10 Signs of Pancreatic Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

Did you know that pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult to diagnose? Not because it is the most aggressive, but because it often goes unnoticed until it is at an advanced stage. However, this insidious cancer sends signals, often subtle, that we tend to overlook. What if your body was trying to alert you? Here are 10 signs that could reveal a problem and that are important to take into account.

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer

The pancreas,  located behind the stomach , plays a key role in  digestion and regulating blood sugar . When cancer develops there, it disrupts these vital functions and can spread quickly. Unfortunately,  symptoms often appear late , making the disease difficult to detect in time.

But then, how can we recognize the first warning signs?

10 signs to watch out for

1. Unexplained weight loss

Are you losing weight  for no apparent reason  ? If you  haven’t changed your diet or exercise , it could be a sign of an underlying disease,  including pancreatic cancer .

2. Sudden jaundice

Is your skin or the whites of your eyes  turning yellow  ? This could be due to a  buildup of bilirubin , a sign that  the liver is blocked …and the pancreas could be to blame.

3. Persistent abdominal pain

Discomfort  or pain in the abdomen , sometimes radiating to the back,  especially after meals  ? This common symptom  of pancreatic cancer  can be confused with  common digestive disorders , but  if it persists, it is best to consult a doctor .

4. Unusual digestive problems

Bloating, diarrhea, frequent indigestion… The pancreas produces  essential digestive enzymes . If their production is impaired,  your digestive system will send you warning signals .

5. Sudden onset of diabetes

A  recent diagnosis of diabetes , especially  without a family history , can be  an early sign . Since the pancreas is responsible for producing insulin, cancer can  disrupt this process .

6. Abnormal stools

Light-colored, oily, or floating stools may   indicate that  your pancreas is no longer producing enough digestive enzymes .  A sign not to be taken lightly!

7. Intense and unexplained fatigue

Persistent fatigue ,  even after a good night’s sleep, may be  a sign that your body is fighting a serious illness .

8. Persistent back pain

Unexplained back pain may   be related to  pressure from a pancreatic tumor on nearby nerves .

9. Blood clot formation

Painful swelling  in a leg ,  unusual redness  ? Cancers,  including pancreatic cancer , increase  the risk of thrombosis .

10. Frequent nausea and vomiting

If you  have impaired digestion ,  feel full quickly  , or have  persistent nausea , your digestive system may be  affected by a pancreatic tumor .

What to do if you have symptoms?

These symptoms may be related to  other causes . However,  if several signs persist or worsen , it is essential to  consult a doctor .  Early detection  can make  all the difference .

Who is at risk?

Certain  factors increase the risk  of developing pancreatic cancer:

• Age  : The majority of cases occur  after age 60 .
• Smoking  : Caused in around  20% of cases .
• Diabetes : An often underestimated  risk factor  .
• Obesity  : Increases risk by  20% .
• Family history  : Is a loved one affected?  Be vigilant.
• Exposure to certain chemicals  : Particularly in  metalworking and dry cleaning .

• How to reduce risks?

  

  There is  no absolute prevention , but adopting  a healthy lifestyle  can help:

  • Quitting smoking  : A gesture that  considerably reduces the risks .
  • Watch your diet  : Favor  fruits, vegetables and foods rich in fiber .
  • Limit alcohol  : Excessive consumption  increases the risk .
  • Exercise  : Regular physical activity  prevents many diseases , including  some cancers .

  The main thing to remember

  Pancreatic cancer is  difficult to detect , but  not undetectable . By  listening to your body  and adopting  a healthy lifestyle , you can put  all the chances on your side . If  you or a loved one have several of these symptoms , don’t wait:  see a doctor .  Prevention is better than cure!

  Share this article to raise awareness among your loved ones. You could save a life!