Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer may cause few early symptoms. New jaundice, persistent upper abdominal or back pain and unexplained weight loss need prompt assessment.
Common signs and symptoms
Having one or more of these symptoms does not mean you have cancer. New, unexplained or persistent changes should be assessed.
- yellow skin or eyes and dark urine
- upper abdominal or back pain
- unexplained weight or appetite loss
- nausea or altered stools
- new diabetes or rapidly changing diabetes control
Risk factors
A risk factor changes probability; it does not predict who will or will not develop cancer.
- smoking
- increasing age
- chronic pancreatitis
- excess body weight
- family history or selected inherited syndromes
- diabetes can be both a risk marker and a symptom
Screening and early detection
There is no routine screening programme for average risk people. Some very high risk families may be offered specialist surveillance.
How it is investigated and diagnosed
Tests may include blood tests, pancreas protocol CT or MRI, endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy when needed.
A biopsy or specialist test is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis and exact cancer type. Your healthcare team will explain which tests are appropriate.
Common treatment approaches
Treatment is individual and depends on the cancer subtype, stage, test results, general health and the patient’s priorities.
- surgery for selected localised tumours
- chemotherapy
- radiotherapy in selected cases
- biliary stenting, enzyme replacement and symptom care
Only a qualified treating team can recommend a treatment plan.
Questions to ask your healthcare professional
- What exact cancer type and subtype has been found?
- What stage is it, and which tests established the stage?
- What are my treatment options, expected benefits and possible side effects?
- Should biomarker, genetic or inherited risk testing be considered?
- Who should I contact if my symptoms change or I need urgent help?
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent help for fever with jaundice, severe uncontrolled pain, persistent vomiting, confusion or collapse.
If someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department. CFC is not an emergency medical service.
Reliable medical sources
This guide was medically reviewed against current public information from the following authoritative organisations:
This page provides general information only. It cannot diagnose cancer, recommend treatment or replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your circumstances.