This week’s release of the American Cancer Society (ACS) Cancer Facts & Figures Report shows an increase to 11% in the 5-year survival rate for all stages. Seeing this marked improvement in survival rates shows that we’re headed in the right direction in making a difference for the pancreatic cancer community.
An increase in the overall 5-year survival rate* for pancreatic cancer means more time with loved ones, greater hope for patients, and shows that our work is truly moving the needle. "This is positive news and it’s what we like to see. Statistics, however, can’t be the only driving force in this fight," says Agi Hirshberg, the Foundation Founder. "Moms, dads, and loved ones who courageously fight to beat the odds – they are our inspiration to find a cure. Our community is funding the best research in the world, and we’re doing it in honor of the people we love."
Our recent funding of 8 new Seed Grants continues to drive research and advance our understanding of this disease, with over 105 grants to date. With projects focused on targeted therapy, early detection, and prevention for high-risk individuals, our teams are striving to improve patient outcomes. Learn more about these Seed Grant projects in the most recent edition of our Momentum Newsletter.
The ACS report shares that 62,210 people in the US will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2022, a 2.8% increase from last year and a steadfast reminder of how important it is for each of us to take action today. Make 2022 the year to establish a personal cancer prevention plan for 2022 by learning the risk factors and facts about pancreatic cancer. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, contact us today.
Resources for Patients, Preventions, and Education
As this new data is reviewed, we encourage you to be proactive and utilize the many resources available to our community. “We empower our community with resources, support, and education to fight for a cancer-free life,” shares Executive Director, Lisa Manheim. The actions we take for our own health and the health of our loved ones will help us beat the statistics.
* The five-year survival rate, for the sake of this report, was determined by stage at diagnosis from 2011-2017 in the US.