GENESEO, N.Y., Nov. 18, 2022 – Across the United States, individuals, groups, organizations and others are joining together in support to cancer research and education as November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.
An organ deep in the abdomen between the stomach and the spine, the pancreas secretes proteins into the bloodstream and into other tissues throughout the body. Aside from aiding in digestion, the organ also helps to produce blood-sugar regulating hormones. It is estimated that pancreatic cancer results in nearly 50,000 deaths in the United States each year. Pancreatic cancer has the highest mortality rate of all major cancers with a five-year survival rate of just 11 percent.
Early detection can often make a significant impact. Knowing the symptoms associated with pancreatic cancer can also make a critical difference in early detection. Symptoms are often vague and may at first appear to be associated with other less serious or more common conditions. Indications of possible pancreatic cancer include stomach pain, mid-back pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, loss of appetite or nausea, indigestion, changes in stool and new-onset diabetes.
While the majority of causes linked to pancreatic cancer are presently unknown, there is evidence that age, obesity, smoking, pancreatitis, diabetes and family history may increase your risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, Livingston County encourages you to speak with your healthcare provider today.
Learn more about pancreatic cancer and other resources by visiting the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research’s website.
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is comprised of more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.