Stages of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a very aggressive cancer that often spreads quickly. The stages of pancreatic cancer are based on how far the cancer has spread from the pancreas. The earlier the cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances of survival.

• Stage 0: The cancer is in the lining of the pancreas and has not spread to any other tissues.
• Stage I: The cancer is confined to the pancreas but has grown into nearby tissue.
• Stage II: The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes near the pancreas.
• Stage III: The cancer has spread to nearby organs, such as the liver or stomach.
• Stage IV: The cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the lungs or bones.

The time it takes for pancreatic cancer to progress from one stage to the next varies from person to person. Some people may be diagnosed with stage IV cancer right away, while others may live with stage I or II cancer for many years.

The average survival rate for pancreatic cancer is 9%. However, the survival rate varies depending on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis. For example, the 5-year survival rate for stage I pancreatic cancer is 25%, while the 5-year survival rate for stage IV pancreatic cancer is less than 5%.

There are a number of factors that can affect the survival rate for pancreatic cancer, including the patient’s age, overall health, and the type of cancer. However, early diagnosis and treatment are the most important factors in improving survival rates.

If you have any of the following symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away:

• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Dark urine
• Light-colored stools
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty digesting food
• Pain or discomfort in the back

Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease, but early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of survival.