Pancreatic Cancer Overview

The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach. It is about six to ten inches long and two inches wide. It has two functions – exocrine and endocrine.

• The exocrine function makes chemicals that break down protein, and it delivers these chemicals right into the digestive tract. Most of the pancreas is devoted to this function, and tumors are more likely located here.
• A smaller part of the pancreas is devoted to the endocrine function, which makes insulin and glucagon. The pancreas puts insulin and glucagon directly into your bloodstream to help your body burn or store sugar. Cancers in this area are very rare.

Pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect and treat, although new treatments show some promise. The University of Kansas Cancer Center offers comprehensive services for the screening, diagnosis, treatment and support of people with pancreatic cancer.

Why You Should Choose The University of Kansas Cancer Center

Gastrointestinal cancer (GI cancer) specialists at The University of Kansas Cancer Center are at the forefront of discovering new treatments for pancreatic cancer that improve patients' lives.

Care Coordination
These specialists, including medical oncologists, gastroenterologists and surgeons, have years of experience treating hundreds of patients with pancreatic cancer. They meet weekly to discuss specific cases. Together, this team of experts will review your case and develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

Academic Approach
Because we are an academic center, we offer some of the region's most advanced cancer treatments. We are constantly finding new treatments to lengthen survival and improve lives. We use state-of-the-art techniques and technologies to improve patient outcomes and reduce side effects. And we work side by side with pharmaceutical companies to help you get access to the medicines you need.

Community
Our staff also are accustomed to working with community health care providers. In many cases, you can receive some of your treatment near your own home in coordination with the staff at The University of Kansas Cancer Center.

Clinical Trials
We are part of many national clinical trials on cancer treatment. So, you benefit from our staff’s exposure to the latest options. You also may be able to take part in a clinical trial for pancreatic cancer during your treatment.

To Make an Appointment:
Call: 913.588.1227
Toll free call: 800.332.6048

Referring Physicians:
Call: 913.588.5862
Toll free call: 877.588.5862