HEALTH

7 Signs of Pancreatic Cancer: Early Symptoms to Watch Out For

Signs of Pancreatic Cancer: Early Symptoms to Watch Out For
Written by Vertical Wise

Pancreatic cancer, often called a “silent killer,” develops with few noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, understanding the 7 signs of pancreatic cancer can significantly improve the chances of early detection and successful treatment. In this article, we’ll explore seven crucial symptoms of pancreatic cancer, as highlighted by a pancreatic cancer specialist in Singapore

The 7 Signs of Pancreatic Cancer to Watch For

1. Unexplained weight loss

More often than not, unexplained weight loss is a red flag. And we are not talking about the kind of weight loss you get from eating salad for lunch and running a 5K every day. This is the weight loss that sneaks up on you, where you suddenly notice that your jeans fit a little looser or your shirts are hanging off you in ways that were not intentional. 

When pancreatic cancer starts to grow, it can disrupt your body’s ability to digest food properly. The pancreas helps break down food and absorb nutrients, so if it is not working properly, you may experience unintended weight loss—even if you are eating normally.  

This weight loss can be due to malabsorption, where your body is not able to absorb nutrients effectively. If you are losing weight for no apparent reason, especially if combined with other symptoms on this list, it is worth a conversation with your doctor. Better to be safe than sorry, right? 

2. Jaundice

Jaundice is one of those signs that most people associate with liver issues, but it can also be a major indicator of pancreatic cancer. Jaundice happens when your skin and the whites of your eyes turn yellowish. Why? Because when a tumor blocks the bile duct near the pancreas, it can cause a buildup of bilirubin (a substance produced by the liver). This buildup turns your skin yellow.   

You might also notice darker urine, pale-colored stools, and itchy skin if jaundice is present. If your skin starts looking like you have spent a little too much time in the sun without sunscreen, it is time to get checked out by a doctor. While jaundice can occur for reasons other than cancer, it is a symptom that should never be ignored, especially if it comes on suddenly. 

3. Abdominal pain and back pain that persist

Pancreatic cancer can cause persistent abdominal pain or back pain, and it might not even feel like a typical stomach ache. The pain usually starts in the upper abdomen, just under the ribcage, and it can feel deep, gnawing, or aching. As the tumor grows, it can press against nearby organs, nerves, or blood vessels, leading to discomfort. 

Here is where it gets a little tricky: the pain can radiate to your back. So, you might be thinking, “I’ve got a bad back, no big deal.” But if the pain feels different from your usual back pain, or it seems to come and go at strange times (like after eating), it is worth checking in with your healthcare provider. 

 Pancreatic cancer pain may worsen after eating, especially meals high in fat, which is a clue that the pancreas is not processing food as it should. The longer the pain persists without an obvious cause, the more important it becomes to get it checked out. 

4. Loss of appetite

Ever have those days when food just does not appeal to you, and you are not sure why? Now imagine that feeling lasting for weeks. A loss of appetite is another common sign of pancreatic cancer, and it can come hand-in-hand with the weight loss we talked about earlier. When your pancreas is not functioning properly, digestion gets thrown off, and your body may not feel like eating. 

But it is not just about feeling “meh” toward food. You might also feel full very quickly when you eat, even if you have not had much to eat in the first place. This feeling of early fullness is known as early satiety, and it can make meals feel less satisfying or downright unappealing. 

If your appetite has significantly decreased or you are finding yourself skipping meals more than usual, take note. It could be a sign that your body is trying to tell you something’s off. 

5. Digestive issues

Pancreatic cancer can mess with your digestion in multiple ways, and the symptoms often look like other common stomach problems. You might experience frequent indigestion, gas, nausea, or diarrhea. The cancer affects the pancreas’s ability to produce enzymes that help break down food, and this can lead to undigested food in your stomach or intestines. 

You could also notice that your stools become greasy or pale, a condition known as steatorrhea. This happens when your body is unable to absorb fat properly, and it can lead to unusual-smelling, floating stools. It is not a fun symptom to talk about, but it is a good indicator that something is wrong with your digestive system. 

6. Fatigue

We all get tired now and then. But extreme fatigue — the kind that does not improve with rest or a good night’s sleep—can be a sign of something more serious. Fatigue in pancreatic cancer patients is often linked to malnutrition, as the body is not absorbing nutrients properly. It can also be related to the physical strain of dealing with pain and discomfort from other symptoms. 

If you are feeling wiped out despite taking care of yourself, it might be worth seeing a healthcare provider to rule out underlying causes. And, yes, fatigue can be caused by a million different things, but when paired with other signs like weight loss or abdominal pain, it is important to get checked out. 

7. New-onset diabetes

This might come as a surprise, but pancreatic cancer can lead to new-onset diabetes. The pancreas’s main function is to produce insulin, which is important in regulating the levels of blood sugar. If a tumor interferes with this function, it can result in difficulty controlling your blood sugar, even if you have never had issues before.    

If you suddenly start experiencing signs of diabetes—like increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, or unexplained weight loss—it is worth getting your blood sugar levels checked. New-onset diabetes, especially if you do not have other typical risk factors, should be taken seriously.  

What to Do if You Notice These Symptoms

  • Don’t Ignore the Signs: If you experience any of these symptoms persistently, consult a doctor immediately.
  • Seek Expert Care: A pancreatic cancer specialist can evaluate your symptoms through imaging tests, blood work, and physical exams.
  • Act Quickly: Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment and better outcomes.

Conclusion: Take Action Early

Pancreatic cancer often presents subtle warning signs, such as unexplained weight loss, jaundice, and persistent pain. Recognizing these symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention can make a life-saving difference.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a specialist like Dr. Lee Chin Li in Singapore. With advanced diagnostic tools and expertise in pancreatic cancer treatment, early intervention is within reach.


Dr. Lee Chin Li
Lee Surgery and Endoscopy
Specialist in Colorectal and Gallbladder Surgery

Clinic Locations:

  • Gleneagles Medical Centre
    Lee Surgery and Endoscopy
    6 Napier Road, #04-16, Singapore 258499
  • Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre (Orchard)
    Dr. Lee @ KYM Surgery
    3 Mount Elizabeth, #12-01, Singapore 228510
  • Farrer Park Medical Centre
    Dr. Lee @ KYM Surgery
    1 Farrer Park Station Road, #13-05, Singapore 217562

Contact Information:
Phone: +65 8952 6327
Website: www.leesurgery.com

About the author

Vertical Wise

Vertical Wise is an international website dedicated to supporting and promoting the world of pole dancing and aerial fitness. Our mission is to spread awareness, share knowledge, and celebrate the incredible artistry and athleticism of these disciplines. Join us as we connect enthusiasts, athletes, and professionals from around the globe, fostering a vibrant community that inspires and empowers individuals to reach new heights in their fitness journey.

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