Early Signs of Liver and Pancreatic Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore
Liver and pancreatic cancers are serious health conditions that often go unnoticed in the early stages. Many people ignore the initial signs, thinking they are just minor digestive problems. But early detection can make a huge difference and even save lives. Dr. S. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is a highly experienced Robotic and Laparoscopic Liver and Pancreas Surgeon in Chennai with over 17 years of surgical experience. He specialises in robotic GI cancer surgeries involving the liver, pancreas, stomach, colon, and esophagus. At GEM Hospital, Chennai, he offers advanced treatments like robotic pancreatic surgery and robotic liver surgery in Chennai for faster recovery and better outcomes. In this blog, let us understand the early signs of liver and pancreatic cancers that you should never ignore—and how timely expert care can make all the difference.
Why Early Detection Matters:
Cancer in the liver or pancreas often grows silently. Symptoms appear only when the disease has advanced. By the time many people seek medical help, the cancer may have spread to other organs. Early detection allows better treatment options with less risk and faster recovery. Thanks to innovations in robotic and laparoscopic surgery, patients now have access to precise and less invasive treatments.
Understanding Liver Cancer:
The liver is a vital organ that helps in digestion, detoxification, and storing nutrients. Liver cancer usually begins in the cells of the liver, and the most common type is hepatocellular carcinoma. This condition is more common in people with long-term liver diseases such as cirrhosis, hepatitis B or C, or fatty liver disease. In India, rising alcohol use and viral hepatitis have made liver cancer more common.
Early Signs of Liver Cancer:
Liver cancer symptoms may not show early, but some warning signs include:
- Pain or discomfort in the right upper part of the abdomen
- Swelling in the belly
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness and tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Pale stools and dark urine
These symptoms can also be caused by other liver conditions, but if they last more than a few days, it’s important to consult a specialist.
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer:
The pancreas helps in digestion and controls blood sugar levels. Pancreatic cancer is a fast-spreading disease and often difficult to diagnose in the early stages. This cancer mostly affects people above 60, smokers, and those with chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, or a family history of cancer. It can develop in either the head or body/tail of the pancreas and presents differently based on the location.
Early Signs of Pancreatic Cancer:
Like liver cancer, pancreatic cancer often has vague symptoms. Some early warning signs are:
- Pain in the upper abdomen or back
- Sudden weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice without pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- New-onset diabetes
- Fatigue
- Pale or greasy stools
If you experience more than one of these symptoms for a long time, it is wise to consult an expert in pancreatic disease treatment in Chennai.
When to See a Specialist:
It is important not to ignore these signs, especially if you have risk factors like hepatitis, alcohol use, smoking, or a family history of cancer. If your symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, visit a gastroenterologist or liver and pancreas surgeon immediately. Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, practising at GEM Hospital, Chennai, is a trusted name in this field. He offers personalised care and minimally invasive procedures like robotic pancreatic surgery and robotic liver surgery in Chennai, which ensure quicker recovery and better outcomes.
Diagnostic Tests and Procedures:
To confirm if the symptoms are related to cancer, the following tests are usually done:
- Blood tests: To check liver function and tumour markers (AFP for liver, CA 19-9 for pancreas)
- Ultrasound or CT scan: To see the size and location of any tumour
- MRI or PET scan: To check if cancer has spread
- Biopsy: A sample of tissue is taken to confirm the diagnosis
Robotic diagnostic approaches now help doctors to access difficult areas with better accuracy and fewer complications.
Preventive Measures & Lifestyle Tips:
Although not all cancers can be prevented, healthy habits can reduce your risk:
- Limit alcohol and tobacco use
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced diet – Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis B
- Manage diabetes and other health conditions
- Undergo regular health check-ups if you have risk factors
Early screening and prompt care can make a big difference.
Conclusion:
Liver and pancreatic cancers are serious but treatable if caught early. Do not ignore the signs like unexplained weight loss, jaundice, or ongoing abdominal pain. With expert guidance and advanced treatments like robotic pancreatic surgery and robotic liver surgery in Chennai, the chances of a successful recovery improve greatly. If you or your loved one is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t delay. Get expert help today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Common early signs include right upper abdominal pain, bloating, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), and dark urine. If these symptoms persist, consult a liver specialist immediately.
Yes, early-stage liver and pancreatic cancers can sometimes be detected through imaging tests, blood markers, and routine check-ups—especially in high-risk individuals. Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes significantly.
Robotic surgery uses advanced robotic systems to perform complex surgeries with high precision. It results in smaller cuts, less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery, especially helpful for delicate organs like the liver and pancreas.
You can consult Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy at GEM Hospital, Chennai, for expert evaluation and treatment. He is one of the most experienced robotic GI cancer surgeons in Chennai.