Researchers from the Cedars-Sinai clinic report a worrying trend: the rate of pancreatic cancer is growing more rapidly among women than among men. Findings were published in a leading gastroenterology journal and analyzed to understand how incidence has changed over time.
The analysis used data from the National Cancer Registry database covering patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer between 2001 and 2018. The results show that pancreatic cancer has become more common in both sexes, but the increase is not equal. Women showed a steeper rise in new cases compared with men during this period, signaling important shifts in the cancer landscape.
Among younger adults, the pattern is notable. In women under 55, the incidence rose by a margin of 2.4 percent more than in similarly aged men. Even with this disparity, pancreatic cancer remains more prevalent in men overall, but the gap appears to be narrowing in certain age groups and may widen the future burden on women as well.
Experts emphasize that while the difference in rate is relatively small on a year-to-year basis, it could translate into a larger share of cases among women in the years ahead. This potential shift warrants attention from clinicians and public health officials as screening and prevention strategies evolve.
Pancreatic cancer continues to carry a high mortality rate, contributing to about 3 percent of all cancer deaths in the United States. Although survival has improved gradually over time, the gains have been more pronounced for men, underscoring gender differences in outcomes and the need for ongoing research and targeted interventions.
Researchers outline practical steps to reduce risk and promote early detection. Key measures include quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and following a balanced diet. People who notice unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal discomfort, dark urine, pale stools, or yellowing of the skin or eyes should seek medical evaluation promptly, as these can be signs of pancreatic cancer or other serious health issues.
Public health messaging also highlights the importance of risk awareness across populations. While genetics and environmental factors play roles, lifestyle choices remain a critical tool in lowering overall risk and improving long-term health outcomes for individuals and communities.