Pancreatic cancer is a serious and life-threatening illness. While there have been some cases of people surviving stage 4 pancreatic cancer, it is very rare. It is estimated that only 5 to 10 percent of people diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer will survive beyond five years.
Survival Rates
According to the National Cancer Institute, the five-year relative survival rate for stage 4 pancreatic cancer is 3.8 percent. This means that only 3.8 percent of people diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer will survive for five years or more. The overall survival rate for stage 4 pancreatic cancer is even lower, with only 1 percent of people surviving beyond five years.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for stage 4 pancreatic cancer depend on a number of factors, including the patient’s general health and the size and location of the tumor. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used to shrink the tumor and improve the patient’s chances of survival.
Outlook
The outlook for people with stage 4 pancreatic cancer is not good. While it is possible to survive the disease, the survival rates are very low. It is important to remember that each person is different and will respond differently to treatment. It is important to discuss treatment options with your doctor to determine the best course of action.
