On World Pancreatic Cancer Day, Oncologist Shares 5 Early Warning Signs to Watch

The pancreas is a small but vital organ in the body that helps with digestion and blood sugar control. Despite its importance, pancreatic problems often go unnoticed until they become serious. Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer and is the twelfth most common worldwide. Awareness of early signs is crucial because detecting problems early can improve survival chances significantly. On World Pancreatic Cancer Day 2025, Dr. Prasant Chandra, Surgical Oncologist, shared five signs that may indicate pancreatic issues, urging people not to ignore subtle symptoms.

The first sign to watch for is persistent abdominal pain that radiates to the back. Many people mistake dull, ongoing pain in the upper abdomen for common stomach problems. Dr. Chandra explains that this discomfort may worsen after eating or when lying down. It can be caused by conditions like pancreatitis, where digestive enzymes attack the pancreas itself. Gallstones, excessive alcohol use, or tumors may trigger this problem. If such pain continues, it is important to consult a doctor immediately to rule out serious conditions.

Unexplained weight loss is another major warning sign. If your clothes start to feel loose despite no changes in diet or lifestyle, it could indicate that your pancreas is not functioning properly. When the pancreas cannot produce enough digestive enzymes, nutrients are not absorbed efficiently, leading to weight loss even if appetite remains normal. Dr. Chandra warns that sudden weight loss combined with fatigue, bloating, or oily stools may point to chronic pancreatitis or even pancreatic cancer. Monitoring these changes and acting early can make a significant difference.

Changes in stool patterns and the appearance of jaundice are also important to note. Stools that are pale, greasy, foul-smelling, or float in water may suggest that fats are not being digested properly due to pancreatic issues. Similarly, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, and itchy skin may signal jaundice, often linked to liver or pancreatic problems. Many people mistake these symptoms for minor infections and delay seeking help, which can worsen outcomes. Persistent digestive changes or signs of jaundice should always prompt a visit to a healthcare professional.

Finally, sudden diabetes or erratic blood sugar levels in adults over 50 can indicate pancreatic problems. The pancreas produces insulin, which controls blood sugar. If the organ is damaged, insulin production drops, causing fluctuations in blood sugar levels. In 10–15% of pancreatic cancer cases, diabetes develops just months before the cancer is diagnosed. Dr. Chandra emphasizes that early testing, including blood tests for amylase, lipase, and tumor markers, along with imaging techniques like CT scans or endoscopic ultrasound, can help detect pancreatic disease sooner and improve survival rates. Early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer can allow for surgical treatment with a survival rate of about 60% in eligible cases.

Being aware of these signs and acting promptly can save lives. Regular check-ups, timely investigations, and attention to the body’s subtle changes are key steps to maintaining pancreatic health. Pancreatic problems are not always obvious, but understanding the warning signs, including abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, changes in stool, jaundice, and sudden diabetes, can lead to early intervention and better outcomes.