The pancreas is a large gland responsible for producing digestive juices and hormones. It is located in the upper part of the abdomen, just behind the stomach.

Pancreatic cancer is a form of cancer that begins in the pancreas due to the abnormal growth of cells in this gland. It is one of the more common cancers in the UK.

Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is rarely detected at an early stage because symptoms often do not appear until the disease has progressed.

Symptoms usually become noticeable only when the cancer reaches a more advanced stage. Even then, they can be vague and similar to symptoms caused by many other conditions.

Symptoms may vary depending on which part of the pancreas — the head, body, or tail — is affected.
The most common type of pancreatic cancer is ductal adenocarcinoma, which begins in the cells that produce digestive juices.

Common Signs of Pancreatic Cancer

Pain in the stomach or back


Persistent or unexplained abdominal pain that spreads to the back can be a sign of pancreatic cancer. This pain may be more noticeable after eating. In early stages, it may come and go, but as the tumor grows it often becomes more constant.

Jaundice
Many people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer develop jaundice — yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a pigment produced by the liver. This often happens when a tumor blocks the bile duct.

Unexplained weight loss
Significant weight loss without an obvious reason can be a warning sign of many cancers, including pancreatic cancer.

Digestive problems
Poor digestion, loose stools, or oily stools with a strong odor may occur if the pancreas is unable to produce enough digestive enzymes due to the presence of cancer.

Bowel changes
A blocked pancreatic duct can lead to fatty stools (steatorrhoea), meaning the body is not properly absorbing food. Other bowel changes may include diarrhea or constipation.

New-onset diabetes
In some cases, pancreatic cancer affects insulin production and can lead to diabetes in people who previously did not have the condition.

Fatigue
Persistent tiredness and low energy levels are common symptoms seen in many types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer.

Blood clots


People with pancreatic cancer may have an increased risk of developing blood clots, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Fever and chills
Some individuals may experience occasional fever and shivering, especially if jaundice or pancreatic inflammation is present.

Itching
Jaundice can also cause itchy skin due to increased bile salts in the bloodstream.

Risk Factors

Although the exact cause of pancreatic cancer is not always clear, several factors may increase the risk, including smoking, obesity, aging, and genetic predisposition.