Canadians call for more research
This November, Pancreatic Cancer Canada is leading a campaign to raise awareness and funds to combat pancreatic cancer, one of the world’s deadliest diseases.
The organization invites Canadians to support fundraising efforts, join awareness initiatives, and attend events, including a high-profile axe-throwing event planned for this month.
On November 21, for World Pancreatic Cancer Day, over 40 landmarks across Canada, such as the CN Tower, Calgary Tower, and Montreal’s Olympic Park, will light up.
This illumination honours those affected, commemorates lives lost, and emphasizes the urgency for better survival rates and improved support for patients.
The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer remains at only 10 percent, meaning 90 percent of patients do not survive beyond five years.
Pancreatic cancer is currently the third deadliest cancer and is expected to become the second by 2030.
Recent trends show a higher incidence rate among women under 55, while studies indicate that Gen-Xers and Millennials are at significantly increased risk for developing pancreatic and other cancers compared to prior generations.
Pancreatic Cancer Canada projects that in 2024, more than 7,100 Canadians will face a pancreatic cancer diagnosis.
Over the past five decades, progress in improving pancreatic cancer survival has been minimal, and the disease remains underfunded and overlooked.
Pancreatic Cancer Canada’s CEO, Michelle Capobianco, stresses that “to fundamentally change outcomes for this disease, more must be done. A significant shift in thinking and investment needs to happen now.”
She urges Canadians to contribute, explaining that “more awareness means more early detection, giving people more time.” Capobianco highlights that increased funding for innovative research could advance early diagnosis and treatment options and improve quality of life for patients and their families.
Pancreatic cancer advocate Sarah Illiatovitch-Goldman, whose brother battled pancreatic cancer, shares that her family’s journey taught them essential lessons.
“We learned so much during my brother’s journey with pancreatic cancer,” she says. She underscores the importance of self-advocacy, knowledge, and a support network, including family, friends, and organizations like Pancreatic Cancer Canada.
Illiatovitch-Goldman states that “more needs to be done to prevent other families from experiencing the pain and loss we have suffered.”
Pancreatic Cancer Canada welcomes Canadians to contribute toward early detection initiatives or honour loved ones affected by pancreatic cancer. The organization provides options for donations on its website.
By participating in this month’s awareness campaign, Canadians can support the push for timely diagnosis, new treatments, and improved outcomes for those affected by pancreatic cancer.
