This month, with so many global issues in front of us, I want to remind everyone that November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. Pancreatic cancer has been in the national consciousness this year, in part due to well-known figures who have been affected, but we also draw greater awareness to the disease through Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, to urge private and public agencies to extend more funding to study this disease and help researchers search for a cure and improve the lives of those affected. This year, over 56,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and many more around the world will be affected. Recognition of the growing prevalence of pancreatic cancer, with the help of foundations and organizations like the Pancreatobiliary Pathology Society, can help direct resources towards research and clinical care efforts. Thursday, November 19 is World Pancreatic Cancer Day – an even more focused opportunity to recognize this disease and the numerous efforts to improve the care of those affected. Please remember to “wear purple” and spread the word that we are redoubling our efforts, so that the impetus to address pancreatic cancer is also felt throughout the year and reflected in renewed energy and enthusiasm for research collaboration and knowledge sharing. Pancreatobiliary pathologists are charged with establishing the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, and surely we should be leading advocacy efforts as well!
David Klimstra, President
Pancreatobiliary Pathology Society