Pancreatic cancer awareness month is a global healthcare event for the awareness of Pancreatic cancer, which is observed for the entire month of November. The general awareness of Pancreatic cancer is necessary, since a Pancreatic cancer patient gets to know about the disease only at the advanced stages, It has been one of the most difficult cancers to treat. Early detection of Pancreatic cancer can significantly improve the treatment outcome.

Pancreatic cancer is the 12th most common cancer worldwide, found more common in men than women. It is considered a silent killer due to a largely asymptomatic course and late clinical presentation.
The purple ribbon represents Pancreatic cancer awareness, showcasing solidarity and support for patients and their families. Early detection can significantly improve a patient's prognosis. The theme for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month is "Shine a Light: Early Detection Saves Lives," emphasizing the need for early symptom recognition and action.

One of the biggest challenges in detecting Pancreatic cancer is that its symptoms can be vague and mistaken for other conditions. However, being aware of the warning signs can make a major difference in early diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

Common symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer include Pain in the upper or middle abdomen and back, Unintentional weight loss, Loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, Jaundice (Yellowing of the skin and eyes), Clay coloured stools, Fatigue, Itchy skin, Sudden onset of type 2 diabetes.

Understanding and managing this risk factors can play a key role in reducing the risk of Pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer risk factors: The risk of Pancreatic cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in individuals over 65 years of age, Smoking and Tobacco use is a significant risk factor, with smokers being two to three times more likely to develop the disease compared to non-smokers, Obesity, excessive Alcohol intake, exposure to chemicals, Pancreatitis (Hereditary and chronic) Mutations in genes, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes passed from biological parent to child.

Early diagnosis not only improves treatment options but also enhances the overall prognosis for patients. Diagnosing Pancreatic cancer requires a combination of medical imaging, blood tests, and biopsies. Common diagnostic methods include imaging tests like CT scan., MRI Scan, PET Scan, Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), Blood tests like Liver Function test, A tumour marker test called CA 19-9 may indicate the presence of Pancreatic cancer. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA): Another tumour marker that may be measured after a Pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Other tests like Liver Enzymes, Bilirubin are also done, if a Pancreatic tumour blocks the bile duct.

This Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month lets shine a light on Pancreatic Cancer by creating Awareness about Pancreatic Cancer, by commemorating the lives we have lost and by honouring survivors and supporting those battling the disease.