The American Cancer Society estimates that 66,440 adults (34,530 men and 31,910 women) in the United States will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2024. The disease accounts for approximately 3% of all cancers and is the third leading cancer cause of death because it is often detected at a later stage. Pancreatic cancer typically refers to pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is different from the less common and less aggressive disease called pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor.
The pancreas is an organ located deep within the abdomen. Individuals affected by pancreatic cancer may not show early symptoms depending on the location of the cancer. A common symptom is jaundice or yellowing of the eyes and skin. Early detection of pancreatic cancer, that is, prior to the development of any symptoms, can increase chances for survival. Johns Hopkins Medicine has reported that five-year survival rates approach 37% if the cancers are surgically removed while they are still small and have not spread to the lymph nodes.
Screening & diagnosis
Roughly 1 of 60 adults are at risk for developing pancreatic cancer. White Plains Hospital has established a Pancreatic Screening Program to help identify individuals who may have certain risk factors and recommend follow-up testing and consultation. If you answer “yes” to any of these statements, you may be at higher risk of pancreatic cancer:
- Have you ever had genetic testing? If yes, do you carry:
- a BRCA2 gene mutation?
- a CDKN2A gene mutation associated with Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma, or it runs in your family?
- a BRCA1 gene mutation and have family members with pancreatic cancer?
- A colon cancer gene mutation (such as Lynch), and have family members diagnosed with pancreatic cancer?
- Another gene mutation (such as ATM or PALB2), and have family members diagnosed with pancreatic cancer?
- Do you have an immediate family member diagnosed under the age of 50, or multiple family members who have pancreatic cancer?
- Have Peutz-Jeghers syndrome?
- Have Chronic Pancreatitis Syndrome?
If you are at higher risk of pancreatic cancer, you may qualify for a diagnostic screening, which consists of one of two tests:
An Endoscopic Ultrasound, which combines two kinds of technology: endoscopy, which uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera and a light on the end, and ultrasound, which uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed pictures of internal organs.
An MRI of the abdomen with contrast, which is a scan that uses a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to create detailed images of the belly area from many views. Dye is injected in a vein in the arm or hand to provide additional information.
To learn more about pancreatic screening, call 914.849.7100 or take a health risk assessment to learn if you’re at risk for pancreatic cancer.
Click here to read about White Plains Hospital physicians’ successful pancreatic cancer screening trial:
Successful Pancreatic Cancer Screening Among Individuals
Click here for a study that shows how surveillance of high-risk individuals may lead to improved survival:
Surveillance for Pancreatic Cancer in High-Risk Individuals - The ASCO Post
Treatment
Treatment options for pancreatic cancer vary depending on the stage and location of the cancer. Often, surgery is considered to remove the cancer, sometimes in combination with chemotherapy and/or radiation. Of course, your care team will discuss your treatment plan based on your diagnosis and overall health.