My father first complained of back discomfort, which he blamed on posture and age. But the pain persisted, spread to his upper abdomen, and became worse at night or after meals.
This type of dull, radiating pain—especially when it lingers or intensifies—is a common early sign of pancreatic cancer. Unfortunately, it is often mistaken for minor digestive or muscular issues.
2. Rapid, Unexplained Weight Loss
Within three weeks, my father lost more than five kilos without trying. His appetite disappeared, and fatigue set in. We attributed it to stress—but it was the cancer disrupting his pancreas’ role in digestion.
Sudden weight loss without clear cause is a red flag and should always prompt medical evaluation.
Other Warning Signs to Watch For
While pain and weight loss are the most telling, other symptoms may also appear:
Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), often from blocked bile ducts
Chronic fatigue that persists despite rest
Light-colored stools or dark urine, linked to bile flow issues
Nausea, bloating, indigestion, especially after meals
New-onset diabetes after age 50, with no clear risk factors
Individually, these may seem minor. Together, they should not be ignored.
Who Is Most at Risk?
