“ Detecting Pancreatic Cancer Early Can Save Your Life”
Each year, over 495,000 people worldwide are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Often called the “silent killer,” this cancer is notoriously difficult to detect in its early stages. But timing is everything: early detection can dramatically improve survival rates. So how can you spot pancreatic cancer before it’s too late? Why Early Detection Matters Pancreatic cancer typically doesn’t cause symptoms until it’s advanced. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), more than 80% of cases are diagnosed at a late stage. However, when caught early, the 5-year survival rate jumps to over 40%, compared to under 10% for advanced cases. Most pancreatic cancers start in the head of the pancreas, near the bile duct, making jaundice one of the earliest visible symptoms. Recognizing these signs promptly is crucial. Key Early Warning Signs Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes Back or upper abdominal pain: Often radiating to the mid-back Unexplained weight loss Loss of appetite ...