In its Cancer Facts and Figures 2023 report, the American Cancer Society’s estimates about 64,050 people (33,130 men and 30,920 women) will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the United States this year. And, nearly 50,000 people (26,620 men and 23,930 women) will die from their pancreatic cancer.

The pancreas is a gland found behind the stomach and small intestine. It has two main jobs. First, the pancreas releases insulin to help regulate blood sugar. Insulin is what helps the sugar go from the blood stream into cells for energy. The other main job of the pancreas is to release juices, or enzymes, that aid in the digestion of fats, carbohydrates, and protein. When these jobs are not being performed correctly, issues or other health conditions develop.

In May 2023, the Georgia Cancer Center at Augusta University Health launched its Pancreas Cancer Screening Program in an effort to help people living in Georgia and South Carolina know their risks for developing pancreatic cancer earlier in life. Pancreatic cancer accounts for about 3% of all cancers in the US and about 7% of all cancer deaths. It is slightly more common in men than in women.

According to statistics from the National Cancer Institute, the number of new cases of pancreatic cancer has slowly been increasing. Unfortunately, the number of deaths is also climbing. While this early prevention strategy can help prevent the disease from developing, it will allow our team to detect the cancer earlier, giving our gastrointestinal oncologists an advantage in providing treatment.

To assess for screening, visit: go.augusta.edu/pancreas

Complete the Pancreas Cancer Screening Tool