Pancreatic cancer, though the 10th most common cancer in the U.S., ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related death. This is largely due to late-stage diagnoses.
Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells form a tumor in the pancreas, a gland vital for digestion and blood sugar regulation. Cancers are classified as exocrine or neuroendocrine. Most are exocrine, typically pancreatic adenocarcinomas originating in the pancreatic ducts. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs), also known as islet cell tumors, develop in hormone-producing cells and generally grow slower.
While anyone can develop pancreatic cancer, it most frequently affects individuals over 45, with the average diagnosis age at 70. Historically, Black individuals and men have shown higher rates, but recent trends indicate rising rates among women and those under 55, with researchers investigating the causes.
Early stages of pancreatic cancer often present no symptoms, making diagnosis challenging. Later-stage symptoms can include abdominal or back pain, appetite loss, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, and new or worsening diabetes.
Diagnosis relies on a combination of medical history, physical exams, imaging tests like CT scans and MRIs, blood tests, and biopsies.
Risk factors include family history, genetic mutations, ethnicity, and age. Certain health conditions like chronic pancreatitis and obesity also increase risk. Lifestyle modifications can help lower risk: avoid smoking, maintain a healthy weight, eat a nutritious diet low in red and processed meats, limit alcohol intake, and minimize exposure to certain chemicals.