Cancer of the pancreas is an unchecked growth of abnormal cells in the pancreas. The pancreas, a large, long organ located behind the stomach, makes both insulin and enzymes needed for digestion. In the U.S., pancreatic cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men and the fifth most common in women. This cancer usually cannot be detected early, unlike other cancers such as breast and colon cancer. Pancreatic cancer may be related to exposure to cancer- causing agents called carcinogens.
Pancreatic cancer can be difficult to diagnose.
The doctor will take a history of recent symptoms, especially those relating to pain, appetite, diet, and weight change. A physical exam with special attention to the abdomen will be performed. Sometimes the pancreatic cancer can be felt as a hard, firm lump or mass in the abdomen. Special x-ray studies are most helpful to determine where the cancer is. In the case of pancreatic cancer, if the pancreas stops making insulin, the blood tests may show a high blood sugar level as a result.