Pancreas

Pancreatic cancer

Around 10,000 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the UK each year, people aged 75 and over are most at risk of developing pancreatic cancer. There are three main types of pancreatic cancer:

• Exocrine – the most common of all pancreatic cancers, they start in cells that produce pancreatic digestive juices
• Endocrine – endocrine tumours start in the endocrine pancreas and are uncommon
• Other (rare cancers) - pancreatoblastoma, sarcomas of the pancreas and lymphoma are rare cancers to develop in the pancreas

Certain risk factors can cause pancreatic cancers. These include lifestyle habits such as smoking, being overweight, drinking large amounts of alcohol, and a diet that is high in processed meats. Risk factors that can’t necessarily be controlled are family history, age and medical conditions.

Types of pancreas cancer

Exocrine cancer
Start in the exocrine cells, where enzymes that help to digest food are made. Ninety-six out of a hundred (96%) pancreatic cancers are exocrine tumours. The most common type of pancreatic cancer, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), is an exocrine tumour. 

Endocrine cancer
Endocrine tumours start in the endocrine pancreas and are uncommon. The endocrine pancreas is where insulin and other hormones are made and released directly into the bloodstream. They are also referred to as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (PNETS) or islet cell tumours. Most of these tumours are non-cancerous (benign).

Other (rare cancers)
Pancreatoblastoma, sarcoma and lymphoma are all rare forms of cancer that occur in the pancreas. These types of cancer cells will be diagnosed and treated differently. You can read more about sarcoma and lymphoma by using our treatment finder. 

Symptoms

Symptoms caused by pancreatic cancer will vary depending on its type and where in the pancreas it has occurred. Some people may have symptoms, whereas others may not experience any. Early diagnosis will make treating pancreatic cancer easier, so if you have any of the following symptoms, it is important to see your GP.

Here are some common symptoms that may be experienced:

• A change in bowel habits
• Being newly diagnosed with diabetes
• Developing a blood clot in the leg (deep vein thrombosis or DVT) or the lungs (pulmonary embolus)
• Feeling bloated after eating
• Feeling sick or nauseous
• Feeling very tired
• Indigestion
• Jaundice
• Pain or discomfort
• Reduced appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
  

Further information & support

Being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and deciding on the best treatment can be daunting, for full details on pancreatic cancer treatment options or to discuss a diagnosis, please contact our enquiries team. Our enquiries team will endeavour to help you assess your treatment options and advise which consultants could be best placed on planning your treatment pathway.

Macmillan Cancer Support offers a wide range of information and support, as well as help with your practical, emotional, and financial needs. All telephone helplines are free and confidential, and interpreting services are also available.

Freephone: 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 8.00pm) Website: www.macmillan.org.uk