15806 Pancreatic Cancer
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Pancreatic cancer is a disease in which cells in the pancreas, an organ behind the stomach, grow out of control. The pancreas makes digestive juices and hormones, including insulin, that help control blood sugar. When these cells grow into a tumor, they can affect how the pancreas works.
Key facts
- Pancreatic cancer is often found at a later stage, but treatments are improving.
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) is a common early warning sign.
- Treatment is tailored to each person based on the type, stage, and overall health.
Pancreatic cancer is less common than some other cancers, but it is one of the leading causes of cancer death in the UK. Around 1 in 55 people may develop it during their lifetime.
It most often affects people over 60, but it can happen in younger adults. Smoking, long-term diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, and a family history of the condition can increase the risk.
Symptoms
- Severe or sudden abdominal pain that does not go away
- Vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down
- Jaundice with a fever or shaking chills
- Confusion, fainting, or passing out
- ⚠Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- ⚠New or worsening back or stomach pain
- ⚠Unexplained weight loss
- ⚠Dark urine or very pale stools
Common symptoms
- Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools)
- Pain in the stomach or back that may spread
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Feeling very tired
- Feeling sick or vomiting
- New diagnosis of diabetes or difficulty controlling existing diabetes
Causes
Main causes
- The exact cause is not known. Pancreatic cancer starts when cells in the pancreas develop changes in their DNA. These changes cause the cells to grow and divide out of control, forming a tumor.
- Most of the time, there is no clear reason why it happened.
Risk factors
- Smoking or using other tobacco products
- Long-term type 2 diabetes
- Chronic pancreatitis (long-term inflammation of the pancreas)
- Obesity
- A family history of pancreatic cancer or inherited gene changes, such as BRCA2
- Age over 60
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- You notice yellowing of your skin or eyes
- You have severe or persistent pain in your stomach or back
- You are vomiting and cannot keep fluids down
- You have lost weight without trying
Book a routine appointment if:
- You have ongoing indigestion, bloating, or a change in bowel habits
- You feel very tired or lose your appetite for more than a few weeks
- Your diabetes control has worsened without a clear reason
Diagnosis
A doctor will ask about your symptoms, examine you, and arrange blood tests, scans, and often a small sample called a biopsy. You may be referred to a specialist team for these tests.
Tests that may be done
- Blood tests, including liver function and tumour markers
- Ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
- Biopsy (taking a small tissue sample to look at under a microscope)
What to expect at your appointment
Diagnosing pancreatic cancer takes time. You will have several tests and then meet with your care team to discuss the results. You will not be alone in this process, and you can ask questions at every step.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer (how far it has spread), where it is in the pancreas, and your overall health. Your healthcare team will plan a personal approach, which may include a combination of treatments. They will also help manage symptoms such as pain or digestion problems.
Self-care at home
- Eat small, frequent meals that are easy to digest
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Rest when you need to and plan activities around your energy
- Talk to a dietitian about nutrition and enzyme replacement
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
Medical treatments
Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and medicines to help control pain or digestive symptoms. Sometimes targeted therapies are used, depending on the specific genetics of the tumour. Your care team will explain which options are suitable for you.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery may be possible if the cancer has not spread and is confined to the pancreas. The type of operation depends on the size and location of the tumour. If surgery is not an option, other treatments can slow the cancer and help you feel better.
Living with this condition
Living with pancreatic cancer often involves regular appointments, managing symptoms, and allowing time for rest. It can help to keep a list of questions for your care team and to bring someone you trust to appointments.
Lifestyle tips
- Stay active within your comfort level, even if it is a short daily walk
- Get enough rest and try to keep a regular routine
- Lean on family and friends or join a support group
- Keep a symptom diary to share with your healthcare team
Diet and exercise
Eating well can help you keep up your strength. Choose nutrient-rich foods, and ask a dietitian about enzyme tablets that help digest food. Light exercise, such as walking, can boost your energy and mood. Always check with your doctor before starting new exercises.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
A cancer diagnosis can bring worry, sadness, anger, or fear. It is completely normal to feel a wide range of emotions. Ask your care team about counselling, support groups, or other mental health services. You do not have to cope alone.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent pancreatic cancer, but you can lower your risk by not smoking, keeping a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol. Managing diabetes and treating chronic pancreatitis early may also help.
Vaccines
Vaccines do not prevent pancreatic cancer. However, staying up to date with recommended vaccines, such as flu and pneumonia vaccines, supports your overall health while you receive cancer care.
Screening programmes
There is no routine screening test for pancreatic cancer in the general public. People with a strong family history may be offered regular scans through specialist genetic clinics. Talk to your doctor if you think you are at higher risk.
Complications
If left untreated
- Jaundice and digestive problems caused by a blocked bile duct
- Weight loss and poor nutrition because the pancreas cannot make enough digestive enzymes
- Blood clots, which may travel to the lungs
- The cancer can spread to other organs, causing pain and fatigue
Long-term outlook
Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease, but outcomes are improving. New treatments and earlier detection are helping more people live longer and with a better quality of life. Your care team will support you through every step, and there is always hope.
Find support
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.