Mahkatop
Mahkatop — Pancreatic cancer, caused by abnormal cell growth in a vital organ of the human body, is increasingly capturing global medical attention. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International (WCRFI), pancreatic cancer ranks 12th as the most common cancer worldwide. In 2020, the American Cancer Society reported approximately 57,600 new cases and 47,050 deaths due to pancreatic cancer.
In Indonesia, data from GLOBOCAN 2018 estimates around 4,940 new cases and 4,812 deaths from pancreatic cancer. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often difficult to detect in its early stages but become more evident as the disease progresses.
Here are some symptoms of advanced stage pancreatic cancer to be aware of, as quoted from various sources:
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the eyes or skin.
- Dark urine and pale stools: Dark-colored urine and pale or gray stools.
- Upper abdominal and mid-back pain: Persistent pain in the upper abdomen and middle back.
- Unexplained fatigue: Feeling tired without a clear reason.
- Itching skin, nausea, and vomiting: Itchy skin, prolonged nausea, and vomiting.
- Loss of appetite and weight: Significant loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss.
- Blood clots and swelling in hands or feet: Increased risk of blood clot formation and swelling in the hands or feet.
Recognizing these symptoms is an important first step in detecting pancreatic cancer as early as possible. Although these symptoms often appear in advanced stages, awareness of these signs can aid in more precise and effective management efforts. (*)
