Shining a Light on One of the Toughest Cancers to Detect and Why Awareness Matters

Every November, we come together to recognize Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, early detection advocacy, and honoring those affected by this aggressive and often silent disease.

Unlike many other cancers, pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect and early symptoms are often vague or mistaken for common digestive issues. By the time it is diagnosed, it is frequently already advanced, which is why awareness and research funding are so critical.

Why Pancreatic Cancer Needs More Attention

• It is the 3rd leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S. and is projected to rise.
• The 5-year survival rate is still below 13%, but early detection improves outcomes dramatically.
• There is no single screening test. Awareness of warning signs is one of the best tools we have right now.

Common Early Symptoms to Watch For

✔️ Unexplained weight loss
✔️ Upper abdominal or back pain
✔️ Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
✔️ Change in stool (greasy or light-colored)
✔️ Loss of appetite, nausea, or fatigue
✔️ Sudden onset diabetes with no family history

These symptoms do not always indicate pancreatic cancer but they should prompt a conversation with a doctor, especially for individuals with genetic or family-history risk factors.

How You Can Support the Cause This Month

• Wear purple to show support
• Share educational posts on social media
• Donate to research organizations like PanCAN or the Lustgarten Foundation
• Participate in local or virtual awareness walks & events
• Encourage loved ones to know the symptoms and risk factors

For the Fighters, the Survivors, and Those We’ve Lost

This month, and every month, we honor the courage of those who are battling pancreatic cancer and the families and caregivers walking beside them. We also hold space for the loved ones who are no longer here, but whose strength continues to inspire change.

The more we talk about it, the more lives we can save.