Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a malignancy of the pancreas, a gland behind the stomach that makes digestive juices and blood sugar hormones, and it usually starts in the juice-producing cells. It can affect anyone, but becomes more likely after the age of 65 and is uncommon below 40. Risk rises with smoking, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes of long standing, certain inherited disorders and a family history of the cancer. Early disease often causes no symptoms; later features are yellowing of the skin and eyes, abdominal and back pain, weight loss and tiredness. Because the pancreas lies behind other organs, tumours cannot be felt during routine examination, so diagnosis relies on blood tests, imaging and biopsy. Surgery is possible only when a tumour can be removed completely, which is often not so at diagnosis. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy are used in selected patients, often in combination.

See a doctor without delay for a new lump, a sore that does not heal, unexplained bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or a persistent change in bowel or bladder habit. Take up screening invitations: most cancers are easier to treat when found early. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.