Early Warning Signs of Pancreatic Cancer in Hong Kong
Helping you understand “what these changes might mean” — and a gentle reminder not to worry excessively
Pancreatic cancer is one of the relatively high-incidence and poorer-prognosis cancers in Hong Kong, often associated with smoking, long-term alcohol consumption, high-fat diets, diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, or family history.
Early symptoms of pancreatic cancer are extremely subtle and frequently mistaken for stomach pain, indigestion, or “stomach gas”, causing many patients to delay seeking medical care.
However, early detection of pancreatic cancer is crucial for treatment success — prompt identification and examination can significantly increase surgical opportunities and survival rates.
The following outlines common early warning signs of pancreatic cancer, aimed at helping you distinguish “normal” from “abnormal”. Please remember: these symptoms do not necessarily indicate pancreatic cancer — most have benign causes. Do not panic excessively; seek medical confirmation for peace of mind.
Characteristics of early symptoms of pancreatic cancer
Early symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often nonspecific and primarily involve the digestive system, commonly overlooked or misdiagnosed as gastritis, gallbladder issues, or gastroenteritis.
These changes usually develop gradually; if you are over 50, have a history of diabetes, or family history, heightened vigilance is warranted.
Common early warning signs include:
- Upper or mid-abdominal dull pain or discomfort: worsens after meals or persists as a dull ache, often mistaken for stomach pain or gas; pain may radiate to the back
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite: rapid weight drop despite normal eating, accompanied by marked fatigue and weakness
- Jaundice or itchy skin: gradual yellowing of eyes and skin, dark tea-coloured urine, pale or grey stools — often misattributed to hepatitis or gallstones
- New-onset diabetes or sudden loss of blood sugar control: diabetes appearing suddenly in someone without prior history, or previously well-controlled diabetes suddenly worsening
- Intolerance to fatty foods or diarrhoea: abdominal bloating, diarrhoea, or fatty stools (floating, oily stools) after eating greasy foods
- New back pain or low back pain: particularly worsening at night or when lying down, often mistaken for lumbar spine issues
These symptoms are frequently dismissed as “ageing” or “stomach problems”, but if they persist for more than 2–4 weeks — especially when weight loss and jaundice occur together — pancreatic cancer should be considered more seriously.
These symptoms do not necessarily indicate pancreatic cancer
While the above warning signs can be early indicators of pancreatic cancer, the vast majority of cases are caused by benign conditions such as gastric ulcers, gallstones, chronic pancreatitis, or simple indigestion.
Hong Kong’s healthcare system is advanced; imaging examinations (such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI) and tumour marker tests can quickly rule out concerns.
Do not over-panic — first consult a family doctor or gastroenterologist/hepatobiliary-pancreatic specialist for evaluation; most cases can be resolved promptly, bringing peace of mind.
Want to detect risks even earlier
RGCC Onco-D-clare® is an ideal screening tool
If you belong to high-risk groups (e.g., long-term smoking and drinking, diabetes, chronic pancreatitis history, or family history), these symptoms warrant extra caution.
RGCC Onco-D-clare® (Ultra-Early Circulating Tumour Cell Screening) is currently one of the most advanced blood-based tools, especially suitable for proactive monitoring in high-risk individuals.
Only one tube of blood is needed to detect extremely low levels of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) in the bloodstream, with key advantages:
- Earlier detection of potential changes than traditional tumour markers (can detect fewer than 10 CTCs)
- No radiation, no invasiveness — ideal for regular proactive screening
- Provides early warning signals, allowing high-risk individuals to intervene with lifestyle adjustments and prevention before a solid tumour forms
Summary
Early symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often subtle and easily overlooked, but early detection and examination can greatly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.
These symptoms do not necessarily indicate pancreatic cancer — do not over-worry; seek medical confirmation for peace of mind.
By understanding these warning signs and using RGCC Onco-D-clare® for proactive screening, you can take greater control of your health.
If you are concerned about unexplained upper abdominal pain, weight loss, or jaundice,
or have a high-risk background for pancreatic cancer and wish to monitor proactively,
please feel welcome to contact us at any time.
Our medical team will review your condition and family history, and your specialist physician will assess the most suitable screening options for you, including RGCC Onco-D-clare® testing, helping you safeguard your health in the most reassuring way.
You deserve every day to feel steadier and healthier than the last.
Disclaimer：
The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor should it replace professional medical advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with a qualified healthcare provider or integrative oncology specialist before making any changes to their diet, treatment plan, or lifestyle based on the content herein. Therapies and tests mentioned, including immune or integrative treatments, should always be…
All product names, test references, and therapy mentions are for informational context only and do not constitute endorsement. Results and experiences may vary among individuals.