The overlooked signs of ‘the most deadly’ and hard-to-spot cancer – from burping to bra clues

SPOTTING cancer in the early stages can save lives.

But not all cancers are easy to spot – some have vague symptoms or might not cause any symptoms at all.

One of the most misdiagnosed of all the common cancers, due to the nature of its symptoms is pancreatic cancer.

More than 43 per cent of patients are diagnosed as an emergency in A&E after having visited their GPs several times beforehand, according to Pancreatic Cancer Action.

Dr Santhi Swaroop Vege, director of the pancreatic diseases group at Mayo Clinic, describes pancreatic cancer as “the most lethal cancer in the human body”.

The only current cure is surgery.

But by the time a patient is suffering from the type of pain that warrants a trip to A&E, surgery is likely no longer an option – as the cancer has most likely spread to other parts of the body.

According to current data, the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is around 7 per cent, meaning that only about 7 out of 100 people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer will be alive five years after diagnosis.

Pancreatic cancer is known for its difficulty in early diagnosis, but the Pancreatic Cancer Action is stressing that awareness of subtle changes in energy levels, pain, and physical appearance can make all the difference.

Ade Williams MBE, Pharmacist ambassador for Pancreatic Cancer Action explains the often-overlooked symptoms of pancreatic cancer, especially when two or more are combined.

Persistent indigestion or heartburn

A burning sensation in the chest or stomach, bloating, frequent burping that does not ease with medication.

Abdominal pain or discomfort in upper back

Persistent or severe pain in the abdomen, particularly after eating. Often perceived as gallstones, IBS, or peptic ulcers.

“This is a very common symptom of pancreatic cancer, especially if it gets worse when you lie down. Many patients also complain of a dull ache in the back, exactly where a bra strap would sit,” said Ade.

New onset-diabetes

Pancreatic cancer can affect insulin production, leading to the sudden onset of diabetes, particularly in adults with no prior history or risk factors.

“Patients with existing diabetes may find their blood sugar levels more difficult to control,” said Ade.

Nausea or vomiting

Frequent nausea, vomiting soon after meals, or vomiting blood.

Unexplained weight loss

Losing weight without trying, often despite normal appetite.

Itching/jaundice

Itching, often intense, can occur due to bile duct obstruction, leading to a buildup of bile salts in the skin.

“This is often accompanied by jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes),” said Ade.

Change in bowel habits

Diarrhoea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency, especially if found shortly after eating.

“Many people interpret this as IBS, lactose intolerance, or dietary changes,” said Ade.

“It is often an early symptom for pancreatic cancer, notably, if the stools are pale, fatty and difficult to flush.

“Many of these symptoms are non-specific and can be caused by a variety of benign conditions like GERD, IBS, or stress.

“This overlap can make it difficult to distinguish between a harmless issue and pancreatic cancer, especially in the early stages when symptoms are mild or intermittent.

“Many people will go to their local pharmacy to grab a packet of indigestion or diarrhoea tablets as they do not think it is worth bothering their GP about.

“We would prefer they have a word with the pharmacist while they are in there.

“Pharmacists can refer patients should we think necessary.”

When to seek medical help

Ade also advises anyone suffering with any of the above symptoms for 10 days or more to speak to a healthcare professional.

“If the symptoms have not got better within 10 days, this could signal something more sinister,” he said.