Dr Alexis Missick says signs of hidden cancer include one in the bathroom

Although relatively rare, pancreatic cancer is a serious condition that can often go unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage, with one of the lowest survival rates after diagnosis. Recent research found that the pancreatic cancer survival rate is very low, with five-year survival currently approaching 10%, though it can be as low as 4.3% in some circumstances. Detecting it early is crucial for effective treatment.

Dr Alexis Missick from UK Meds explained there are key red flags and symptoms of pancreatic cancer and said the earlier you get help, the better the outcome could be.

What are the first red flag signs of pancreatic cancer?

Unexpected Weight Loss

If you find yourself shedding pounds without a clear reason, such as changes in diet or exercise, it's cause for concern. This weight loss occurs because pancreatic cancer can affect your body's ability to digest food properly. Weight loss is highly prevalent among pancreatic cancer patients.

Jaundice

If you find that your skin and eyes are becoming more yellow in complexion, your urine is a darker shade of yellow or orange and your stools are pale in colour, this is another early cause for concern. Jaundice occurs when pancreatic cancer blocks the bile ducts, affecting the flow of bile.

Back Pain / Stomach Pain

If you’re experiencing stomach pain or back pain that initially comes and goes and is exacerbated after eating or lying down, this is another early indicator of potential pancreatic cancer. This pain often becomes more noticeable as the tumour grows.

If you experience any of the above early symptoms, it’s vital to consult your doctor as soon as you can to get advice.

What are the other follow-on symptoms of pancreatic cancer?

Loss of appetite:

A decreased appetite is common due to digestive issues caused by pancreatic cancer, particularly if a patient notices an aversion to meat.

Digestive problems:

Pancreatic cancer can lead to difficulty digesting fatty foods, resulting in oily, foul-smelling stools and diarrhoea.

New-onset diabetes:

Sometimes, pancreatic cancer can trigger diabetes, even in people who haven't had it before.

How advanced is the disease when pancreatic cancer symptoms start to occur?

Pancreatic cancer symptoms typically become noticeable when the disease is in its later stages after the tumour has invaded surrounding tissues or spread to distant organs. This is one of the reasons why early detection of pancreatic cancer is challenging and why routine check-ups with your doctor or GP are so important. It emphasises the importance of being vigilant about your health, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of pancreatic cancer or smoking.

Could pancreatic cancer symptoms be mistaken for a less serious condition?

Yes, some of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer can mimic those of less serious conditions. For example, Pancreatic Cancer Action (2023) states that studies into pancreatic cancer diagnosis have highlighted that the condition can sometimes be misdiagnosed for less serious health conditions, due the symptoms of the disease being vague.

Pancreatic cancer can sometimes be misdiagnosed for more common conditions such as:

• IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
• Diverticulitis (intestinal inflammation)
• Heartburn & reflux (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)
• Gallbladder disease
• Muscular pain
• Peptic ulcers

That's why it's crucial not to jump to conclusions but to consult a healthcare professional when these symptoms arise. A proper diagnosis is the key to distinguishing pancreatic cancer from other ailments.

When should you see a GP about pancreatic cancer?

You should visit your GP or call NHS 111 at the first sign of pancreatic cancer symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time. Early diagnosis can improve the chances of successful treatment or provide reassurance if your symptoms are due to a less serious condition. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice, and be sure to mention any risk factors or family history that may be relevant. Your GP can guide you through the necessary tests and referrals to specialists, if needed.