Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that helps with digestion and blood sugar regulation. This cancer often goes undetected in its early stages because symptoms can be vague or absent. Common signs may include abdominal pain, weight loss, and jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin and eyes. The exact cause of pancreatic cancer is not fully understood, but certain risk factors have been identified. These include smoking, obesity, family history, and chronic conditions like diabetes. Early detection is challenging, making it one of the more aggressive forms of cancer.