How is pancreatic cancer treated?

Scans, biopsy findings, blood tests, and an assessment of fitness help the team decide whether the tumour can be removed. A tumour in the head of the pancreas may be treated with a Whipple procedure, which removes the tumour and nearby structures before the digestive tract is reconstructed. Other operations may be considered for tumours in different parts of the pancreas.

Chemotherapy may be given before surgery to shrink or control disease, after surgery to reduce the chance of regrowth, or when surgery is not suitable. Radiotherapy can target a defined area. Palliative care can relieve pain, nausea, jaundice-related discomfort, appetite problems, and emotional strain at any stage.

Ask for a specialist review and bring scan reports, medication details, and information about weight or appetite changes. Discuss whether a tissue diagnosis and staging are needed, and whether a biliary drain or other procedure could relieve blockage-related jaundice.

During treatment, tell the team about vomiting, poor intake, new pain, fever, or reduced urine. Nutrition support, enzyme replacement, diabetes care, and pain control may be part of the plan alongside cancer-directed treatment.

Contact the treatment team urgently for fever, confusion, worsening jaundice, repeated vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or inability to drink. Emergency help is needed for collapse, severe breathing difficulty, or uncontrolled bleeding. These symptoms need assessment because infection, dehydration, or a blocked bile duct can require prompt treatment.

Ask: Can the tumour be removed? What does staging show? Would treatment start with chemotherapy or surgery? Could radiotherapy help? How will pain, digestion, blood sugar, jaundice, and nutrition be managed? Can palliative care support me now?