PORTLAND, Maine — If you see a lot more purple this month, it's likely in honor of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. To this day, it's a form of cancer with just a 12 percent survival rate, according to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, or PAN CAN.
Knowing symptoms and risk factors can be important. According to PAN CAN, some of the symptoms can include:
- Pain in the abdomen or back
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Jaundice (a yellowing of the eyes or skin)
- A change in stool
- Nausea
- Pancreatitis
- New-onset diabetes
You can learn a lot more on PAN CAN's website, where you'll also find a quiz you can take to learn about your own risk.
PAN CAN also suggests seven steps to take to reduce your risk for pancreatic cancer:
- Knowing the symptoms
- Making healthy food choices, like fruits and vegetables to get vitamins and minerals that help reduce your risk for cancer
- Moving through regular physical activity
- Limiting your alcohol intake, though occasional drinks are fine
- Cutting off any use of tobacco products
- Being mindful of your weight
- Learning your family history and getting an annual check-up
You can find more information here.