Pancreatic cancer has a low survival rate, largely due to the fact that it is difficult to diagnose at an early stage
Pancreatic cancer, while relatively rare, is a serious condition that often goes undetected until it’s in an advanced stage. It has one of the lowest survival rates post-diagnosis.
Recent studies show that the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is alarmingly low, hovering around 10%, and can even drop to as low as 4.3%. Early detection is key to effective treatment.
Dr Alexis Missick from UK Meds has highlighted some of the main warning signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer, emphasising that early detection can greatly impact the prognosis of this disease.
Early signs of pancreatic cancer
Losing weight unexpectedly
If you find yourself shedding pounds without a clear reason, such as changes in diet or exercise, it’s cause for concern. This weight loss occurs because pancreatic cancer can affect your body’s ability to digest food properly. Weight loss is highly prevalent among pancreatic cancer patients.
Jaundice
If you find that your skin and eyes are becoming more yellow in complexion, your urine is a darker shade of yellow or orange and your stools are pale in colour, this is another early cause for concern. Jaundice occurs when pancreatic cancer blocks the bile ducts, affecting the flow of bile.
Stomach pain and back pain
If you’re experiencing stomach pain or back pain that initially comes and goes and is exacerbated after eating or lying down, this is another early indicator of potential pancreatic cancer. This pain often becomes more noticeable as the tumour grows. If you experience any of the above early symptoms, it’s vital to consult your doctor as soon as you can to get advice.
Later symptoms of pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer may manifest with several follow-on symptoms, including:
Loss of appetite: A decreased appetite is common due to digestive issues caused by pancreatic cancer, particularly if a patient notices an aversion to meat.
Digestive problems: Pancreatic cancer can lead to difficulty digesting fatty foods, resulting in oily, foul-smelling stools and diarrhoea.
New-onset diabetes: Sometimes, pancreatic cancer can trigger diabetes, even in people who haven’t had it before.
Early detection
Pancreatic cancer symptoms typically become noticeable when the disease is in its later stages after the tumour has invaded surrounding tissues or spread to distant organs. This is one of the reasons why early detection of pancreatic cancer is challenging and why routine check-ups with your doctor or GP are so important. It emphasises the importance of being vigilant about your health, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of pancreatic cancer or smoking.
Yes, some of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer can mimic those of less serious conditions. For example, Pancreatic Cancer Action (2023) states that studies into pancreatic cancer diagnosis have highlighted that the condition can sometimes be misdiagnosed for less serious health conditions, due the symptoms of the disease being vague.
Pancreatic cancer can sometimes be misdiagnosed for more common conditions such as:
- IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
- Diverticulitis (intestinal inflammation)
- Heartburn & reflux (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)
- Gallbladder disease
- Muscular pain
- Peptic ulcers
That’s why it’s crucial not to jump to conclusions but to consult a healthcare professional when these symptoms arise. A proper diagnosis is the key to distinguishing pancreatic cancer from other ailments.
When to see a GP
You should visit your GP or call NHS 111 at the first sign of pancreatic cancer symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time. Early diagnosis can improve the chances of successful treatment or provide reassurance if your symptoms are due to a less serious condition. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice, and be sure to mention any risk factors or family history that may be relevant. Your GP can guide you through the necessary tests and referrals to specialists, if needed.
