How common is pancreatic cancer?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

In the United States, about 37,000 people are diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, the most common type of pancreatic cancer, every year. Other types of pancreatic cancer are much less common.

John A. Chabot on behalf of Columbia University Department of Surgery

Endocrinology Diabetes & Metabolism

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Each year, approximately 42,000 Americans develop cancer of the pancreas. If it is confined to the pancreas and hasn't spread to surrounding organs or lymph nodes, the cancer can sometimes be cured through surgery.

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John A. Chabot

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Pancreatic Cancer

Often asymptomatic in the beginning, pancreatic cancer is very difficult to diagnose and typically spreads rapidly to other parts of the body. Cancer occurs when abnormal cells form in the lining of the pancreas, an organ of the endocrine system that is responsible for making enzymes for digestion and for producing certain hormones such as insulin. Even though only 1 in 76 people develop this disease, it is the fourth deadliest type of cancer and is difficult to cure. No one knows what causes pancreatic cancer, and even the few known risk factors are not fully understood. Visit your doctor if you have unexplained weight loss, a loss of appetite, abdominal pain that radiates up your back, or a yellow tint to your eyes or skin.

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