Pancreatic Cancer Is Often Diagnosed at a Late Stage: Know the Signs and Symptoms 

Pancreatic cancer is a serious and often deadly disease that is often not diagnosed until it has reached an advanced stage. This is because the early signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often subtle and can be mistaken for other conditions. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer include abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, and changes in stool color. Other symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, and blood clots. It's important to be aware of these signs and symptoms and to seek medical attention if you experience any of them. Additionally, certain risk factors such as smoking, family history, and certain medical conditions can increase your risk of developing pancreatic cancer, so it's important to discuss your risk with your doctor. 

Genetic Screening 

Genetic screening is a medical test that looks for specific changes or mutations in a person's DNA. The test can be used to identify a person's risk of developing certain genetic disorders or inherited diseases, such as cancer, cystic fibrosis, and sickle cell anemia. Genetic screening can be done prenatally, before birth, or it can be done in adults to identify the risk of certain conditions. Genetic screening is usually done on blood or saliva samples, and results are usually available within a few weeks. Genetic screening can help individuals and families make informed decisions about their health and can guide the development of preventative and treatment plans. 

Jaundice 

Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes caused by a build-up of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is formed when red blood cells break down. Normally, bilirubin is processed by the liver and then excreted in the bile, which gives feces their characteristic brown color. However, if bilirubin levels become too high, it can build up in the bloodstream, causing jaundice. 

Jaundice can be caused by a variety of conditions, including liver disease, bile duct obstruction, and certain types of cancer, such as pancreatic cancer. Other causes of jaundice can be Hemolytic anemia, Gilbert's Syndrome, Viral hepatitis. It's important to see a doctor if you notice yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, as jaundice can be a sign of a serious underlying condition. 

Jaundice can be diagnosed by blood test, imaging, and liver function test. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, if it's due to liver disease, then it can be treated by addressing the underlying issue, but if it's due to cancer, then it will require further examination and treatment.