic cancer start with jaundice?

Yes, particularly tumors located in the head of the pancreas may block the bile duct, making jaundice one of the first signs. Yellowing of the eyes and skin, dark urine, and pale stools may occur.

How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves blood tests, MRI, CT scans, ultrasound imaging, and biopsy. Elevated CA 19-9 levels may support suspicion of pancreatic cancer.

Is pancreatic cancer genetic?

In some cases, genetic predisposition plays a role. The risk is higher in individuals with a family history of pancreatic, colon, or breast cancer, and genetic counseling may be recommended.

Is pancreatic cancer contagious?

No, pancreatic cancer is not contagious. However, genetic factors may cause multiple cases within the same family.