How to Recognize Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms: Early Warning Signs

Pancreatic cancer is tough to spot early because its common form, Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma or PDAC, often feels like simple acidity, indigestion or minor sugar changes. Since these symptoms seem normal, many people overlook them and the disease progresses quietly. If they persist or feel unusual, it’s important to get checked. You can consult the specialists at MGM Cancer Institute for early evaluation and guidance.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Even a small tumour of three to four centimetres can be harmful because of the pancreas’s deep position and its closeness to major blood vessels. This makes pancreatic cancer surgery a real possibility only in the early stages. PDAC is challenging to treat because it

• sits in a sensitive location surrounded by vital arteries and veins
• shows limited response to chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and radiation therapy
• spreads quickly along nerves and blood vessels

For many patients, early surgery gives the best chance of long-term survival. When pancreatic cancer becomes advanced, survival rates drop sharply.

Pancreatic Cancer in India

Pancreatic cancer is not one of India’s most common cancers, but it has a high mortality rate because people usually discover it late.

According to GLOBOCAN 2022

• India records around 13,700 new PDAC cases every year
• It ranks 23rd in incidence.
• It ranks 18th in cancer-related deaths.

These numbers highlight why awareness of pancreatic cancer causes and early symptoms is essential. With rising awareness, more people are opting for pancreatic cancer treatment in Chennai, where advanced diagnostics and surgical expertise are available.

Understanding the Pancreas and Cancer Types

The pancreas plays two important roles in the body: helping to digest food and regulating blood sugar. Pancreatic cancers mainly appear in two forms.

1. Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC)

• Accounts for over ninety percent of cases
• Very aggressive and fast spreading

2. Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours (PNETs)

• Less common
• Usually slower growing

Pancreatic cancer is medically classified under ICD-10: C25.

Pancreatic Cancer Causes and Risk Factors

Many lifestyle habits and medical conditions can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. These include

• Smoking
• Frequent alcohol use
• Obesity
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Long-term diabetes
• Exposure to harmful chemicals

Some people may also have genetic risk factors such as BRCA or MMR gene mutations, although hereditary cases are less common. Leading centres like the best cancer hospitals in Chennai now offer genetic counselling for high-risk families.

Recognising Early Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms

Early symptoms are subtle and often ignored. These may include

• Persistent bloating
• Discomfort similar to gastritis
• Unexplained weight loss
• New onset of diabetes
• Nausea and loss of appetite

If these symptoms continue beyond three weeks, it is important to undergo a medical evaluation or abdominal imaging.

Late symptoms such as back pain, jaundice, pale stools and dark urine may indicate advanced disease. At this stage, treatment often requires experienced specialists, including some of the best radiation oncologists in Chennai and pancreatic surgeons at leading cancer institutes.

Improving Awareness and Early Detection

Strengthening early detection requires

• Following healthy lifestyle habits
• Understanding that pancreatic cancer can occur without obvious risks
• Encouraging routine health check-ups
• Considering abdominal imaging when symptoms persist
• Promoting genetic testing for people with a strong family history
• Seeking expert care early instead of waiting

Many people today rely on advanced centres offering pancreatic cancer treatment in Chennai that combine imaging, radiation therapy and surgical expertise to support early diagnosis.

Conclusion: Awareness Can Save Lives

Pancreatic cancer grows quietly, but early recognition can make a big difference. Being aware of symptoms and regular check ups can help people get treatment at the right time.

This Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, let us encourage early evaluation and protect more lives. For appointments, call +91 44 4251 5151.

Read also Lung Cancer Awareness Month