Pancreatic cancer is concerning as its incidence is rising and it is rarely cured. Here are the warning signs.
The pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer in France. Although it is relatively rare, accounting for only 1.8% of cancers , it remains one of the most relentless . According to the latest reports from the National Cancer Institute (INCa) in 2024, the 5-year survival rate does not exceed 11% . Alarmingly, the incidence rates are steadily rising in both men and women. Recent studies by the World Health Organization (WHO) have noted a real correlation between alcohol consumption and pancreatic cancer. There is a proportional increase in risk associated with alcohol consumption, with a 36% higher risk for those consuming three pints a day (equivalent to six glasses). Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed too late . Therefore, it is crucial to share the warning signs that may alert you.
Pancreatic Cancer: A Growing Concern
There is no clear link between the alcohol consumption of the French population and the annual increase in cancer cases. However, it is prudent to minimize excessive drinking. In 2023, there were 15,991 reported cases of pancreatic cancer (8,323 among men and 7,668 among women), with an estimated 12,700 deaths across all genders due to this disease (INCa, 2024). This cancer results in a majority of fatalities. The high number of deaths can also be attributed to late detection . As noted on Cancer-Environnement.fr, “Diagnosed late, the prognosis for pancreatic cancer remains grim, with very high mortality rates. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma could become the second leading cause of cancer mortality in the years 2030-2040 (Rahib, 2014).”
Signs That Should Alert You to Pancreatic Cancer
An oncologist named Anton Bilchik revealed to Women’s Health 10 symptoms that can be challenging to recognize but should alert you immediately . Among these symptoms are common occurrences, making them easy to overlook. First, yellowing of the skin and eyes can indicate jaundice and is often recognized quickly; however, many might attribute it to other causes rather than pancreatic cancer.
Next, we have severe back pain . Many women experience back pain correlated with their menstrual cycle; however, as Dr. Bilchik states, “If the pain is constant (meaning it does not disappear once menstruation ends), it should be investigated.” Additionally, concerns may arise from itchy skin , notably around the abdomen, yet it can be generalized. Patients often mistake this for an allergy or mosquito bite, but the oncologist adds, “I have seen patients say, ‘It itches immensely at that spot,’ who when lifting their shirt, realize it has turned yellow .”
Minor Changes Often Confused with Other Illnesses
Pancreatic cancer is insidious in that its symptoms often mirror conditions we may experience daily. For instance, bloating after a large meal or prior to menstruation is common, yet it can also be an initial sign of pancreatic cancer . Similarly, loss of appetite is frequent without cause and may escalate to noticeable weight loss. This is often subtle, referred to as a 5% loss of body weight over six months to one year .
Among the additional signs, one may experience strange urination and stool changes . These can arise after consuming an atypical meal or simply from dehydration. Individuals might notice their urine is darker than usual , irrespective of fluid intake, while stools may appear lighter or even grayish. Abdominal pain can also occur; however, its mild intensity often leads to oversight. Lastly, a general physical malaise may be present even without any specific illness. For clarity, let’s list the 10 symptoms again:
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Severe back pain
- Itchy skin in the abdomen or generalized
- Constant bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Sudden weight loss
- Darker urine
- Lighter or altered stools
- Abdominal pain
- General malaise