Pancreatic cancer disguises as gastric disease, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Early symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and belching are mistaken for gastritis or indigestion. However, there are distinctive signs. Abdominal pain is common with pancreatic cancer, usually in the upper or middle abdomen.
Rapid weight loss without intentional dieting is another red flag. A weight loss exceeding 10% should be a cause for concern.
Loss of appetite is also characteristic. Digestive tract abnormalities, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dark stool, may occur.
Pancreatic cancer and gastric disease have differences.
Gastric disease pain can be relieved with medication, while pancreatic cancer pain persists. Jaundice is present in 90% of pancreatic cancer patients but rare in gastric disease.
