Pancreatic cancer unfortunately comes with a poor prognosis. It is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths within the United States, though it is on track to become the second leading cause within the next 5-10 years. A 2023 “Facts & Figures” report from the American Cancer Society also suggests that more people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2023 than in previous years. However, the report is not all bad news. As shared by the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), the five-year survival rate has risen.

The rise in survival rate is not large; it increased from 11% in 2022 to 12% in 2023. Yet this represents the second time in as many years that the five-year survival rate has increased. One percentage point correlates to approximately 641 people who will live longer and spend more time with friends and family. This upwards trend correlates with new technology, medications, and research centered around improving outcomes.

Ideally, PanCAN hopes to continue its work towards improving pancreatic cancer outcomes through research, support, advocacy, and education. The organization has a goal of raising the five-year survival rate by an additional eight percentage points within the next 7 years. For the good of patients and caregivers alike, we hope to see survival rates trending in that direction!

What is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer, as the name suggests, manifests in the pancreas. Normally, this organ releases hormones and enzymes that play a role in blood sugar management and food digestion. There are different subtypes of pancreatic cancer based on where the cancer forms. For example, pancreatic adenocarcinoma begins in cells that line the pancreatic ducts; Islet cell tumors began in hormone-producing cells. Doctors are not entirely sure what causes pancreatic cancer, though risk factors like smoking, obesity, olde age, being male, and certain genetic mutations have been identified.

Symptoms related to this cancer can include:

• Unintentional weight loss
• Appetite loss
• Abdominal pain that radiates to the back
• Newly onset or worsening diabetes
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes)
• Dark colored urine and light colored stools
• Fatigue
• Blood clots
• Itchiness
• Bowel obstructions 

Treatment options may include radiation, surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.