PANCREATIC Cancer Awareness Month, which ran throughout November, closed on November 30 with renewed calls for early detection, stronger public education and greater investment in research for one of the world’s deadliest cancers.
Across Zimbabwe and globally, health organisations, advocacy groups and medical professionals used the month to amplify a message that pancreatic cancer is often detected too late, but awareness can save lives.
Cimas Health Group joined the global campaign, emphasising the importance of recognising symptoms early and understanding risk factors.
Speaking on the significance of the month, Cimas Health Group doctor Tatenda Matavire explained that Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month is fundamentally about public education and visibility.
“Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month is about shining a light on pancreatic cancer, raising awareness about the disease and its symptoms,” she said.
Matavire said November was chosen as the dedicated month due to sustained advocacy efforts aimed at drawing attention to a disease that remains both devastating and poorly understood by the general public.
This year’s global theme, “Shine a light: Early detection saves lives”, underscores the life‑saving potential of timely diagnosis. Matavire noted that the theme aims to inspire awareness and action by educating the public about early warning signs and screening options.
“It also empowers patients and their families to seek timely medical intervention. People also host awareness talks, conduct social media campaigns, educational programmes and encourage donations and government funding for research,” she added.
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The message resonated strongly in Zimbabwe, where late presentation remains a major barrier to effective treatment.
Pancreatic cancer is notorious for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. As Matavire highlighted, pancreatic cancer is considered as one of the deadliest forms of cancer because half the number of people diagnosed with it will die within three months.
It has a five-year survival rate of less than 12%.
The statistics are stark, but they also reinforce why awareness campaigns are essential. Early detection dramatically improves outcomes.
“Early detection improves survival rates for pancreatic cancer because the earlier the diagnosis, the better the treatment outcome,” Matavire said.
Although the exact cause of pancreatic cancer remains unclear, several risk factors have been identified.
Matavire explained that genetics play a significant role.
“With regards to family history, people with specific genetic mutations, such as BRCA 1 and BRCA 2, or hereditary conditions, such as Lynch syndrome and hereditary pancreatitis, are at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer,” she said.
Lifestyle factors also contribute to risk, including smoking, obesity, sedentary behaviour and diets high in red or processed meats. One of the biggest challenges is that symptoms often appear only when the disease is advanced.
Matavire named some of the early warning signs that should prompt medical attention.
“The early warning signs and symptoms include persistent abdominal pain radiating to the back, unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine and pale stools, fatigue and weakness, nausea or vomiting and sudden onset of diabetes,” she said.
“Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage because the pancreas is located deep within the abdomen and tumours often go unnoticed.”
For individuals at elevated risk, screening tools are available, though not widely used in routine care.
Matavire explained that screening methods that are available for individuals with an elevated risk of pancreatic cancer include a blood test (CA 19-9 tumour blood marker), endoscopic ultrasound scan, CT scan and MRI.
She added that CT scans and MRIs help in detecting pancreatic cancer as they accurately visualise the pancreas and can pick up tumours.
“Chemotherapy remains a cornerstone of treatment. The treatment options vary depending on the stage at diagnosis. The main options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and palliative care,” Matavire said.
“Surgery is effective in the treatment of early stage pancreatic cancer, which has not spread to other parts of the body.”
Beyond treatment, prevention remains a critical focus.
Lifestyle changes can significantly reduce risk, and Matavire highlighted several evidence‑based recommendations.
“Lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer include quitting smoking and avoiding tobacco products, maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and exercise, eating fibre-rich foods with plenty of fruits and vegetables,” she pointed out.
“Limiting red and processed meats, managing diabetes and chronic pancreatitis with regular medical check-ups and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption is also recommended.”
Matavire said with regards to nutrition, a diet rich in plant-based foods, whole grains and lean proteins contributes to prevention of pancreatic cancer.
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower are associated with a reduced risk due to their fibre, antioxidants and phytochemical content.
Exercise also contributes to prevention by supporting metabolic health. As Matavire explained, regular exercise plays a role in lowering pancreatic cancer risk by helping maintain a healthy weight that improves insulin sensitivity.
This ultimately improves glucose tolerance, reduces inflammation and enhances immunity. As the awareness month concluded, Cimas Health Group reiterated its commitment to public education and early detection.
“Cimas would like everyone to know that while pancreatic cancer is deadly, early detectionsaves lives.
By spreading awareness, supporting research and promoting healthy lifestyles, we can collectively reduce the impact of this devastating disease,” Matavire said.
Although November has ended, the call to action continues. Pancreatic cancer remains a silent but formidable threat and the lessons shared throughout the month serve as a reminder that vigilance, education and healthier living can make a measurable difference.
- The information in this article is provided as a public service by the Cimas iGo Wellness programme, which is designed to promote good health. It is provided for general information only and should not be construed as medical advice. Readers should consult their doctor or clinic on any matter related to their health or the treatment of any health problem. — igo@cimas.co.zw/ WhatsApp: 0772 161 829/ phone 024-2773 0663.
