November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and World Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day is on 17th November. Around 8,800 people in the UK are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year.
In this blog, our editor Sadie will take you through some key information about pancreatic cancer, including the types, risk factors and symptoms. She’ll also let you know where you can get more information and support.
What is the pancreas?
The pancreas is part of the digestive system. It is in the upper part of the tummy (abdomen), just behind the stomach and in front of the spine. It makes:
The position of the pancreas
Types of pancreatic cancer
Cancer can occur in any part of the pancreas, but around 6 or 7 in every 10 pancreatic cancers (60 to 70%) start in the head of the pancreas.
There are several different types of pancreatic cancer.
More than 9 in 10 pancreatic cancers (95%) are ductal adenocarcinomas. This type starts from cells in the lining of the pancreatic ducts.
Cancer may develop at the ampulla of Vater, where the bile and pancreatic ducts join up and enter the small bowel (duodenum). This is called ampullary cancer.
Other, less common, types of pancreatic cancer include:
What are the risk factors for pancreatic cancer?
Doctors don’t know what causes pancreatic cancer, but there are some factors that may increase your risk of developing it:
What are the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer?
The most common symptoms of pancreatic cancer are:
But there may not be any symptoms for a long time. Some people may have only one symptom.
Other symptoms of pancreatic cancer include:
Most pain in the tummy is not caused by pancreatic cancer, but it’s important to see your doctor if you have any symptoms that you are worried about.
Where can I get further information and support?
You can read more about pancreatic cancer in our booklet, Understanding cancer of the pancreas. We also have information about pancreatic cancer on our website.
You can call our cancer support specialists on 0808 808 00 00, or you can visit our online community to talk to people affected by pancreatic cancer.
Other organisations that can give you more information and support include:
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The Macmillan team is here to help. Our cancer support specialists can answer your questions, offer support, or simply listen if you need a chat. Call us free on 0808 808 00 00.
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