Clinical trials play an important role in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. For some patients, taking part may offer access to new therapies that are not yet widely available. Your care team can help determine whether a clinical trial may be an option and explain what participation involves.
What is Pancreatic Cancer ?
Pancreatic cancer affects the pancreas, an organ deep in the abdomen that helps with digestion and blood sugar control. It develops when cells in the pancreas begin to grow and divide abnormally, sometimes forming a tumor.
Pancreatic cancer often develops quietly and may not cause clear symptoms at first. Over time, some people notice subtle changes such as abdominal pain, weight loss or jaundice. Others learn something may be wrong only after testing for another health concern. If you or someone you care about has concerns, LifeBridge Health’s cancer specialists can help explain what this diagnosis may involve and guide next steps with care.
Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can vary based on where the cancer forms and how advanced it is. Signs may be subtle and include:
- Abdominal or back pain
- Loss of appetite
- Unintended weight loss
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine or pale stools
- Ongoing fatigue
How Pancreatic Cancer is Diagnosed
Pancreatic cancer is usually diagnosed using a combination of imaging tests and tissue sampling. Your care team may recommend any combination of the following.
Imaging Tests
CT scans or MRI can help identify tumors, blockages or changes in the pancreas and nearby organs.
Endoscopic Procedures
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or ERCP use a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look closely at the pancreas. These procedures may also allow for a biopsy when needed.
Biopsy
A small tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm pancreatic cancer and identify the specific type.
Blood Tests
Bloodwork, including tests of liver function and certain tumor markers, can support diagnosis and help guide treatment planning.
Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, where it’s located and your overall health. At LifeBridge Health, your care team works together across disciplines to recommend options that fit your specific diagnosis and treatment goals.
Surgery
For some patients, surgery may be an option to remove part or all of the pancreas and nearby tissue. Procedures such as the Whipple operation may be recommended when cancer is found early enough.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medication to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be used before or after surgery, as the main treatment when surgery is not possible or in combination with other therapies.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It’s often used alongside other treatment options.
Immunotherapy
Some pancreatic cancers respond to immunotherapy, which uses medication to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy focuses on specific parts of cancer cells that help them grow. This approach helps limit damage to healthy tissue.
Clinical Trials
Supportive Services
When you receive cancer care at LifeBridge Health, you have access to supportive services like counseling, integrative therapies and support groups. These resources are designed to help patients care for their physical and emotional well‑being throughout treatment and beyond.