Pancreas Cancer Life Expectancy

The pancreas is an important organ in the digestive system, and when pancreatic cancer is diagnosed, then there are several complication. Unfortunately pancreas cancer life expectancy is low. According to the National Cancer Association  pancreas cancer life expectancy is minimal, only 20% of those diagnosed live past the first year, and of those only 4% live to 5 years.

A lot of research has been done to improve these numbers, and although nothing definitive has been found, there is promise. A clinical trial medication called Bevacizumab seems to be having some positive effects. This medication helps minimize the growth of the tumors in several ways. One way is by diminishing the blood flow to the tumor itself.

The reason why pancreas cancer life expectancy is so low is because the detection of the cancer takes so long. This is because the symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often confused with other diseases, so it is always almost too late by the time the cancer is actually detected.

As of now, more research needs to be done as to the causes of pancreatic cancer, and the early detection of it, so that pancreas cancer life expectancy can be increased. Better medication also needs to be produced to minimize the growth and eliminate it.

Obviously the best way to avoid pancreatic cancer is to eliminate the risks from a persons daily life. Studies have found that smoking greatly increases the risk of pancreatic cancer, and in patients who have had lung cancer caused by smoking, pancreatic cancer is the secondary cancer that is most likely to appear.

Note: Please consult a professional for medical advice.