Know the warning signs: unexplained weight loss, jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, upper abdominal or back pain, loss of appetite, nausea, new-onset diabetes, and worsening diabetes
Seek prompt medical evaluation if symptoms persist or worsen
Review personal risk factors: smoking, chronic pancreatitis, obesity, older age, family history, inherited cancer syndromes, and certain genetic mutations
Ask about genetic counseling and genetic testing if there is a strong family history
Get a physical exam and blood tests, including liver function tests and bilirubin
Use abdominal imaging when symptoms or risk factors are present
Start with a contrast-enhanced CT scan of the pancreas
Use MRI or MRCP if CT is inconclusive or detailed duct imaging is needed
Use endoscopic ultrasound for small tumors or when imaging is unclear
Perform biopsy with fine-needle aspiration or core biopsy when tissue confirmation is needed
Check tumor markers such as CA 19-9 as an adjunct, not as a screening test
Evaluate for bile duct or pancreatic duct obstruction
Refer to a gastroenterologist or pancreatic cancer specialist early
Consider surveillance programs for high-risk individuals
Use regular MRI and/or endoscopic ultrasound in high-risk surveillance
Monitor for new-onset diabetes in older adults with other concerning symptoms
Reassess promptly if initial tests are negative but symptoms continue
Avoid relying on symptoms alone without imaging in high-risk cases