It’s always advised to stay vigilant for any concerning health symptoms that could suggest something is amiss.
With this in mind, the NHS has utilised its Instagram platform to highlight 10 common indicators of pancreatic cancer that individuals should be aware of.
Pancreatic cancer originates as a cell growth in the pancreas, located behind the lower part of the stomach. This organ produces enzymes aiding digestion and hormones managing blood sugar levels.
Cancer Research UK states that pancreatic cancer ranks as the 10th most prevalent cancer in the UK, making up 3% of all new cancer cases. But what symptoms should you be on the lookout for?
The initial symptom mentioned in the NHS post is yellowing skin, which they noted “may not always show on brown or black skin”. They also cautioned about high temperatures or feeling hot or shivery, and changes in bowel movements such as diarrhoea or constipation.
Experiencing pain at the top of your stomach and back is another warning sign, as is observing that the whites of your eyes have turned yellow.
A decrease in appetite or unexplained weight loss could also indicate pancreatic cancer, as could feelings of fatigue or lack of energy. The public health body also advises keeping an eye out for nausea or vomiting, and symptoms of indigestion.
The final two symptoms highlighted in the post were itchy skin and noticing that your urine is darker than usual. However, it was emphasised: “These symptoms do not mean you definitely have pancreatic cancer but it’s important to get them check by a GP.”
The NHS further clarified in its caption: “Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can be caused by lots of things, which can make it hard to diagnose.”
“It’s important to be checked by a GP if things don’t feel normal for you, or if any symptoms change or get worse.”