Pancreatic Cancer

Also known as: Pancreas cancer, pancreatic tumor, pancreatic carcinoma, cancer of the pancreas, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, exocrine pancreatic cancer

Last Updated: October 31, 2026

Key Points

Often called a "silent" cancer because early symptoms are vague or absent
Most commonly diagnosed after age 60
Diagnosis usually involves imaging scans and sometimes a biopsy
Treatment options depend on whether the tumor can be surgically removed
Chemotherapy and radiation are used both before and after surgery
Risk factors include smoking, chronic pancreatitis, and family history

Overview

Commonly affected areas:

Pancreatic cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the pancreas, an organ that produces digestive enzymes and blood-sugar-regulating hormones. It is frequently diagnosed at a later stage because early tumors often cause few noticeable symptoms. Outcomes and treatment choices depend heavily on the tumor's location, size, and whether it has spread beyond the pancreas at the time of diagnosis.

Signs and Symptoms

People with pancreatic cancer may experience:

Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
Pain in the upper abdomen that may radiate to the back
Dark urine and pale, greasy stools
New-onset or worsening diabetes
Persistent fatigue and general weakness

Things That Increase the Risk

Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include:

Long-term tobacco smoking
Chronic pancreatitis
Family history of pancreatic cancer or related genetic syndromes
Long-standing diabetes
Obesity and a diet high in processed or red meat
Older age, particularly past 60

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:

CT or MRI imaging of the abdomen
Endoscopic ultrasound to closely examine the pancreas
Biopsy to confirm cancer cells
Blood tests for tumor markers such as CA 19-9
Staging scans to check for spread to other organs

Treatment & Management

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What You Can Do

Patients can support their treatment by maintaining nutrition, managing pain and blood sugar levels closely with their care team, and attending all scheduled follow-up scans.

Follow nutritional guidance to manage weight loss
Take enzyme supplements if digestion is affected
Monitor and manage blood sugar levels
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments

Medical Options

Medical management centers on chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, chosen based on how advanced the cancer is at diagnosis and whether the tumor can be safely removed.

Chemotherapy to shrink or control tumor growth
Radiation therapy, often combined with chemotherapy
Surgical removal of the tumor when feasible
Pain management and supportive care

Prevention

Steps that may help reduce risk include:

While pancreatic cancer cannot always be prevented, certain habits may lower risk.

Avoiding tobacco use
Maintaining a healthy body weight
Limiting alcohol consumption
Managing diabetes and chronic pancreatitis under medical care
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

Quick Info

Type →

Malignant / Oncological

Affected Areas →

Pancreas, nearby lymph nodes

Common Age →

60 and older

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