Pancreatic cancer often overlooked, diagnosed late

Pancreatic cancer, recognized as a silent yet potent malignancy, stands among the most lethal forms of cancer. Although ranking as the twelfth most prevalent cancer diagnosed globally, it claims the seventh highest fatality rate, with a disappointing 5 to 10 percent 5-year survival rate. [Available at https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/pancreatic-cancer/pancreatic-cancer-prognosis Accessed on 30 August 2023]  According to the Global Cancer Observatory 2020 (Globocan) report by the WHO, Malaysia had 1,089 new cases of pancreatic cancer, resulting in 1,066 fatalities. Notably, the incidence was calculated at approximately two individuals per 100,000. [Available at https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/populations/458-malaysia-fact-sheets.pdf Accessed on 30 August 2023]

The diminished prospects for survival largely stem from the advanced stage at which pancreatic cancer is typically identified and diagnosed, often leaving treatment options limited and surgical intervention unfeasible. Despite this prognosis, the potential for recovery remains possible through early detection and intervention. Thus, the significance of prevention and early detection cannot be overstated, given their pivotal role in shaping patients’ trajectories and health outcomes.

In response to this dire situation, Servier Malaysia and the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM) have collaborated to increase awareness about the importance of being proactive and timely in managing pancreatic cancer via a campaign titled “TOGETHER, WE ARE STRONGER … Supporting Each Other through Pancreatic Cancer.”

Speaking at the launch of the campaign, Dr Kshitij Panse, General Manager of Servier Malaysia, said: “This pancreatic cancer awareness programme aims to highlight the importance of early detection and intervention while pointing patients and their families to services and support that can help them embrace the challenges of living with this devastating disease. It aligns well with Servier’s focus to always place patients’ voice and needs at the heart of all our activities, from research and development to community programmes.”

He said their collaboration with healthcare professionals to educate and enhance public knowledge about this disease is complemented by NCSM’s psychosocial support services that is available for both patients and their families.   

NCSM’s Managing Director, Dr Murallitharan Munisamy, noted living with pancreatic cancer can be exhausting. It can have devastating effects on the patient, their carers, and family members. This is where NCSM can play a significant supporting role. “We are here to tell them that they need not walk this journey alone. We are here for them. NCSM’s clinical psychology and multi-disciplinary support services cover the physical, emotional and mental needs of both patients and their families. The services are available from the point of cancer diagnosis up to survivorship stage. It encompasses a wide range of areas including emotional support, coping strategies, anxiety and depression management, grief and loss, dietary and nutritional advice as well as guidance to improve their overall quality of life.”

He encouraged anyone suffering from pancreatic cancer to call their toll-free support line at 1-800-88-100. “Our overarching aim is to empower patients and their families to stay strong as they support each other and walk the journey together,” Murallitharan added.

Pancreatic cancer backgrounder
Consultant Clinical Oncologist Dr Tan Chih Kiang, explained that pancreatic cancer affects more men above 50 years than women. Diabetes, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and a family history of cancer are all risk factors. It is recommended that anyone experiencing persistent abdominal or mid-back pain, jaundice, unintentional weight loss, or digestive issues, consult a physician who may conduct imaging or diagnostic tests to determine the cause.

Due to the prevalence and vagueness of these symptoms, pancreatic cancer is frequently misdiagnosed or goes undetected. This makes early detection difficult, resulting in delayed diagnosis, restricted treatment options, and decreased survival rates. Once diagnosed, and depending on the stage of the cancer, treatment options include surgery, systemic therapy such as chemotherapy and targeted treatment, radiotherapy, and palliative and supportive therapy.