Pancreatic Cancer
Description
Cancer that begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ that lies behind the lower part of the stomach. It is often detected late, spreads rapidly, and has a poor prognosis. There are two main types: exocrine tumors and endocrine tumors.
Common Symptoms
- Abdominal pain that radiates to your back
- Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss
- Yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
- Light-colored stools
- Dark-colored urine
- New-onset diabetes
- Fatigue
Common Causes
- The cause is not well understood. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), family history, and obesity.
Treatment Information
Treatment options are chosen based on the extent of the cancer. They may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these.
Important: This information is for educational purposes only.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.