Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer, Risk Factors, and Diagnosis

Posted on: Mar 24, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer, Risk Factors, and Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of cancer is crucial for effective treatment and enhancing survival rates. Unlike some cancers which have noticeable symptoms, in pancreatic cancer, the challenge lies in early detection and treatment because the signs and symptoms rarely manifest in the early stages. Recognising the early symptoms can be difficult because they are subtle and easily mistaken for other common health issues, leading to delayed diagnosis. Understanding the early symptoms of pancreatic cancer in women and the potential warning signs of pancreatic cancer will help in early diagnosis, timely medical intervention, and improved treatments.

What is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer develops in the pancreas when the cells undergo mutations and grow uncontrollably, forming tumours. The pancreas is a gland located behind the stomach and plays a crucial role in digestion and regulating blood sugar. Pancreatic cancer is usually detected in the advanced stage because the early symptoms are subtle and overlooked as a common ailment.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer in Women

In the early stages, pancreatic cancer often doesn’t cause any symptoms. Symptoms typically show up in the advanced stage when the tumour grows in size or spreads to other parts of the body. Some of the common signs and symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal and back pain

• Weight loss

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, itchy skin, pale coloured stools)

• Gastrointestinal problems such as loss of appetite, bloating, indigestion, etc.

• Fatigue

• Enlarged liver or gall bladder

• Blood clots

• Diabetes

Risk Factors

Some of the factors which increase the risk of pancreatic cancer are:

• Pancreatitis or chronic inflammation of the pancreas

• Family history of pancreatic cancer

• Type 2 diabetes

• Obesity

• Smoking and consumption of alcohol

• People above the age of 60

• Exposure to chemicals, pesticides, etc

Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer

If your healthcare provider suspects pancreatic cancer based on your symptoms, you have to undergo certain tests to confirm the diagnosis. The tests include blood tests, imaging tests (CT scan, PET scan, MRI, ultrasound), endoscopic ultrasound, tissue biopsy, and gene testing. After the diagnosis is confirmed, the healthcare provider will check the stage of cancer to start the treatment.

Can Pancreatic Cancer be Prevented?

Pancreatic cancer cannot be prevented. However, you can reduce the risk with these tips:

• Quit smoking. Smokers are 2-3 times more likely to develop cancer, particularly exocrine pancreatic tumours.

• Maintain a healthy weight by consuming a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Obesity increases the risk of pancreas cancer.

• Limit alcohol consumption.

• Consume a lot of vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins such as fish, poultry, and beans. Limit your intake of processed foods, sugary foods and beverages, and red meat.

Conclusion

The lack of symptoms of pancreatic cancer in women makes it difficult to detect the disease in its early stages. Being aware of the signs and symptoms will help in the early detection and management of the disease, thus improving the patient’s overall quality of life. For financial security against the high treatment costs, you must have family health insurance or critical illness insurance. Before you buy health insurance online, compare multiple health plans offered by different insurance providers and select the one that aligns with the medical needs of your parents or family.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

Pancreas Cancer: 5 Things You Need To Know

25 Frequently Asked Questions on Cancer Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide

11 Common Women Health Issues You Should Know

Benefits of Cancer Health Insurance

Women-Centric Insurance Plans: Here is Why You Need Them