Pancreatic Cancer: A Silent Killer We Need to Talk About This November

SAN ANDREAS, CA (November 1, 2025) - This November, in observance of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, Dignity Health is urging communities to understand the often-subtle signs of pancreatic cancer, its risk factors, and the critical importance of early detection.

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging cancers to diagnose and treat, accounting for a significant number of cancer deaths each year. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), more than 66,000 people were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the U.S. in 2024, and more than 51,000 succumbed to the disease. The 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is alarmingly low, at just 13% for all stages combined, making proactive awareness and early intervention critically important.

"Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month is not just about recognition; it's about revolution”, shares Dr. Pardeep Athwal, Chief Medical Officer at Mark Twain Medical Center. “With more than 51,000 lives lost annually to this brutal disease, complacency is not an option. We are relentless in our pursuit of earlier diagnosis and more effective treatments, because every single life deserves a fighting chance."

Key Facts and Figures Underscore the Importance of Awareness:

• Early Detection is Key: The 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer dramatically improves when the disease is found at an early, localized stage, jumping to 44%. This stark difference underscores the critical importance of recognizing symptoms and discussing risk factors with a healthcare provider. 
• Subtle Symptoms, Significant Impact: Pancreatic cancer often presents with vague symptoms in its early stages, such as abdominal pain that radiates to the back, unexplained weight loss, new-onset diabetes, fatigue, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). These symptoms can easily be mistaken for less serious conditions, delaying diagnosis.
• Risk Factors Beyond Our Control: While the exact causes are not fully understood, risk factors include smoking, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, long-standing diabetes, a family history of pancreatic cancer or certain genetic syndromes. These factors mean that many individuals are at risk, challenging common misconceptions about the disease.

Dignity Health provides comprehensive pancreatic cancer services across its facilities, demonstrating our commitment to healing body, mind, and spirit through integrated and holistic care experiences:

• Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities: Utilizing state-of-the-art imaging such as MRI, CT scans, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for accurate and timely detection.
• Expert Diagnosis and Staging: Employing cutting-edge biopsy techniques and genetic profiling to ensure precise diagnosis and personalized treatment planning.
• Multidisciplinary Treatment Plans: Collaborating with oncologists, gastroenterologists, surgeons, radiologists, and supportive care specialists to create individualized treatment plans, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.
• Support Services: Offering patient navigators, nutritional counseling, support groups, and palliative care to address the holistic needs of patients and their families throughout their journey, embodying our value of Compassion.
• Community Education: Hosting educational events and providing accessible resources to empower communities with knowledge about pancreatic cancer prevention and early detection strategies.

Dignity Health encourages everyone to take the following proactive steps:

• Understand Your Risk: Speaker with your doctor about your personal and family history regarding risk factors.
• Recognize the Symptoms: Be aware of common pancreatic cancer symptoms, which may include persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, new-onset diabetes, fatigue, and jaundice. 
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Factors such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol intake can help reduce risk.

"Early detection dramatically improves outcomes for people facing pancreatic cancer," emphasized Dr. Pardeep Athwal. "We urge everyone to be proactive with their health, engage in conversations with their doctors, and take advantage of the advanced care and resources Dignity Health offers in our communities.”

To learn more about pancreatic cancer awareness, screening, and treatment options available at CommonSpirit Health, please visit: https://www.dignityhealth.org/conditions-and-treatments/oncology/gastrointestinal-cancer/pancreatic-cancer

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About Mark Twain Medical Center

Founded in 1951, Mark Twain Medical Center is a 25-bed, critical access hospital providing inpatient acute care, outpatient services and emergency services; including Specialty Care Centers and four community Medical Centers. Our Medical Staff represents a broad range of specialties that ensure access to high quality medical care in a rural community.