November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
Each November, The National Pancreas Foundation (NPF) joins with patients, caregivers, researchers, and advocates to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer — one of the deadliest cancers with significant unmet needs. Awareness matters: early detection saves lives, research needs funding, and equality in access to care can make a profound difference.
Why This Month Matters
The Power of Early Detection
Pancreatic cancer is the 3rd leading cause of U.S. cancer deaths, but raising awareness helps more people recognize risks and symptoms sooner.
Hope in the Numbers
While the overall 5-year survival rate is just 13%, early detection can raise it to over 80%.
Understanding Risk and Reducing Disparities
Higher risks affect Black/African American communities, with additional factors like age, family history, lifestyle, and genetics.
Driving Progress Together
Rising research funding is driving advances in diagnostics, genetics, treatments, and care.
Educational Webinars & Learning Opportunities
Patient Story: Alicia A.
Alicia A. from West Virginia was diagnosed with Stage 3 pancreatic cancer in 2021. In her story, she recounts the moment she received the life-altering news and the complex emotions that followed. She shares the challenges of undergoing treatment but highlights the profound impact of human connection throughout her journey, and advice she would give to her past self and other cancer thrivers.
Patient Story: Jon F.
Jon Fox of New York City is a survivor of testicular and pancreatic neuroendocrine cancers; two years after a Whipple, he also faced acute pancreatitis. He reflects on life’s fragility, guided by the Stoic reminder that “even the next hour is not guaranteed.” Teaching, writing, and connection sustain him, and he encourages fellow thrivers to meet each day with purpose.
How You Can Take Action & Get Involved
By learning, sharing, and acting, you can help move us toward earlier diagnoses, more effective treatments, and better lives for those impacted by pancreatic cancer.
