Pancreatic Cancer Cheat Sheet

In the United States, more than 21,000 women are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer annually.  Risk factors and warning signs may include:

Risk Factors:

  • I smoke cigarettes
  • I have diabetes
  • I am obese
  • I do not exercise regularly
  • I have a family history of pancreatic cancer
  • I have chronic pancreatitis which may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer
  • I have had heavy exposure at work to certain pesticides, dyes, and chemicals

Warning Signs:
Pancreatic cancer is sometimes called a "silent disease" because early pancreatic cancer often does not cause symptoms. But, as the cancer grows, symptoms may include:

  • Pain in the abdomen and back
  • Yellow skin and eyes, and dark urine from jaundice
  • Digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting and stool changes
  • Weight loss

These symptoms can often be similar to other diseases and conditions. However, if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor right away. There is currently no screening test for pancreatic cancer, but you should discuss which of the following diagnostic tools may be appropriate for you: Ultrasound, CT scan, ERCP, MRI, Biopsy.

Contact The National Women’s Health Information Center for information on health insurance coverage or free clinics. Visit www.womenshealth.gov or call 1-800-994-9662.

Remember, early detection equals survival!

This information was provided by the American Cancer Society.

This information was reviewed by the Cancer Schmancer Medical Advisory Board.

Last updated: August 2010

Comments

Submitted by Guest on October 19, 2009 - 18:12.

Some information you might be able to use:

A friend of mine recently died of pancreatic cancer. Years before she was diagnosed, her ob/gyn made note of the fact that she had brown splotches/pigmentation around her lips and that it could be a sign of pancreatic cancer. The doctor told her that she'd have to have a series of tests that may or may not show anything, so she elected not to have them done. When the disease was finally discovered, she was already in Stage 4, and died within a year.

Submitted by Guest on July 25, 2011 - 17:53.

After having sharp intermittent abdominal pain on the top left quadrant, constant back pain on the right upper part in between the shoulder and the waist, slightly swollen abdomen (no nausea and I was eating fine), and frequent urination (yellow), for more or less one month, I decided to go for a CT Scan, which came back negative, so... the doctor sent me home.

Although I did NOT have any of the risk factors at all, I knew something was not right. Since I could not get an appointment soon enough with another doctor, I "put myself" in the ER. I had to exaggerate a little bit, (screamed and cried), but I am glad I did. Different testings showed that most likely I had pancreatic cancer. A biopsy confirmed it, it was found on time -stage ONE!

I took control of MY life and listened to my body. I had surgery (a year and 5 months ago) and I am doing great! Pancreatic cancer is usually found way too late and it will kill you fast. If you do not feel good, most likely there is a reason for it. Don't wait too long to see if it "goes away". Pay attention to your body, and do not give up! I didn't!

Submitted by Guest on April 30, 2012 - 19:50.

what kind of other testing did you have done?