Pancreatic Cancer

What is pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer happens when infectious cells grow out of control in the tissues of the pancreas. Because the pancreas sits deep in the abdomen and symptoms can be subtle, pancreatic cancer is often hard to detect early. Understanding what causes pancreatic cancer, recognizing the early signs and learning how pancreatic cancer is diagnosed can help you know what to look for and when to seek care.

Overview

The pancreas is a gland behind the stomach that helps regulate blood sugar and supports digestion. Pancreatic cancer is less common than many other cancers. It is one of the most challenging cancers to treat because it often develops without symptoms. Learning about pancreatic cancer stages, risk factors and common symptoms can help you make informed decisions about your health.

What are the common types of pancreatic cancer?

The two main types of pancreatic cancer are:

• Exocrine tumors – including pancreatic adenocarcinoma, which make up the vast majority of cases.
• Endocrine tumors – also called pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, which are less common and often behave differently.

Your care team will explain the type you have and how it guides your best pancreatic cancer treatment options.

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of pancreatic cancer?
Early signs of pancreatic cancer can be hard to recognize, and easy to miss if you don't know what to look for.

Symptoms may include:

• Abdominal or back pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Nausea or changes in digestion
• New or worsening diabetes

Risk Factors

Anyone can get pancreatic cancer. However, there are some common risk factors for pancreatic cancer that may increase your chance of getting pancreatic cancer. These risk factors include:

• Being 55 or older
• Family history of pancreatic cancer
• Chronic pancreatitis
• Smoking
• Obesity or poor diet
• Certain genetic conditions

Risk does not mean you will get cancer, but understanding pancreatic cancer causes can help you know what to discuss with your primary care provider.

Prevention

Can you prevent pancreatic cancer?

There is no guaranteed way to completely prevent pancreatic cancer, but healthy choices can lower your risk. Avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active and managing diabetes can all make a difference.

Are there screening tests for pancreatic cancer?

There is no routine screening test for the general population. Screening may be recommended if you have a strong family history of cancer or certain genetic syndromes. If you’re at higher risk, your provider may talk with you about specialized imaging or genetic counseling.

Diagnosis

How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?

A pancreatic cancer diagnosis usually involves imaging tests – like CT, MRI or endoscopic ultrasound – blood tests and sometimes a biopsy. Your care team explains each step so you know what to expect and why each test matters.

Treatment

How is pancreatic cancer treated?

Treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on its type and stage. Your care team may recommend:

• Surgery to remove the tumor, when possible
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Targeted or immunotherapy, depending on the tumor’s biology
• Palliative care to support symptom relief and quality of life throughout the journey

Your team will personalize your pancreatic cancer treatment plan with the goal of giving you the best possible outcome.

Is pancreatic cancer curable?

Some early-stage pancreatic cancers can be cured with surgery and additional therapy. Because many people are diagnosed later, long-term survival varies. When patients ask about the pancreatic cancer survival rate, we encourage focusing on timely evaluation, individualized treatment and whole-person support, all of which improve outcomes and quality of life.

Why is pancreatic cancer so deadly?

Pancreatic cancer can be aggressive and difficult to detect early because symptoms often appear only after it has advanced. The pancreas’ deep location also makes tumors harder to find during routine exams. Advances in imaging, genetic testing, surgical techniques and personalized therapy continue to improve outcomes every day.