Awareness and Resources for Better Self Management of Pancreatic Cancer

Abstract

Anuja Keerthi Konda

There are many types of cancers, some can be visibly suspicious and detectable, and some are hard to know until they progress to advanced stage. Unfortunately, the cancer in advance stage could be fatal and the treatment could yield simply extending the life span for a short-term. One of such cancers is the pancreatic cancer which has been reported in the literature as the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. In recent time, pancreatic cancer received additional attention due to the fact that several prominent figures, including Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and actor Patrick Swayze have passed away with pancreatic cancer. Literature indicates that there is no standard screening protocol for pancreatic cancer currently. Additionally, it was noted that pancreatic cancer is highly lethal because it spreads rapidly and is not easily detectable in its initial stages. In view of the severity of pancreatic cancer, it is important that individuals gain awareness about pancreatic cancer so that they could self-manage and be proactive in taking measures at early stages so that it can be treatable for long-term benefit. This paper presents an awareness and knowledge to general population about pancreatic cancer, types of diagnosis, preventive steps, prominent cancer treatment facilities, and supportive resources for patients and caregivers.

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