Pancreatic Cancer Facts

About survival

The 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer has risen to 7.3%, in the UK. Though it may seem small, after almost five decades without a meaningful increase in survival, we are beginning to see a slow but positive trend upwards. 

In 2010, when Pancreatic Cancer Action was founded, survival was around 3% and had not increased in years. We are beginning to make inroads into the disease, so more people can survive for longer. 

However, pancreatic cancer still has the lowest 5-year survival rate of all the 22 most common cancers. This is largely due to late diagnosis. 

Why should I know about pancreatic cancer?

• Twenty-nine people are newly diagnosed with the disease each day. 
• For those diagnosed in time for surgery, their chances of surviving beyond five years increases by up to 30%. Knowing the signs and symptoms means you can act on any concerns you might have, sooner. 
• Over 50% of all patients are diagnosed as an emergency in A&E, where it is more likely that the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body. 
• Pancreatic cancer can affect any adult. It occurs equally in men and women. 
• The disease receives only 3.1% of cancer research funding. 
• Pancreatic cancer is the UK’s 5th biggest cancer killer. 
• In most cases, it can develop unexpectedly with no family connections to the disease.