Every November, people from around the globe come together to participate in Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, a campaign dedicated to shining a light on pancreatic cancer—a highly aggressive and often deadly form of cancer. Through education and advocacy, organizations and individuals work to increase public understanding of pancreatic cancer, focusing on risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection and preventive measures. The goal is to ultimately reduce the impact of this disease and improve survival rates for those affected.

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is the eighth most common cancer in women and the tenth most common in men. According to 2020 data, approximately 466,003 people worldwide died from this type of cancer, which is one of the most aggressive forms of the disease. Over 90% of cases are exocrine adenocarcinomas, which start in the part of the pancreas that produces digestive enzymes. This type of pancreatic cancer is particularly dangerous because it rarely shows symptoms in the early stages. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer is often advanced and more challenging to treat. This difficulty in early detection contributes to pancreatic cancer being the seventh leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.

The Purple Ribbon of Awareness

Since 2000, Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month has been represented by the purple ribbon in the healthcare calendar. This symbol of solidarity serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against pancreatic cancer and the importance of continuous research and awareness efforts. One promising outcome of this awareness month has been a gradual increase in the survival rate for pancreatic cancer patients. Between 2011 and 2021, the survival rate rose from 3% to 8%, a small yet meaningful improvement. However, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted this progress, causing a slight decline to 7.3% in 2022.

In September 2023, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) held a special conference in Boston focused on advancements in pancreatic cancer research, demonstrating the global commitment to better understand and combat this disease.

Key Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer

Understanding what increases the risk of pancreatic cancer is essential to preventing it. Some of the primary risk factors include:

• Smoking: Cigarette smoking is one of the leading lifestyle-related risk factors for pancreatic cancer.

• Type 2 Diabetes: Those with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer, though the link is still being studied.

• Chronic Pancreatitis: Ongoing inflammation of the pancreas can increase the risk of cancer in this organ.

• Family History and Genetic Factors: Certain inherited conditions, like changes in the BRCA2 gene, Lynch syndrome, and familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAM) syndrome, can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Preventive Measures for Pancreatic Cancer

Since many pancreatic cancer cases are discovered too late, preventive measures and lifestyle changes play a vital role in lowering risk. Here are some recommended steps to take:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aiming for a balanced weight can reduce your overall cancer risk.

• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can lower your risk of pancreatic and other cancers.

• Reduce Processed Foods and Salt: Avoiding foods high in preservatives and sodium may help decrease cancer risk.

• Limit Red Meat Consumption: Reducing red meat intake has been linked with lower cancer risk.

• Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Fruits, vegetables, and other whole foods provide essential nutrients that may protect against cancer.

• Moving Forward: Hope and Progress

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month encourages both individuals and communities to take an active role in understanding and addressing pancreatic cancer. The campaign emphasizes that while lifestyle changes may reduce the risk, increased research and awareness are essential to saving lives. By spreading information and supporting research initiatives, we can work together toward a future where pancreatic cancer is more easily detected and effectively treated.

This November, let’s join hands to support this important cause, honour those who have been affected, and drive positive change in the fight against pancreatic cancer.