Malabsorption of nutrients
The pancreas has a very important exocrine activity, which means it synthesizes and releases substances. These substances end up in the first portion of the small intestines and promote the absorption of fatty acids and other nutrients. Cancer typically destroys the exocrine cells, and it may also cause an obstruction of the pancreatic duct. Since there’s a reduction in digestive enzymes, the absorption of nutrients is compromised, and patients are more susceptible to weight loss and wasting syndrome.