Local communities raise awareness across the country about pancreatic cancer risks.
Based on the statistics, over 41,000 people will most likely die of pancreatic cancer across the country in 2016. More precisely, pancreatic cancer ranks third among the deadliest forms of cancer in the US.
CoxHealth officials encourage all residents to raise awareness by lighting free luminaria candles on the 17th of November, which is the World Pancreatic Cancer Day. During the luminaria ceremony, participants will light purple candles in the memory of the people who lost the fight and to celebrate cancer fighters and survivors.
Those who want to participate in the event can get free luminaries from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this Friday at the Hulston Cancer Center, 3850 South National Avenue, Springfield. According to Autumn Bragg, CoxHealth oncology educator, ‘Pancreatic cancer is a silent killer as there’s no recommended screening for it.’
He further adds that awareness is vital because if local organizations and communities join their forces, many people across the United States will understand that this disease shouldn’t be ignored.
Pancreatic cancer usually goes undetected as symptoms occur rarely. Therefore, doctors can misdiagnose this condition, which kills more people than breast cancer throughout the country. It is worth mentioning that the 5-year median survival rates are only eight percent.
Bragg stresses that this event aims to inform and educate many local communities across the United States. Residents can find out more about the pancreatic cancer aid and free luminaries at 417-269-5224. During the event, people will gather together to share their stories and inspire each other.
It is not known yet whether the speech will be held by a cancer survivor or by one of the CoxHealth officials. Experts underline that no cancer fighter should feel alone in this battle. These annual events aim to bring people together because they can learn from each other.
Pancreatic cancer is not always deadly when it’s detected early. Although signs usually appear after the development of the disease, common symptoms include lymph nodes in the neck, back pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, itching, light stool color, jaundice (or yellow skin), and weight loss.
People are advised to improve their lifestyle by adopting healthier dietary habits. Also, they should always discuss with their doctors to make sure they are well informed about the risks of pancreatic cancer.
Image Source: EPM Magazine
