Harvard gastroenterologist reveals 7 silent symptoms of pancreatic cancer everyone should know - The Times of India

"Awareness is the first step in prevention and early action." The quote may sound simple, but when it comes to pancreatic cancer, it carries enormous weight.Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging cancers to diagnose early. The pancreas, a small organ deep behind the stomach. It plays a vital role in digestion and blood sugar control. Because of its hidden location, a tumour can grow here for months, sometimes even years, without causing peculiar symptoms.According to the US National Cancer Institute, pancreatic cancer is often detected at an advanced stage because early symptoms are vague and can mimic several other conditions. The institute notes that symptoms such as jaundice, unexplained weight loss, and digestive problems can be among the first clues.Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at Harvard, Stanford, and AIIMS, recently highlighted seven silent signs that deserve attention. None of these symptoms automatically mean cancer. But when they appear without a clear explanation, they should not be brushed aside.Most people associate itching with allergies, dry skin, or a change in weather. But persistent itching all over the body can sometimes point to a problem inside the liver or pancreas.In certain cases, a tumour blocks the bile duct, causing bile salts to build up in the bloodstream. This can lead to intense itching even before the skin turns yellow.What makes this symptom tricky is that there may be no visible rash. The skin looks normal, yet the itching becomes difficult to ignore.Everyone has days when certain foods do not sit well. But developing an unexpected aversion to foods that were once easily tolerated is different.Some people experience nausea after meals. Others lose interest in eating altogether. There may be a feeling of fullness after eating only a small amount.The pancreas produces enzymes that help digest food. When the organ is affected by a tumour, digestion can change in subtle ways.Persistent nausea, unexplained appetite loss, or sudden food intolerance should not simply be labelled as "a weak stomach" or stress without proper assessment.Jaundice is one of the better-known signs of pancreatic cancer.It happens when a tumour blocks the bile duct, preventing bile from draining normally. As bilirubin builds up in the body, the skin and the whites of the eyes can turn yellow.Some people also notice dark urine and lighter-coloured stools.Jaundice may appear earlier when the tumour develops in the head of the pancreas. Tumours in other parts of the pancreas may grow for longer before causing this symptom.Any new onset of jaundice should be considered a medical emergency and requires prompt evaluation.Back pain is extremely common, especially among people who sit for long hours or lift heavy objects. But pancreatic cancer-related back pain often feels different.It is usually a dull, nagging ache in the middle of the back and may continue despite rest or pain medications.Because the pancreas lies deep in the abdomen near several nerves, pain from a growing tumour can radiate to the back.This symptom is particularly easy to ignore because it can be mistaken for muscle strain, poor posture, or ageing.If persistent back pain occurs along with weight loss, digestive changes, or jaundice, it deserves medical attention.This is one of the signs that many people hesitate to talk about. The pancreas helps break down fats. When it does not produce enough digestive enzymes, fat remains undigested and passes into the stool.As a result, stools may appear pale, greasy, oily, or may float and become difficult to flush. Many people live with these symptoms for months, assuming they are caused by something they ate.Changes in bowel habits can happen for many reasons, but persistent greasy stools should not be ignored, especially when accompanied by weight loss.Losing weight without trying is never something to celebrate.According to the US National Library of Medicine, unintended weight loss is a common feature of several cancers, including pancreatic cancer, and often reflects changes in metabolism and reduced nutritional absorption.A few kilograms lost without dieting may not always be alarming. But a steady and unexplained decline in weight deserves investigation.This may be one of the most overlooked warning signs.The pancreas is responsible for producing insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. A tumour can interfere with this process and lead to diabetes before any other symptoms appear.​Research supported by the US National Cancer Institute has shown that new-onset diabetes in older adults can sometimes be an early clue to pancreatic cancer, although most people with diabetes do not have pancreatic cancer.A diagnosis of diabetes after age 50, particularly in someone with no obvious risk factors and accompanied by weight loss, should prompt a thoughtful conversation with a doctor.The biggest mistake is assuming that these symptoms are simply part of ageing or stress.Most people who develop one of these symptoms will not have pancreatic cancer. However, persistent, unexplained changes in the body should never be ignored.Doctors usually begin with a detailed medical history and physical examination. Depending on the symptoms, blood tests, imaging scans, or specialised investigations may be recommended.This article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Having one or more of these symptoms does not mean a person has pancreatic cancer. If any of these signs persist or cause concern, consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation.