Introduction
Alex Trebek, the beloved host of the long-running game show Jeopardy!, recently announced that he has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. While this news has been devastating to many, it has also served as a reminder of the importance of being aware of the signs and symptoms of this deadly disease. In this article, we will discuss some of the signs and symptoms that may indicate that you have pancreatic cancer, like Alex Trebek. We will also provide some tips on how to reduce your risk of developing this type of cancer. By understanding the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer, you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Signs You Have “Deadly Cancer” Like Alex Trebek
Alex Trebek, the beloved host of Jeopardy!, recently announced that he has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. While this type of cancer is often deadly, there are some signs that can indicate that you may have it as well.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is one of the most common signs of pancreatic cancer. If you have lost a significant amount of weight without making any changes to your diet or exercise routine, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to speak to your doctor if you have experienced any unexplained weight loss.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is another common symptom of pancreatic cancer. If you are experiencing pain in your abdomen that is not related to any other medical condition, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any abdominal pain.
Jaundice
Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes that can be caused by pancreatic cancer. If you notice that your skin or eyes have taken on a yellowish hue, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any jaundice.
Fatigue
Fatigue is another common symptom of pancreatic cancer. If you are feeling unusually tired or exhausted, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any fatigue.
Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is another common symptom of pancreatic cancer. If you are not feeling hungry or have lost your appetite, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any loss of appetite.
Dark Urine
Dark urine is another common symptom of pancreatic cancer. If you notice that your urine has taken on a darker color, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any dark urine.
Itchiness
Itchiness is another common symptom of pancreatic cancer. If you are experiencing any itching or tingling sensations, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is important to speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any itchiness.
Take Action
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is important to speak to your doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is key when it comes to treating pancreatic cancer, so it is important to take action if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms.
Pancreatic cancer accounts for 3% of all cancers in the U.S. and approximately 7% of all cancer deaths. Many patients don’t experience symptoms of pancreatic cancer until it’s advanced, hence it being known as the “silent killer.” Beloved former Jeopardy host Alex Trebek was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in March 2019 and passed away on November 8, 2020. “I’m not afraid of dying,” Trebek said in his book The Answer Is. “One thing they’re not going to say at my funeral as part of the eulogy is, ‘He was taken from us too soon.’ I’m about to turn 80. I’ve lived a good, full life, and I’m nearing the end of it. I know that.” Here are five signs of pancreatic cancer you should never ignore, according to experts. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Sudden diabetes can be a warning sign of pancreatic cancer, experts warn. “One of the symptoms I should bring up because it should prompt people if they develop diabetes suddenly in an older age, you should look at their pancreas because that can be one of the hallmarks,” says Matthew Walsh, MD.
While early-stage pancreatic cancer can be hard to spot, there are certain symptoms to look out for, doctors say. “If you notice unintentional weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin) and stomach pain, we recommend that you see your primary care physician,” says surgical oncologist Jin He, M.D., Ph.D.
“Almost 7 out of 10 people (70%) with pancreatic cancer go to their doctors because they have pain,” explains Cancer Research UK. “Pain is more common in cancers of the body and tail of the pancreas. People describe it as a dull pain that feels as if it is boring into you. It can begin in the stomach area and spread around to the back. The pain is worse when you lie down and is better if you sit forward. It can be worse after meals.”
“So the only known risk factor is tobacco smoking,” says Dr. Walsh. “And obviously, for a lot of reasons, people shouldn’t be doing that. There’s probably some genetic component, there’s some familiar forms, but we don’t have that figured out very well and there isn’t a genetic test you can do to look for it. As you mentioned, famous people, if you look at Jimmy Carter and his family, a lot of people have had pancreatic cancer except him, interestingly. So there are increased risk with things like chronic pancreatitis, but the only real risk factor is smoking”
“Unfortunately, most pancreatic cancer cannot be prevented, but you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, stopping smoking and limiting your alcohol intake,” says Dr. He. “Other risk factors include chronic pancreatitis and family history. Occasionally, precancerous lesions can be identified and, if removed early, can prevent pancreatic cancer from developing… Yes, it is possible to have a full recovery from pancreatic cancer.”
Ferozan Mast