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Pancreatic cancer alert: 7 signs you shouldn’t ignore

The silent killer
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The silent killer
Pancreatic cancer is often called a “silent killer” because it shows few symptoms in its early stages. Recognizing these subtle signs early can improve chances of diagnosis and treatment.
Persistent abdominal pain
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Persistent abdominal pain
A dull, constant pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back can signal pancreatic cancer. It may worsen after eating or lying down, often overlooked as indigestion.
Unexplained weight loss
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Unexplained weight loss
Sudden weight loss without diet or exercise changes can be an early sign. Cancer affects digestion and nutrient absorption, causing muscle loss and fatigue even with normal food intake.
Jaundice
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Jaundice
Yellowing of skin and eyes indicates bile duct blockage, a common pancreatic cancer symptom. It may also cause dark urine, pale stools, and intense itching.
Loss of appetite
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Loss of appetite
A sudden disinterest in eating, even favourite foods, can be linked to digestive disruption caused by tumours pressing on nearby organs, affecting hunger signals.
Changes in stool
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Changes in stool
Greasy, pale, or foul-smelling stools that float indicate fat malabsorption, often a sign of pancreatic or bile duct problems. Persistent digestive changes should be investigated.
New-onset diabetes
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New-onset diabetes
Pancreatic cancer can disrupt insulin production, leading to sudden diabetes in individuals without risk factors. Fluctuating blood sugar levels may be an early warning.
Nausea and vomiting
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Nausea and vomiting
Tumour growth can press on the stomach, causing feelings of nausea, bloating, and vomiting, especially after meals. This is often misdiagnosed as gastritis or acid reflux.
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