Pancreatic cancer: 4 warning signs in your legs that you shouldn’t ignore |

Pancreatic cancer, often called the “silent killer,” progresses rapidly and is difficult to detect in its early stages. While common symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, and unexplained weight loss, recent research shows that certain leg symptoms may appear first. Patients may experience pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in the legs, which can serve as early warning signs of pancreatic cancer. Recognising these subtle indicators is vital for timely diagnosis and treatment, potentially improving survival rates. With pancreatic cancer causing over a million deaths globally each year, awareness of both traditional and early leg symptoms is crucial for prevention and early intervention.

1. Pain in the legsPersistent or unexplained pain in the legs can be a subtle yet significant warning sign. This discomfort may arise from deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, often in the legs. According to the American Cancer Society in the context of pancreatic cancer, DVT can occur due to the body’s altered clotting mechanisms, which are influenced by the presence of cancerous cells 2. Swelling in the legsUnexplained swelling in one or both legs, especially if it develops suddenly, can indicate the presence of a blood clot or other circulatory issues. In pancreatic cancer patients, such swelling may be linked to DVT or the compression of blood vessels by tumour growth, leading to impaired blood flow 3. Redness in the legsRedness or a reddish hue in the skin of the legs can be a sign of inflammation or infection. In the case of DVT associated with pancreatic cancer, the affected area may appear red due to increased blood flow as the body attempts to combat the clot 4. Warmth in the legsA sensation of warmth in the legs, particularly around the swollen or painful areas, can indicate inflammation. This warmth is often a response to the body’s immune system reacting to the clot or tumour. In pancreatic cancer, such symptoms may be among the first to manifest, preceding more typical signs like jaundice or abdominal pain

The presence of these leg symptoms, especially when they occur without an obvious cause, should not be dismissed. They may serve as early indicators of pancreatic cancer, prompting timely medical evaluation and intervention. Early detection is paramount, as pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at advanced stages, making treatment more challenging and prognosis less favourable

Other early signs of pancreatic cancer

While leg symptoms are significant, it’s essential to be aware of other early signs of pancreatic cancer:

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, medication, or lifestyle.Also read | Is breast cancer genetic? Know how gene mutations and family history increase your risk