The pancreas releases an enzyme that aids digestion and the creation of hormones in the body that help manage blood sugar levels. Due to this reason and many others, the pancreas is one of the most important parts of the body. Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that is caused due to the growth of abnormal tissue in the pancreas. Unfortunately, cancer of the pancreas is rarely detected in the early stages. So, here are some signs and symptoms that should help you detect pancreatic cancer early on.

1. Jaundice
One of the most prominent signs of pancreatic cancer is jaundice. Most individuals get jaundice as an early symptom of pancreatic cancer. Jaundice is caused due to the buildup of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is produced in the liver and passed through the body with the help of the common bile duct. When cancer develops in the head of the pancreas, it can put pressure on the common bile duct, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the body. Other signs of jaundice include dark urine, light-colored stools, and itchy skin.

2. Belly and back pain
Another early warning sign of pancreatic cancer is pain in the abdomen or back. Cancers that begin in the body or the tail of the pancreas usually trigger such pain by pressing against other organs of the body. They can also press against the nerves around the pancreas, leading the pain to worsen.

3. Weight loss and poor appetite
Another early tell-tale sign of pancreatic cancer is loss of appetite. As the cells start to multiply in the pancreas, the body tends to grow weak due to hormonal fluctuations in the body. This can make one lose their appetite, thereby leading to weight loss.

4. Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are two more early signs of pancreatic cancer. When the tumor develops in the pancreas, it can press against the end of the stomach, making it difficult for food to get through. Due to this pressure, individuals can experience vomiting and nausea. It can also lead to pain after eating.

5. Diabetes
Diabetes has been closely linked to pancreatic cancer by several studies. One of the main reasons behind this is the change in blood sugar levels the cancer causes. Diabetes can be doubly hard to manage if someone who has had it is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer later. However, at times, pancreatic cancer can lead to smaller fluctuations in blood sugar levels that do not always lead to diabetes.