Pancreatic tumours have a reputation for being silent but deadly, often growing unnoticed until they reach an advanced stage. That’s why recognising the early, subtle signs is so critical.
Pancreatic cancer is the 7th leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, yet many people miss its early symptoms because they’re vague, confusing, or easy to dismiss. But catching it early can make all the difference.
Why Pancreatic Tumours Are So Dangerous
The pancreas is tucked deep within the abdomen, behind the stomach. Because of its location, tumours don’t usually cause visible lumps or dramatic symptoms in the early stages.
There are two main types of pancreatic tumours:
- Exocrine tumours, like pancreatic adenocarcinoma (the most common)
- Neuroendocrine tumours, which are rarer but can sometimes produce hormones
Both can disrupt digestion, hormone balance, and eventually affect other organs.
The challenge? Early symptoms often mimic common digestive issues, which is why too many people delay getting checked.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Here are some of the most overlooked signs of a possible pancreatic tumour:
- Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying, especially if it’s rapid, can be a red flag. Pancreatic tumours can interfere with digestion, leading to poor nutrient absorption.
- Upper Abdominal Pain That Radiates to the Back
This classic symptom is often dismissed as acid reflux, ulcers, or muscle strain. But persistent, dull pain that wraps around to the back deserves further evaluation.
- New-Onset Diabetes
If you suddenly develop type 2 diabetes without the usual risk factors (like weight gain or poor diet), your pancreas may not be functioning properly due to a tumour.
- Yellowing Skin or Eyes (Jaundice)
A tumour pressing on the bile duct can block bile flow, leading to jaundice. You might also notice dark urine, pale stools, or itchy skin.
- Persistent Nausea or Digestive Discomfort
Frequent bloating, loss of appetite, or nausea after eating, especially if new or worsening, could signal pancreatic disruption.
Other Subtle Signs to Watch For
- Greasy or floating stools (steatorrhea)
- Sudden fatigue or weakness
- Blood clots or pancreatitis without a clear cause
- Family history of pancreatic or related cancers
If any of these symptoms linger more than a few weeks, don’t brush them off, especially if you’re over 50, smoke, or have a history of pancreatitis.
What You Can Do Right Now
| Action | Why It Helps |
| Track symptoms | Write down when they started and how often they occur |
| Know your family history | Genetic links play a role in many pancreatic cancers |
| Avoid self-diagnosing | Early symptoms mimic IBS, reflux, or gallstones |
| Get imaging if concerned | CT, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound can detect tumours early |
When to See a Specialist
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, especially in combination, it’s time to consult a gastroenterologist like Dr Fernandes Mark Lee.
Dr Lee is highly experienced in detecting and diagnosing pancreatic conditions early. He may recommend:
- Blood tests (including tumour markers like CA 19-9)
- Imaging scans
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for detailed internal views
- Biopsy if anything suspicious is found
The goal? Catch it before it becomes advanced, and intervene early.
Conclusion
Pancreatic tumours don’t usually shout, they whisper. But the body does send clues. Paying attention to those early, subtle signs can help detect tumours when they’re still treatable.
If something feels “off” and symptoms don’t go away, trust your instincts and reach out to a gastroenterologist like Dr Fernandes Mark Lee. One appointment could make all the difference.
