Brits are being urged to recognise two early symptoms of pancreatic cancer, a disease with one of the lowest 10-year survival rates. Experts describe it as a 'silent killer' because symptoms often do not appear until later stages.
Researchers have identified jaundice (yellowing of the skin) and bleeding in the stomach or intestine as serious early signs. Lesser-known symptoms include increased thirst and dark yellow urine, according to a study published last year.
Dr Weiqi Liao, data scientist at the University of Oxford, said: 'When pancreatic cancer is diagnosed earlier, patients have a higher chance of survival. It is possible to diagnose patients when they visit their GP, but both patients and GPs need to be aware of the symptoms.'
Dr Pippa Corrie, consultant medical oncologist at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, added: 'Being aware of the early symptoms is crucial if we are to diagnose patients earlier and improve survival. This research could help GPs and their patients know more about the signs.'
According to the NHS, pancreatic cancer is more common in people over 75 and rare in those under 40. Reducing red and processed meat consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and limiting alcohol intake can lower the risk.
