The Independent has recently published an article – ‘Five early signs of pancreatic cancer as man battles disease for a second time’ – about a man, Mr Charles Cazjowski, who, after battling pancreatic cancer for a second time, has decided to make it his life’s mission to raise awareness of the illness.
Pancreatic cancer can be known as a silent killer as signs and symptoms of the disease are often missed because they overlap with other less serious conditions such as indigestion or irritable bowel syndrome.
However, any persisting symptoms should always be explored with your GP. Early diagnosis of this condition is key. Pancreatic Cancer UK (PCUK) says that more than half of people with the disease die within three months of diagnosis. Obviously, this statistic is an extremely concerning one.
Mr Czajowski, who was unable to access timely treatment on the NHS, sought private treatment which was initially successful. However, after the cancer returned, his private oncologists are now attempting to use a series of drugs, some of which are unavailable on the NHS, to save his life. Whilst fighting the illness, Mr Czajowski is working to help patients to spot the disease early. To help with this mission, he has joined the scientific advisory board for PCUK.
Mindful of this, we have written this article to outline the main symptoms of the disease. These are as follows.
What are the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer?
The main symptoms of pancreatic cancer include:
- Jaundice
- Itchy skin
- Darker urine and paler stools than usual
- Abdominal pain that radiates to the back
- Loss of appetite or unintentional weight loss
- Tiredness or lack of energy
- High temperature, or feeling hot or shivery
- A new diagnosis of diabetes, or worsening diabetes that becomes difficult to control
Other symptoms that affect your digestion should also be considered:
- Feeling or being sick
- Diarrhoea or constipation, or other changes in your bowel movements
- Pain at the top of your abdomen which feels worse on lying down and better when leaning forward
- Indigestion and/or bloatedness
Please note this article is not intended to constitute medical advice and for any worrying symptoms especially where these are long-lasting, we strongly recommend seeking medical advice.
Various help is available for those who are concerned about pancreatic cancer including PCUK, the NHS, and other sources.
Commentary
Hopefully, this article is a helpful guide of the signs and symptoms to look out for yourself and for family members or friends. It is clear that pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed too late meaning terrible outcomes for patients, whereas early detection and treatment is lifesaving.
It is worrying that accessing treatment may only be able early enough in the private sector and clearly, more funding needs to be made available to increase awareness and offer treatment.
How can we help
Carolle White is a Senior Associate and Legal Executive in our Medical Negligence team, which has been ranked in tier one by the independently researched publication, The Legal 500.
If you require any advice or if you have any questions regarding the subjects discussed in this article, please get in touch with Carolle or another member of the team in Derby, Leicester, or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or via our online form.
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