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Pancreatic Cancer - Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the pancreas and what is its function?

Link to... What is cancer of the pancreas?
Link to... What are the causes and symptoms of pancreatic cancer?
Link to... How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?
Link to... How is pancreatic cancer treated?
Link to... Are there any side effects from chemotherapy or radiation therapy?
Link to... When is surgery a treatment option?
Link to... What about nutrition?
Link to... What happens after surgery?
What if the tumor cannot be removed by surgery?
Link to... How can I learn to live with cancer of the pancreas?
Diagnosis and Treatment
Clinical Studies
Who are the Pancreatic Tumor Study Group specialists?
How to refer a patient for evaluation
Pancreas Cancer Survivors
From Bench to Bedside: Basic Science Research
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What if the tumor cannot
be removed by surgery?



If a tumor has spread beyond the pancreas, surgery will not be helpful. The best treatment for pancreatic cancer that has spread (metastasized) is chemotherapy.

Some patients are able to take part in studies, called clinical trials, that test new treatments. These treatments may include new chemotherapy drugs or new combinations of different drugs. Click here to visit the Pancreatic Tumor Study Group's Clinical Trials section.

As more effective drugs become available, the treatment options for pancreatic cancer may change. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of various treatment options with you and your family. Ask your doctor any questions you have about the cancer or its treatment so that you will understand and feel comfortable with your treatment decision.

Many people are aware of the statistics regarding life expectancy, or prognosis, for pancreatic cancer. Although statistics can be helpful, they can also be misleading. If you have questions about your prognosis, ask your doctor. Your doctor is the only person who knows enough about your case to discuss this with you.