Pancreatic Cancer Resection Rates Are Low and Vary by Country

Pancreatic cancer remains a dreaded diagnosis. While oncologic and endoscopic treatments can improve symptoms and prolong life, only surgery can cure pancreatic cancer. A recent large international study of surgical resection rates in pancreatic cancer was undertaken to assess how frequently surgery was actually performed in these patients.

Data on nearly 150,000 patients obtained from population-based cancer registries in six European countries and the U.S. show resection rates of between 13% and 21% during 2012 to 2014. Resection rates in early-stage tumors varied tremendously, from 35% (Norway) to 69% (Denmark). Between the periods 2003–2004 and 2013–2014, resection rates increased only in the Netherlands, the U.S., and Denmark. Older age…