Definition & Meaning of "pancreatic cancer"

What is "pancreatic cancer"?

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach. It is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because early symptoms may be subtle or absent. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer may include abdominal pain that spreads to the back, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and eyes, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and changes in stool color. Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include smoking, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, family history of pancreatic cancer, and certain genetic conditions. Treatment options for pancreatic cancer depend on factors such as the stage and location of the cancer, but may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is often difficult to treat, and the chance of recovery is often low, so early detection and intervention are critical for improving outcomes.