Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma or PDAC is a highly aggressive cancer that originates in the cells that line the small ducts of the pancreas (duct cells). It is highly difficult to detect the cancer in its early stages, often leading to a poor prognosis for patients. With an average 5-year survival rate of less than 10%, PDAC is currently the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. However, due to its rising incidence and poor prognosis, it is expected to become the second leading cause of death within the next decade, according to the NIH.
PDAC accounts for 90% of all pancreatic cancers. Gemcitabine is considered the cornerstone of treatment for PDAC at all stages. However, the majority of patients eventually develop resistance to this chemotherapy drug.
For comments and feedback: editorial@rttnews.com