This Friday, November 13, is the World Day of Pancreas Cancer. It is sometimes considered a silent killer due to symptoms that can be confused with other pathologies. Here are the myths that need to be clarified.
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13/11/2026
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O World Pancreas Cancer Day is on Friday, November 13. This cancer is often designated silent killer due to symptoms that may be confused with other pathologies. Know some of the myths that need to be clarified.
The Pancreatic Cancer Action website has revealed some of the myths that should stop believing. They are often widespread ideas about this disease that are not the most correct.
In this way, it is important to clarify and know what is at stake. “Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a time of stress for patients, friends and family members. Statistics on pancreatic cancer, in particular, can cause anxiety, and internet research often leads to incorrect information that can generate even more concern,” they reveal on the Pancreatic Cancer Action website. Here are the myths you have to stop believing.
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Pancreatic cancer. Stop believing these myths
Pancreatic cancer is a silent killer
The explanation: “ This is a very common wrong idea, fueled by the lack of knowledge of the signs and symptoms of the disease. There are signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer that may seem vague and sometimes overlap with other diseases. It may be easy to ignore indigestion, back pain and weight loss, but knowing that these are symptoms of pancreatic cancer can save lives. The recommendation is that if you have one or more of these persistent and unusual symptoms, consult your doctor.”
Pancreatic cancer is always fatal
The explanation: “Pacreatic cancer can be treated with surgery if diagnosed early. In other words, if there are no signs that the tumor has spread beyond the pancreas and is in health condition to undergo surgery, your doctors may choose to remove the tumor.”
Pancreatic cancer affects only men
The explanation: “The cancer of the pancreas affects both men and women equally. All have a pancreas, whose main function is to help digest food, and to use and store its energy. It's located inside the body, behind the stomach and in front of the spine. The estimated lifetime risk of contracting pancreatic cancer is relatively low, from 1 in 73 for men and 1 in 74 for women.”
Pancreatic cancer affects only elderly people
The explanation: “The probability of developing pancreatic cancer increases with age, which is the highest risk factor. The mean age of diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is 72 years. However, there is evidence to show that people of all ages can be diagnosed with this type of cancer.”