How is pancreatic cancer treated?

About treatment

Based on the type and stage of your pancreatic cancer, you may need more than one type of treatment. Doctors on your cancer treatment team may include:

• A surgeon: a doctor who uses surgery to treat cancers or other problems
• An endocrinologist: a doctor who treats diseases in glands that produce hormones
• A radiation oncologist: a doctor who uses radiation to treat cancer
• A medical oncologist: a doctor who uses chemotherapy and other medicines to treat cancer

Many other experts may be involved in your care as well; these could include nurse practitioners, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and others.

The main types of treatment for pancreatic cancer are:

• Surgery
• Ablative techniques
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy and other drugs

Some of these treatments may be combined. Pain control is also an important part of treatment for many patients.

It is important to discuss all of your treatment options, including their goals and possible side effects, with your doctors to help make the decision that best fits your needs. It’s also very important to ask questions if there is anything you’re not sure about. You can find some good questions to ask in the section, “What should you ask your doctor about pancreatic cancer?”