Treatment Options

Pancreatic cancer is often far advanced by the time symptoms occur and the diagnosis is established. As indicated by the poor five-year survival rates, successful treatment is rare.

Pancreatic cancer is difficult to manage, but much can be done to control symptoms and prolong life. A team of specialists, which may include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and endocrinologists, treat patients with pancreas cancer. Many patients are treated with surgery, radiation therapy (using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells), or chemotherapy (using drugs to rid cancer cells). Researchers are also testing several types of biological therapy (stimulating the body's immune system) to fight pancreatic cancer, or to protect the body from treatment side effects.

Pain Management

Medical statistics suggest that during the course of oncology care, 70 percent of patients will experience some form of pain which can affect their quality of life.

Medical Nutrition Therapy

Balanced nutrition is vital for pancreatic cancer patients. The pancreas is an organ that aids in digestion of food and regulates blood glucose levels, which means that digestion is likely to be affected by pancreatic cancer.