How Fast Can Pancreatic Cancer Progress?
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal cancers to diagnose. This is because it’s often diagnosed at a late stage and has a very low survival rate.
The prognosis of pancreatic cancer can vary greatly, depending on the type of pancreatic cancer you have, your age and health history, and if it has spread to other organs or tissues in your body.
It’s important to understand how quickly pancreatic cancer progresses so that you can make an informed decision about how best to treat this disease before it’s too late.
Early signs of pancreatic cancer
The early signs of pancreatic cancer can be subtle and non-specific, which can make it difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Some common early symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue and weakness
- Dark urine and light-coloured stools
Most people with pancreatic cancer have no symptoms in the early stages. At this point, it’s usually discovered during an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or CT scan of the abdomen, which is used to look for hidden tumours that can’t be seen on regular X-rays.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other health conditions, so it’s important to see a doctor if you’re experiencing any concerning symptoms.
Pancreatic cancer progression
The progression rate of pancreatic cancer can vary depending on several factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and the effectiveness of treatments.
In general, pancreatic cancer can be an aggressive form of cancer and can progress rapidly, sometimes within just a few months from the time of diagnosis. However, in some cases, it may develop more slowly over a period of several years. In advanced stages, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body, making it more difficult to treat.
It is important to note that every patient’s experience with pancreatic cancer is unique, and the speed of progression can vary greatly from person to person. Early detection and prompt treatment are important for improving the prognosis and slowing the progression of the disease.
Contact us
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of pancreatic cancer, or have been recently diagnosed with the condition, it’s important to seek expert advice from a specialist in treating this type of cancer.
Our team at Birmingham HPB have a wealth of experience in diagnosing and treating pancreatic cancer, and can provide you with the best possible care and support.
Don’t wait to seek help – contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey to recovery.