PanCAN

Description

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. (PanCAN), established in 1999, is the first national patient advocacy organization for the pancreatic cancer community. PanCAN works to focus national attention on the need to find a cure for pancreatic cancer. PanCAN provides public and professional education embracing the urgent need for more research, effective treatments, prevention programs and early detection methods. PanCAN also funds research grants for pancreatic cancer, as well as providing patient services. Volunteers across the country help PanCAN accomplish their goals.

Pancreatic cancer is the 4th leading cause of cancer death in the US. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) spent a mere 1% of the NCI's cancer research budget in 2005. Despite the especially lethal nature of pancreatic cancer, the research spending per pancreatic cancer patient is the lowest of any leading cancer. No effective early detection methods have been developed and there are minimal treatment options. Very little research is under way due to limited research funding. Through PanCAN's advocacy efforts with the federal government, the annual research funding for pancreatic cancer has increased by $48.5 million dollars.