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Pancreatic Cancer and the Black Community
Black Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer than any other racial or ethnic group.
While more research is needed to understand the exact reason why this disparity exists, some studies have shown that systemic racism, the environment, access to nutritious food and barriers to quality healthcare may play a role. Certain risk factors for pancreatic cancer, like diabetes, obesity and smoking rates, are also higher in the Black community. Take action by understanding risk, knowing symptoms and advocating for yourself and your community.
How You Can Take Action
For Patients
For Family Members
Get Involved With PanCAN
Our advocates work year-round to power progress because together, we're a catalyst for change. Become an advocate.
Best way to get started?
PanCAN Patient Services is here for you by offering free, one-to-one support as well as tools and resources to help manage risk, find specialists, advocate for yourself and loved ones and more.
Know the Risk Factors
Certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of getting pancreatic cancer. They include:
Family History
Inherited Genetic Mutations
Diabetes
Smoking
Race (Ethnicity)
Obesity
Pancreatitis
Older Age
Diet
Alcohol
Chemical and Heavy Metal Exposure
Gum Disease
Know the Symptoms
Pancreatic cancer may cause only vague symptoms that could be confused with many other abdominal or gastrointestinal issues. It’s important to listen to your body and talk to your doctor about pancreatic cancer if you experience any of the following warning signs.
Educational Videos
Talk to a Doctor: Pancreatic Cancer Awareness in the Black Community
Marcus Noel, MD, fields questions on personal and family risk, the importance of self-advocacy, disparities facing the Black community and more.
Watch our webinar.Original Air Date: June 27, 2024
A Conversation about Pancreatic Cancer in the Black Community
Be inspired by stories about the power of patient advocacy and hear about progress in addressing racial inequities as related to pancreatic cancer.
Watch our webinar.Original Air Date: February 23, 2023
Let’s Talk About: Pancreatic Cancer in the Black Community
Members of the Black community talk about how to access treatment options and clinical trials, the importance of genetic and biomarker testing and more.
Watch our webinar.Original Air Date: June 22, 2022
PanCAN Health Equity Committee
The purpose of PanCAN’s Health Equity Committee is to eliminate health disparities and advance health equity for those impacted by pancreatic cancer. Members bring expertise from different sectors – including finance, science and medicine, media and religion. This diversity in experience is intentional, as every person’s unique viewpoint and expertise adds to the conversation. Meet PanCAN’s Health Equity Committee.
For free personalized information about pancreatic cancer, contact PanCAN Patient Services. And download our comprehensive Overview of Pancreatic Cancer booklet.
Thank you to our Leading National Partner
Thank you to our National Partner
