What is the survival rate for pancreatic cancer?

Jun 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Last Monday, my uncle was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and is currently undergoing treatment in the hospital. What is the survival rate for pancreatic cancer?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Qi Zhirong
The survival rate for pancreatic cancer is influenced by multiple factors, and overall, it remains relatively low. Specifically: 1. Overall survival rate: The overall 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is only about 5%, making it one of the malignant tumors with the worst prognosis. 2. Impact of staging: For patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer who receive radical surgery in a timely manner, the 5-year survival rate can be as high as over 90%. However, once the tumor increases in size, cancer cells spread or metastasize, the 5-year survival rate drops significantly to around 40%. 3. Impact of treatment: For patients receiving radical resection, the 5-year survival rate does not exceed 20%. For untreated patients, the survival period is approximately four months. For pancreatic cancer, early detection and early treatment are key to improving patients' quality of life.