Pancreatic cancer is a serious and often life-threatening disease that affects thousands of individuals every year. It has a low survival rate, mainly because it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. This means that being aware of the signs and symptoms can help detect it early, increasing the chances of successful treatment. These are the ten signs of pancreatic cancer that you should never ignore and what you need to know about this deadly type of cancer.

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer

The pancreas is an essential organ located in the abdomen that plays a crucial role in digestion and hormone production. The pancreas is responsible for producing enzymes that help break down food and hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. It also produces insulin, which is needed to convert glucose into energy. (1) Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the pancreas begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The most common type of pancreatic cancer is called adenocarcinoma, which accounts for about 95% of all cases. This type of cancer usually starts in the ducts that carry digestive juices from the pancreas to the small intestine. Other types of pancreatic cancer include neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), which are less common and tend to grow slowly; and cystic tumors, which are usually benign but can become cancerous over time. It is important to understand the early signs and symptoms of this disease in order to seek medical attention promptly.