Final answer:
Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of pancreatic cancer, with jaundice as its most common presentation. It typically affects the head of the pancreas and is associated with late-stage diagnosis due to its fast growth and lack of early-stage symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common type of pancreatic cancer is adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic ductal epithelium. This type of cancer is typically located in the head of the pancreas and is notorious for being diagnosed at a late stage, often making it too late for curative surgery. The most common presentation of pancreatic carcinoma is jaundice, due to bile duct obstruction, along with weight loss, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. Other symptoms can include the onset of diabetes, itchy skin, and changes in bowel movements. Factors increasing the risk of developing pancreatic cancer include smoking, chronic pancreatitis, and diabetes mellitus. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancers grow quickly and are frequently detected only once they've reached an advanced stage.