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Pancreatic cancer is a particularly aggressive form of cancer that presents unique challenges for both patients and healthcare providers. It is often detected late due to subtle or vague early symptoms, making it one of the most difficult cancers to diagnose in its early stages. Despite being relatively uncommon, according to Cancer Council Australia affecting approximately 4,641 Australians in 2024, pancreatic cancer has a disproportionately high mortality rate, with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners ranking it as the fourth leading cause of cancer death in Australia.
Raising awareness about this disease is crucial, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life. According to Pankind - Australian Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer in Australia has improved to 13% for diagnoses made between 2015-2019, demonstrating the importance of continued research and awareness efforts.
At HIF, we understand that a cancer diagnosis can be a stressful time for you and your loved ones. That's why we offer tailored programs to support you through every stage of your cancer treatment. Our comprehensive approach addresses not only the physical aspects through hospital cover, but also the emotional challenges through mental health services and practical support through our health and wellbeing programs. We're committed to supporting members across the entire cancer journey, recognising that cancer care extends far beyond medical treatment to encompass the whole person and their support network.
The pancreas is a vital organ located behind the stomach that serves two primary functions in the body. As part of the digestive system, it produces enzymes that help break down food, while also functioning as an endocrine organ by producing hormones like insulin that regulate blood sugar levels. When cancer develops in the pancreas, it disrupts these essential functions and can have far-reaching effects on the body's ability to digest food and maintain stable blood glucose levels.
There are several types of pancreatic cancer, with research from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners indicating that 95% of cases being pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which develops in the cells that line the ducts of the pancreas. Other less common types include neuroendocrine tumours, which arise from the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas. The disease typically develops gradually over many years, often beginning with genetic mutations that cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably.
One of the most challenging aspects of pancreatic cancer is why it often goes undetected until later stages. The pancreas is located deep within the abdomen, surrounded by other organs, making it difficult to feel any abnormalities during routine physical examinations. Additionally, there are currently no effective screening tests for pancreatic cancer in the general population, unlike other cancers such as breast or colorectal cancer, where screening protocols like mammograms or colonoscopies are widely used. Research from Pancreatic Cancer Action shows that the lack of specific early symptoms, combined with the pancreas’s hidden location and absence of reliable screening tools, contributes to the late diagnosis in most cases.
According to Cancer Australia, the age-standardised incidence rate is 17 cases per 100,000 persons, with rates increasing with age. The average age at diagnosis is 72 years old, though the disease can occur at any age. Understanding these statistics helps put the disease in perspective and emphasises why awareness is so important, particularly for those in higher-risk age groups.
The early signs of pancreatic cancer can be difficult to pinpoint. They’re often vague and easily mistaken for more common, less serious conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis. That’s why it’s essential to understand what to watch for and when to seek medical attention.
According to the American Cancer Society, pancreatic cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages. However, when they do appear, they may include:
- Persistent pain in the upper abdomen, which may radiate to the back. This pain is often described as deep and gnawing, sometimes worsening when lying down and easing when leaning forward.
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in bowel habits
- New-onset diabetes or a sudden worsening of existing diabetes
- Persistent indigestion, nausea, and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice, yellowing of the skin and eyes, particularly if the cancer is located in the head of the pancreas. This occurs when the tumour blocks the bile duct, causing a buildup of bilirubin in the body.
- Dark urine, pale stools, and itching, often accompanying jaundice
These symptoms are especially concerning when they occur together and persist over time. While any one symptom could be linked to a less serious issue, a combination, especially lasting several weeks, warrants immediate medical evaluation.
At HIF, we encourage all Australians to stay informed about their health and to listen to their bodies. If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or you have risk factors such as age or a family history of pancreatic cancer, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider. Early detection and timely medical support can make a real difference.
Because the early symptoms of pancreatic cancer can resemble less serious conditions, it's important not to ignore them, especially when they persist or appear together. While it may be tempting to monitor symptoms at home or search online for answers, delaying professional care can lead to missed opportunities for early diagnosis. This is crucial for improving outcomes.
You should speak with a healthcare professional if you experience any of the symptoms listed above for an extended period or if they worsen. One symptom that should never be ignored is jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), as this may indicate a blocked bile duct, often caused by a tumour in the pancreas, and should be assessed urgently.
If further investigation is needed, your doctor may recommend blood tests (including liver function and tumour markers such as CA 19-9), imaging scans such as CT or MRI, or more specialised procedures like endoscopic ultrasound or biopsy. According to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), early and accurate diagnosis is key to achieving the best possible outcomes in cancers like pancreatic cancer.
While online resources can be useful for general awareness, they’re no replacement for personalised medical advice. Speaking with a qualified healthcare provider ensures your symptoms are properly assessed and the right steps are taken, so you’re not left guessing. It’s always best to skip Dr Google (or Dr AI) for answers, we recommend reading our earlier article that outlines the risks of self-diagnosing through these platforms - and why real medical advice makes all the difference.
Recovering from pancreatic cancer is often challenging and requires a combination of medical treatment, nutrition support, and emotional care. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination, depending on the stage and individual health.
According to the Mayo Clinic, surgery often offers the best chance for long-term survival but comes with a demanding recovery. Chemotherapy and radiation help manage the disease and may be used before or after surgery. Nutritional support is essential, as pancreatic cancer can interfere with digestion and lead to weight loss or malnutrition. Fatigue, both physical and emotional, is also common during and after treatment.
Emotional wellbeing is a critical part of recovery. Many patients experience anxiety, fear, or depression, particularly due to the seriousness of the diagnosis, and may need support from professionals like psychologists, dietitians, or exercise physiologists. At HIF, we understand this is a challenge and are here to help through our Mental Health Programs.
Today, more patients are benefiting from remote and virtual care services that make access to expert support easier during treatment and recovery. HIF supports this model by partnering with providers that offer tailored, multidisciplinary cancer care to eligible members from home.
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat, but survival rates are improving. According to Cancer Australia, in Australia, the five-year survival rate increased to 13% for diagnoses between 2015 and 2019, up from just 5% in earlier decades.
This progress is due to better treatment, earlier detection, and targeted research. New therapies and improved surgical methods are also contributing to longer survival and better quality of life for many patients.
As highlighted throughout this blog, pancreatic cancer presents unique challenges, both physically and emotionally. At HIF, we understand how overwhelming a diagnosis can be, which is why we offer dedicated cancer support services tailored to your needs during every stage of treatment and recovery.
For members facing pancreatic cancer, our support goes beyond hospital cover. Depending on your level of cover, you may be eligible for:
In addition, we’ve partnered with Valion Health to offer the Cancer Support Complete Program, a 12-week virtual care program available at no extra cost to eligible eligible HIF members. It’s designed to improve quality of life by helping eligible HIF members access services such as support from a cancer nurse, dietitian, exercise physiologist, psychologist, and yoga therapist, all delivered remotely to suit your lifestyle and health needs.
Pancreatic cancer may be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. To learn more about how we can support you or a loved one, visit our Cancer Support Programs page.