About 25,000 to 30,000 new cases of pancreatic cancer occur in the United States each year. Unfortunately, this type of cancer generally develops without symptoms until it is in advanced stages. It is considered a "silent" disease.

Very little is known about what causes pancreatic cancer. And little is known about how to prevent it. We know that risk increases after the age of 50. Most cases occur in people between 65 and 79. We know incidence rates for smokers are more than twice as high as those for nonsmokers. Some studies have suggested associations with chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, or cirrhosis. In countries where the diet is high in fat, pancreatic cancer rates are higher.

At present, only surgical biopsy can give you a certain diagnosis. Usually the need for biopsy is obvious only after the disease has advanced. Researchers are studying ways to diagnose this cancer before symptoms appear.

Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are treatment options. Unfortunately, they have very little effect. The diagnosis may come so late that none of these are used.

Often, the most important part of dealing with pancreatic cancer is managing pain. If you or a loved one has pancreatic cancer, be sure to discuss your options for pain control.

To learn more about pancreatic cancer, call the American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345 or the National Cancer Institute at (800) 4-CANCER.

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