Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, with a five-year survival rate of just 9%. It is estimated that in 2020, over 57,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and over 47,000 will die from the disease.
Early detection is key to survival when it comes to pancreatic cancer. Unfortunately, the symptoms of pancreatic cancer can be vague and easily mistaken for other conditions. This is why it is important to be aware of the risk factors and to get regular screenings if you are at an increased risk.
Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include age (over 45), smoking, obesity, diabetes, and a family history of the disease. If you have any of these risk factors, it is important to talk to your doctor about getting screened.
Screening for pancreatic cancer can include imaging tests such as CT scans and MRI scans, as well as blood tests to look for elevated levels of certain proteins that can indicate the presence of cancer. If cancer is detected, further tests may be needed to determine the stage of the cancer and the best course of treatment.
Treatment for pancreatic cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. The type of treatment will depend on the stage of the cancer and the patient’s overall health.
The key to surviving pancreatic cancer is early detection. If you are at an increased risk for the disease, talk to your doctor about getting screened. The earlier the cancer is detected, the better the chances of survival.