The function and location of the pancreas can make pancreatic cancer difficult to detect, especially in the early stages of the disease. Also, symptoms of pancreatic cancer may vary depending on the type of affected cells. Exocrine pancreatic cancer (which occurs in cells responsible for the production of digestive enzymes) can reduce the body\’s ability to take up nutrients. Neuroendocrine pancreatic tumors can lead to overproduction of certain hormones and to a variety of other endocrine syndromes.
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer generally occur in advanced stages or when spread to other regions of the body. Some common symptoms include:
jaundice (yellowing of the skin and white areas of the eyes);
digestive problems including abnormal stools, nausea or vomiting;
upper abdominal pain that may extend to the back region;
