Pancreatic cancer is a serious form of cancer that can be difficult to treat and has a low survival rate. The five-year survival rate for all stages of pancreatic cancer combined is just 10%. However, this number can vary depending on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the age and overall health of the patient.
Survival Rates by Stage
The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is highest for patients diagnosed with localized cancer, meaning it has not spread beyond the pancreas. For these patients, the five-year survival rate is 20%. For patients with regional cancer (cancer that has spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes), the five-year survival rate is 12%. For patients with distant cancer (cancer that has spread to other parts of the body), the five-year survival rate is 4%.
Factors that May Affect Survival
Several factors may influence a patient’s chances of surviving pancreatic cancer. These include the stage of the cancer, the type of cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and the treatments used.
Treatments for Pancreatic Cancer
Treatment for pancreatic cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and/or targeted therapies. Treatment decisions will be based on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient’s age and overall health. Treatment may help prolong survival in some cases, but it cannot cure pancreatic cancer.