Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the pancreas begin to grow uncontrollably. The pancreas, located behind the stomach, plays a key role in digestion and blood sugar control. Unfortunately, this form of cancer is often detected late because its symptoms appear only after it has progressed.
Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and who should undergo screening is therefore essential. At Venkateshwar Hospitals, our oncology experts combine advanced technology with compassionate care to effectively manage pancreatic cancer.
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of the pancreas, a gland that produces digestive enzymes and hormones, such as insulin. The most common type is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which starts in the ducts that carry digestive fluids.
This cancer is difficult to detect in its early stages because the pancreas is located deep in the abdomen, and early tumours rarely cause symptoms. By the time noticeable signs appear, the disease may have already spread to nearby organs.
Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms
Early Symptoms
In the initial stages, symptoms may be mild or vague, which makes them easy to overlook. Typical early signs include:
- Persistent abdominal pain that may spread to the back.
- Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss.
- Fatigue and general weakness.
Advanced Symptoms
As the cancer advances, symptoms become more pronounced and may include:
- Jaundice, yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bile duct blockage.
- Dark urine and pale stools: Indicating changes in bile flow.
- Digestive problems: Nausea, bloating, or difficulty digesting fatty foods.
- Blood clots or skin itching: Resulting from circulation or bile issues.
Why Symptoms Are Often Overlooked?
The early symptoms of pancreatic cancer often resemble common digestive problems or back pain, causing delays in diagnosis. Regular medical check-ups are essential, especially for those at higher risk due to family history or lifestyle factors.
Pancreatic Cancer Causes
Understanding what causes pancreatic cancer is key to identifying those at risk and taking preventive steps early. While the exact cause remains unclear, several lifestyle habits, medical conditions, and genetic factors have been linked to a higher likelihood of developing the disease. Recognising these causes can help guide timely screening and lifestyle changes to improve pancreatic health.
1. Lifestyle & Environmental Risk Factors
Certain habits and environmental exposures can increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer:
- Smoking: Tobacco use is one of the strongest risk factors.
- Obesity and poor diet: Diets high in red meat, processed foods, and unhealthy fats can contribute to the risk.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Long-term heavy drinking can lead to chronic inflammation of the pancreas.
2. Medical Risk Factors
Some medical conditions may predispose a person to pancreatic cancer:
- Diabetes, particularly new-onset or poorly controlled diabetes, is recognised as both a risk factor and an early indicator in some cases.
- Chronic pancreatitis, or ongoing inflammation of the pancreas over time, can increase cancer risk.
- Family history or genetic mutations, including inherited mutations such as BRCA2, PALB2, or Lynch syndrome, significantly elevate the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer.
Age & Demographics
Pancreatic cancer is more common in older adults, typically affecting those above 60 years of age. It also appears slightly more frequently in men than in women.
Screening Recommendations and Early Detection
Routine screening is not recommended for the general population because pancreatic cancer is relatively rare and often asymptomatic in early stages. However, screening is advised for high-risk individuals, particularly those with:
- Inherited genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA2, PALB2, Lynch syndrome)
- A strong family history of pancreatic cancer
- Two or more first-degree relatives diagnosed with pancreatic cancer
Screening typically begins at age 50, or 10 years younger than the earliest pancreatic cancer diagnosis in the family.
Preferred screening methods include MRI, MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography), or Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) for accurate and minimally invasive detection of early pancreatic changes.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience persistent abdominal pain, unexplained jaundice, sudden weight loss, or dark-coloured urine, it is important to consult a doctor. These symptoms may not always indicate cancer, but only a medical evaluation can confirm the cause.
Individuals with high-risk factors should consider genetic counselling and regular imaging-based screening as advised by their oncologist. Timely consultation can help in early detection and improved treatment outcomes.
To schedule a detailed evaluation, book an appointment at Venkateshwar Hospitals.
Why Choose Venkateshwar Hospitals for Pancreatic Cancer Care?
Venkateshwar Hospitals offers expert, personalised care for pancreatic cancer with advanced diagnostics and a multidisciplinary approach.
- Advanced Diagnostics: CT, MRI, MRCP, and Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) for precise detection and staging.
- Expert Oncology Team: Collaboration of medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists for optimal treatment.
- Tailored Treatment Plans: Chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and surgery customised for each patient.
- Patient-Centred Care: Compassionate support from diagnosis through follow-up for better outcomes.
Prognosis of Pancreatic Cancer
The prognosis of pancreatic cancer depends mainly on the stage at diagnosis and the patient’s overall health. Early-stage pancreatic cancer detected before it spreads to surrounding tissues or distant organs has a significantly better outlook, with surgical removal offering the best chance for long-term survival. However, because symptoms often appear late, many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, limiting treatment options.
With timely intervention and a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies, patient outcomes can improve. Supportive care, regular monitoring, and lifestyle modifications also contribute to quality of life and treatment success. At Venkateshwar Hospitals, personalised treatment plans and advanced care increase the likelihood of positive outcomes, even in complex cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who treats pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is treated by oncologists, including surgical, medical, and radiation specialists, along with gastroenterologists.
2. What are the first warning signs of pancreatic cancer?
Early signs include abdominal pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight loss.
3. What are the main causes of pancreatic cancer?
Common causes include smoking, obesity, diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, and genetic mutations like BRCA2 and Lynch syndrome.
4. Is pancreatic cancer hereditary?
Yes, it can be hereditary in some cases, especially when genetic mutations like BRCA2, PALB2, or Lynch syndrome are present.
5. Does smoking increase the risk of pancreatic cancer?
Yes, smoking is a major risk factor and can significantly increase the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer.
6. At what age is pancreatic cancer most common?
It is most frequently diagnosed in individuals over 60 years of age.
7. Can pancreatic cancer be detected early?
Early detection is challenging, but MRI, MRCP, or EUS screening may help those with a family history or genetic risk.
8. What are the common complications of pancreatic cancer?
Jaundice, weight loss, pain, and digestive issues are common as the disease progresses.
9. Can lifestyle changes lower the risk of pancreatic cancer?
Healthy eating, regular exercise, maintaining an ideal weight, and avoiding tobacco can help lower risk.
10. What facilities does Venkateshwar Hospitals offer for pancreatic cancer care?
The hospital offers advanced imaging (CT, MRI, MRCP, EUS), accurate diagnosis, multidisciplinary treatment, and rehabilitation support for holistic cancer care.
Medically Reviewed by — Dr. Rudra Prasad Acharya ( Director – Surgical Oncology & Robotic Surgery )
