About Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is when abnormal cells in the pancreas start to divide and grow in an uncontrolled way and forms a growth (tumour). The pancreas is a large gland that produces digestive juices and hormones.
Around 10,500 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the UK each year. It is the 10th most common cancer in the UK.
Pancreatic cancer is cancer that starts in the pancreas. The pancreas is a gland that produces digestive juices and hormones.
Common symptoms of pancreatic cancer include pain in the tummy or back, yellowing of the skin or whites of your eyes (jaundice), changed to your poo (stool) and weight loss. Find out about others symptoms.
Some lifestyle factors, inherited cancer syndromes and certain medical conditions can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Most people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after they become unwell and go to A&E. Others start by seeing their GP. Find out what to expect when you see a GP and tests you might have.
Stage means the size of the cancer and whether it has spread. Type means the type of cell it started from. Grade means how abnormal the cells look. Knowing this information helps doctors decide about treatment.
Your treatment depends on the position of the cancer in the pancreas, how big it is, the type of pancreatic cancer it is, whether it has spread, if they can remove it with surgery and your general health.
Get practical and emotional support to help you cope with a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, and life during and after treatment.
Find out about the latest UK research looking at pancreatic cancer, as well as how you can take part in clinical trials.
Survival depends on many factors including the stage and type of your cancer. These figures for pancreatic cancer survival can only be used as a general guide.
Last reviewed: 24 Jan 2023
Next review due: 24 Jan 2026
This section is written, reviewed and updated by Cancer Research UK’s Patient Information Web Team. Thanks to the expert medical professionals and people affected by cancer who have helped to review this information.
Dr Pippa Corrie (Consultant Oncologist)
Professor Brian Davidson (Consultant HPB and Liver Transplant Surgeon)
our lay reviewers
About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
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