Is Pancreatic Cancer Curable At Stage 4?
Pancreatic cancer at stage 4 is considered to be advanced and has spread to other parts of the body, which makes it challenging to treat. In most cases, cure is not possible at this stage, but treatment can help to control the disease and manage symptoms.
Stage 4 pancreatic cancer prognosis
The stage 4 diagnosis often raises concerns and questions about what to expect and how to cope with pancreatic cancer. The prognosis at this stage varies depending on several factors, including age, overall health, and response to treatment. However, as it is considered an advanced stage of the disease, the survival rate for stage 4 pancreatic cancer is around 1% for 3 years or more after diagnosis.
It’s important to keep in mind that every person’s experience with pancreatic cancer is unique and the prognosis can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances.
Pancreatic cancer treatment at stage 4
Despite the challenges, there are still treatments available for stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Treatment is typically aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life, rather than curing the disease. The specific treatment plan will depend on individual circumstances, such as the patient’s age, overall health, and the location and size of the tumour. Common treatments for stage 4 pancreatic cancer include:
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a common treatment for stage 4 pancreatic cancer, and can be used to slow the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. Chemotherapy drugs are usually given intravenously and can help to shrink the size of the tumour and control the spread of cancer to other parts of the body.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink the size of tumours. Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy to manage symptoms of the disease.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a newer type of cancer treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight the disease. This approach has shown promise in some patients with stage 4 pancreatic cancer and may be used in combination with other treatments.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgical removal of the tumour may be an option for stage 4 pancreatic cancer, particularly if the cancer has not spread widely to other parts of the body.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, it’s important to work with a team of professionals experienced in treating this complex disease. The Birmingham HPB consultants team specialises in treating patients with pancreatic cancer and are dedicated to providing the highest level of care.
If you’re looking for an experienced team to help guide you through your treatment journey or want a second opinion for your diagnosis, don’t hesitate to contact us on 07508747723.