The American Cancer Society (ACS) has officially published their Annual Cancer Facts & Figures Report, a reputable record for national cancer statistics. The latest data shows the 5-year pancreatic cancer survival rate holding steady at 13%. Pancreatic cancer remains the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States after lung and colon cancers. This report also shares that individuals diagnosed with local stages of the disease have a survival rate of 44%, a number that has increased in survival by 5% since 2021, emphasizing the importance of early detection. It’s important to remember that these are statistics, but they are not the driving force behind the Hirshberg Foundation’s commitment to fight this disease – patients and families are!
The journey of pancreatic cancer remains unique for each individual, and survivors should have support and care that fits their needs. Dr. Timonthy Donahue, Director of the AH Center for Pancreatic Diseases at UCLA shared at the Foundation’s Symposium, “We are not only giving state of the art care, we are redefining state-of-the-art care.” Additionally, scientists are vigorously investigating pancreatic cancer as part of the Foundation’s Seed Grant Program with the newest cohort of scientists focusing on therapies and treatments, early diagnosis, and prevention. Advancing research to improve patient care, pioneering new therapies, and ultimately boosting pancreatic cancer survival rates is a fundamental part of the Foundation’s mission. Pancreatic cancer will continue to be relentlessly fought on all fronts.
Foundation news, educational videos, and research updates shared in the last few months include: the new cohort of Seed Grant recipients for 2024/2025, improving patient care through the Canopy Cancer Collective, and Targeting KRAS to Treat Pancreatic Cancer. Executive Director Lisa Manheim shares, “Our dedication to improving outcomes for patients has never been more resolute. A dedicated community of skilled scientists and doctors is advancing pancreatic cancer research worldwide. Each year, we make significant strides fueled by progress, exploration, and partnership. Our commitment to offering patients the hope of improved outcomes has never been stronger.”
This analysis in this report demonstrates a continued need to address modifiable risk factors, consider genetic testing, and explore avenues for early detection. Modifiable risk factors like smoking put individuals at twice the risk of diagnosis. These risk factors are being investigated by Hirshberg Foundation scientists in our labs at UCLA and across the country; the research is in the areas of type 2 diabetes, obesity, and pancreatitis. The UCLA based Sahin-Toth Laboratory focuses on major risk factor for pancreatic cancer, hereditary chronic pancreatitis; this lab is led by our Scientific Advisory Board Chair, Dr. Miklos Sahin-Toth. The Hirshberg Translational Laboratory is solely dedicated to investigating the intricate ways that diet, obesity and inflammation can accelerate tumor development. The Hirshberg Foundation looks forward to sharing more advances in 2025!
The Hirshberg Foundation continues to lead the fight for a cure and share our mantra: Never Give Up. Survivors, caregivers, and families remain the most powerful champions and heartfelt supporters in this fight. Join us by making a donation, attending a Hirshberg event, or elevating awareness in your community, so together we can continue this momentum towards a cure.
The 19th Annual Symposium on Pancreatic Cancer will be held in-person at UCLA on April 5th, with videos made available to watch online. This is a pivotal event for our community with Founder, Agi Hirshberg sharing last year, “If you’re here for the first time, you will meet friends that have enjoyed cancer free life for 5, 10, 15 and 22 years!” Patients, caregivers, long-term survivors, and family members are invited to sign up for this free event when registration opens in February.
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Patient & Family Webinars
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