People aged 60+ warned to watch out for little-known symptom of ‘fatal’ disease
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer in the UK, with around 10,500 new cases diagnosed each year
People born before 1966 are being urged to remain vigilant for a potentially “serious” symptom that could indicate a deadly disease. Experts warn that one subtle yet significant sign – frequently overlooked – could be a sign of pancreatic cancer, which is more prevalent in people aged 60 and above.
The NHS says identifying symptoms early could prove life-saving, yet the condition is notoriously difficult to detect. That’s because early warning signs are often vague, meaning numerous cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage.
Dr Asiya Maula, a private GP at The Health Suite, said pancreatic cancer can easily remain undetected in its early stages: “Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage because symptoms can be vague or non-specific, which is why understanding the lifestyle factors linked to risk is so important.
“Small, consistent habits over time can have a significant impact,” Dr Maula added, highlighting risk factors including smoking, alcohol consumption and diet. One of the less recognised symptoms is yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes, known as jaundice – one of the most obvious early warning signs.
According to the NHS, jaundice is often easier to identify in the eyes, particularly in people with darker skin. It develops when a substance called bilirubin accumulates in the body, which can be triggered by serious conditions including liver disease, gallstones, or pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic cancer is amongst the most lethal forms of cancer in the UK, with approximately 10,500 new cases diagnosed annually, according to Pancreatic Cancer UK. The charity states that over half of cases affect people aged 75 and above, highlighting the importance of vigilance among older adults.
Survival statistics remain sobering, with less than 10% of patients living five years or longer following diagnosis, according to Cancer Research UK. Delayed detection is a significant contributing factor, as symptoms including fatigue, weight loss and digestive complaints can be easily confused with less severe conditions.
The NHS advises watching for additional symptoms such as loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, persistent tiredness and elevated temperature. Digestive disturbances including nausea, diarrhoea, constipation and indigestion may also present, alongside pain in the upper abdomen or back.
Medical professionals emphasise that while these symptoms are widespread and frequently associated with other conditions, changes that seem abnormal should never be dismissed. Individuals are urged to seek medical attention if symptoms continue, deteriorate or feel unusual for them.
Urgent guidance is unambiguous: anyone experiencing jaundice, prolonged vomiting or diarrhoea should contact their GP or NHS 111 immediately. Prompt medical checks could exclude serious illness – or guarantee swifter treatment if required.
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