What are the early signs of pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas, a gland located behind the stomach. It is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, with a five-year survival rate of less than 5%.

Early pancreatic cancer often has no symptoms. As the cancer grows, it can cause symptoms such as:

- Abdominal pain that may be worse in the upper abdomen

- Back pain

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Weight loss

- Loss of appetite

- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)

- Clay-colored stools

- Dark urine

- Fatigue

- Itchy skin

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away, as early diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer can improve your chances of survival.

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing pancreatic cancer, including:

- Age: Pancreatic cancer is more common in people over the age of 50.

- Smoking: Smoking is the most significant risk factor for pancreatic cancer.

- Obesity: People who are obese are more likely to develop pancreatic cancer.

- Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop pancreatic cancer.

- Chronic pancreatitis: People with chronic pancreatitis are more likely to develop pancreatic cancer.

- Family history of pancreatic cancer: People with a family history of pancreatic cancer are more likely to develop the disease.

If you have any of these risk factors, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer.