Pancreatic cancer

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer is the eleventh most common cancer in the UK, yet it is the fifth most common cause of cancer death. In the UK, the age-standardised incidence has risen by 11% over the last decade. The symptoms are often vague, and as a result, it rarely presents at an early stage. Prognosis is determined by stage at presentation, therefore prompt recognition and referral of suspicious symptoms is vital. Survival rates remain poor, with just a 3% rate of 5-year survival. GPs therefore have an important role in both the early recognition and palliative care of patients with pancreatic cancer.