Pancreatic cancer is one of the most serious forms of cancer and difficult to detect in time. It is essential to know the first symptoms to be able to diagnose the disease as soon as possible. In this article, we will take a closer look at the signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of pancreatic cancer, as well as the causes of this disease.
Structure of the pancreas
The pancreas is an organ located in the upper part of the abdomen, behind the stomach. It plays an important role in digestion by producing digestive enzymes and hormones, including insulin. The pancreas is divided into three main parts: head, body and tail.
The first symptoms of pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer is often called “silent cancer” because it has no obvious symptoms in the early stages of the disease. However, certain signs may appear that should be taken seriously. These are the most common first symptoms of pancreatic cancer:
1. abdominal pain
Abdominal pain is one of the first symptoms that some people with pancreatic cancer may experience. These pains can be located in the stomach or back and can be intermittent or constant. Abdominal pain can be caused by tumor growth and pressure on surrounding organs.
2. Jaundice
Jaundice is a common symptom of pancreatic cancer. It is caused by the tumor blocking the bile duct, causing bile to be retained in the blood. Signs of jaundice include yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, dark urine, and discolored stools.
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3. Unexplained weight loss
Rapid, unexplained weight loss may be an early sign of pancreatic cancer. The tumor can disrupt the normal functioning of the pancreas, which can cause loss of appetite and decreased absorption of nutrients by the body.
4. Digestive disorders
People with pancreatic cancer may experience digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, and persistent diarrhea. These symptoms may be caused by tumor compression in the stomach and intestines.
5. Newly diagnosed diabetes
In some cases, newly diagnosed diabetes can be an early sign of pancreatic cancer. The tumor can affect the pancreas’ production of insulin, leading to increased blood sugar levels and the development of diabetes.
6. Fatigue and weakness
Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms in many health conditions, including pancreatic cancer. The tumor can cause decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping, and decreased nutrient absorption, which can lead to excessive fatigue.
7. Changes in stool
Some pancreatic cancer patients may notice changes in their stool, such as pale, oily, and smelly stools. These changes may be due to poor digestion of fats due to insufficient production of pancreatic enzymes.
8. Back pain
Back pain is common in patients with pancreatic cancer. This pain may be felt in the upper back and may radiate to the front of the chest. They may be the result of tumor growth and pressure on surrounding nerves and blood vessels.
9. Itchy skin
Itchy skin may be a rare but early symptom of pancreatic cancer. They are caused by the presence of chemicals produced by the tumor that irritate the skin.
10. Other symptoms
Other less common symptoms of pancreatic cancer may include loss of appetite, changes in the taste of food, chest pain, breathing problems, and increased urinary frequency.
Causes of pancreatic cancer
The exact cause of pancreatic cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. These are some of the possible causes of pancreatic cancer:
1. Smoking
Smoking is one of the main risk factors for pancreatic cancer. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can damage pancreatic cells and increase the risk of developing cancer.
2. Family history
People with a family history of pancreatic cancer have a higher risk of developing this disease. Certain inherited genetic mutations can increase the chance of developing pancreatic cancer.
3. Chronic pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis, a chronic inflammation of the pancreas, can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. People with chronic pancreatitis are more likely to develop a pancreatic tumor.
4. Obesity
Obesity is a risk factor for many types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. Overweight people are at greater risk of developing this disease.
5. Older age
The risk of pancreatic cancer increases with age. Most cases of pancreatic cancer occur in people over 65 years of age.
Remember that symptoms can vary from person to person, so it is essential to be alert to any changes in your body.
* PRESSE SANTÉ strives to transmit health knowledge in a language accessible to all. Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES can the information provided replace the advice of a health professional.
