Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that mostly develops in the cells lining the ducts of the pancreas. An important gland behind the lower part of the stomach, the pancreas creates blood-sugar-controlling hormones and digestion-aiding enzymes. A tumour may develop when cells in the pancreas undergo mutations and multiply uncontrollably, eventually forming pancreatic cancer. Imaging scans don't detect pancreatic tumours in the early stages, which is why most individuals affected with pancreatic cancer get diagnosed when cancer has advanced. Moreover, pancreatic cancer is resistant to several commonly prescribed drugs, rendering treatment more difficult.
Let’s look at pancreatic cancer symptoms in females.
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer in women
Most symptoms of pancreatic cancer in women are similar to those in men. However, some symptoms are more pronounced in women and affect them with more intensity. Here are some symptoms of pancreatic cancer in women:
- A general and prolonged feeling of being unwell
- Unspecified abdominal pain
- Greyish, light-coloured, or greasy stool
- Jaundice
- Unexplained weight loss
- Itchy skin
- Constant dull pain in the lower spine and back muscles
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea, or a feeling of fullness
- Abdominal distension
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin
- New-onset diabetes
- Blood clots
- Fatigue
- Dark coloured urine
Pancreatic cancer is a life-threatening disease with a low survival rate. The standard five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is 10%. Hence, only 10 out of every 100 people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer will live for at least five years. Having comprehensive health insurance can provide financial support for necessary medical treatments, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.
The risk factors that can be associated with pancreatic cancer include
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Chronic inflammation of the pancreas
- Family history
- Obesity
- Older age, especially after 65 years
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
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