Pancreatic Cancer Overview: Location and Statistics

Study Notes

The pancreas is a glandular organ shaped like a flattened pear. It measures approximately 6 - 10 inches in length.
Pancreatic cancer primarily affects people over the age of 65.
Pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.
Smoking is a known risk factor for developing pancreatic cancer.
The pancreas plays a vital role in digestion and blood sugar regulation.
Common symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice, and loss of appetite.
Chemotherapy is the primary treatment modality for unresectable pancreatic cancer.
The median survival time after curative surgery for pancreatic cancer is approximately 18-24 months.
The majority of pancreatic cancers are classified as adenocarcinomas.

The pancreas is a gland shaped like a pear, located behind the stomach and in front of the spine
The pancreas is about 6 inches (15 cm) long
The majority of pancreatic cancers occur in individuals over the age of 65
Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the USA
Smoking is a known risk factor for developing pancreatic cancer
The primary function of the pancreas is to produce digestive enzymes and hormones
Common symptoms of pancreatic cancer include abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice, and fatigue
Chemotherapy is the main modality used in treating unresectable pancreatic disease
The median survival time after curative surgery for pancreatic cancer is between 18 to 24 months
The majority of pancreatic cancers are classified as adenocarcinomas