Author: Medical Editor Jasmine
What are the advantages and latest advances in pancreatic cancer treatment in the U.S.?
Leading hospitals and experts in the U.S. for pancreatic cancer treatment
Remote second opinions for Asian pancreatic cancer patients from U.S. experts
Seeking treatment in the U.S.: New hope for pancreatic cancer patients
Medebound HEALTH: Connecting you to top global medical resources
What is Pancreatic Cancer and How Common Is It?
Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive cancer that originates in the pancreas, an organ crucial for digestion and blood sugar regulation. Due to its subtle early symptoms, it is often diagnosed only at an advanced stage, earning it the nickname "the silent killer." Globally, there are approximately 495,000 new cases of pancreatic cancer each year, making it the seventh leading cause of cancer-related deaths. In the United States, it is estimated that around 66,000 new cases of pancreatic cancer will be diagnosed in 2024.
How is Pancreatic Cancer Treated?
The treatment of pancreatic cancer largely depends on the stage of cancer at the time of diagnosis. For early-stage pancreatic cancer, surgery is typically the first choice, with Whipple surgery (pancreaticoduodenectomy) being the most commonly performed procedure. For advanced-stage patients, chemotherapy (such as the FOLFIRINOX regimen or gemcitabine-based chemotherapy) and radiation therapy are the standard treatments.
In recent years, significant advances have been made in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies, which work at the molecular level to inhibit tumor growth. Additionally, palliative care plays a crucial role in alleviating symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients.
Can Pancreatic Cancer Be Cured?
Although the treatment of pancreatic cancer is highly challenging, early detection is crucial for improving treatment outcomes. According to the American Cancer Society's research, the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer patients in the U.S. varies slightly based on the stage, but it generally ranges from 11% to 13%. For patients with localized pancreatic cancer, the five-year survival rate can reach 44% with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. However, for patients with advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer, the five-year survival rate is only between 3% and 16%. While a cure is typically difficult to achieve, emerging therapies continue to offer hope for extending survival and improving the quality of life for patients.
Advantages and Latest Advances in Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in the U.S.
Advantages of U.S. Pancreatic Cancer Treatment
The U.S. stands at the forefront of pancreatic cancer research and treatment, offering cutting-edge medical technology and FDA-approved therapies, while also leading the exploration of innovative therapies and gene-based treatments. Here are some key reasons why choosing the U.S. for pancreatic cancer treatment can be beneficial:
Leading Innovation in Therapies: U.S. medical institutions excel in personalized treatment, offering targeted therapies and genetic testing to tailor treatment plans for patients. Promising new drugs, such as Olaparib (a PARP inhibitor for pancreatic cancer patients with BRCA mutations) and Sotorasib (a targeted drug for KRAS mutations), are bringing new hope for patients with specific genetic mutations.
Breakthroughs in Gene Therapy: With the continued progress of CRISPR gene-editing technologies and new immune therapy clinical trials, the U.S. has made significant breakthroughs in gene therapy, providing new pathways for patients to extend survival and better manage advanced disease.
Comprehensive Care by Expert Teams: Renowned cancer centers in the U.S. bring together multidisciplinary expert teams. Oncologists, surgeons, palliative care specialists, and other experts collaborate to create personalized, comprehensive treatment plans to maximize treatment effectiveness.
Latest Advances in Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in the U.S.
NALIRIFOX (Irinotecan Liposome Injection Combined Therapy)
NALIRIFOX (Irinotecan Liposome Combined Therapy) was officially approved by the FDA in February 2024, becoming a new first-line treatment option for metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma. This combination therapy integrates irinotecan liposome, oxaliplatin, leucovorin, and fluorouracil, administered via intravenous injection. The specific regimen is tailored by oncologists based on the patient's individual condition. Clinical trial results demonstrate that NALIRIFOX has shown excellent results in controlling disease progression, offering new hope for patients with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma who are newly diagnosed and have not yet received advanced treatment.
Bizengri (Zanobrutinib - zbco)
In December 2024, the FDA granted accelerated approval for Bizengri (Zanobrutinib - zbco) for the treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients carrying the NRG1 gene fusion. This drug is administered via intravenous injection at a recommended dose of 750 mg every two weeks, with specific infusion schedules and duration personalized based on the patient's clinical status and treatment response. Clinical trial results show that Bizengri has demonstrated significant efficacy in patients with NRG1 gene fusion in pancreatic cancer, especially in those who had previously undergone systemic treatment but continued to experience disease progression. The response rate reached up to 33%, providing new treatment hope for these difficult-to-treat pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients.
Personalized Cancer Vaccine:
ELI-002 Vaccine ELI-002, an innovative KRAS-targeted cancer treatment vaccine developed by Elicio Therapeutics, is designed to target cancers with KRAS or NRAS gene mutations, including pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Using Elicio's unique AMP (amphiphilic molecule platform) technology, the vaccine delivers KRAS mutation peptides directly to the lymph nodes, training the patient's immune system to accurately recognize and effectively eliminate cancer cells harboring the KRAS mutation. The ELI-002 vaccine aims to trigger a strong and lasting immune response, reducing minimal residual disease (MRD) and preventing early recurrence of cancer.
Currently, the ELI-002 vaccine is in the critical phase of the I/II clinical trial (AMPLIFY-201), showing great potential. Early trial results indicate that the vaccine significantly activates the immune system and demonstrates good safety. As a personalized treatment plan for KRAS-driven cancers, ELI-002 brings new hope for treating this difficult cancer.
High-Dose Vitamin C Therapy High-dose vitamin C therapy is currently in active research. In clinical studies, patients receive high-dose vitamin C via intravenous infusion, with each dose reaching up to 75 grams and administered three times a week to ensure effective therapeutic concentrations in the blood.
A recently published Phase II clinical trial showed that for patients with advanced metastatic pancreatic cancer, the overall survival was significantly extended from 8 months to 16 months after receiving high-dose vitamin C combined with standard chemotherapy. Additionally, progression-free survival was also extended, from 4 months to 6 months.
This emerging therapy primarily targets patients with advanced metastatic pancreatic cancer, particularly those who wish to enhance the efficacy of standard chemotherapy through adjuvant therapies.
Leading Hospitals and Experts in Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in the U.S.
The United States is home to several leading hospitals and experts in the treatment of pancreatic cancer:
MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas
Status: One of the top cancer treatment institutions in the U.S., globally recognized for its cancer research and clinical care.
Features: MD Anderson offers advanced surgical, radiation, and chemotherapy techniques, with a strong focus on multidisciplinary treatment for pancreatic cancer. The hospital is known for its personalized treatment plans, where each patient is evaluated by a team of specialists to develop the most suitable treatment strategy.
Notable Expert: Dr. Milind Javle, a renowned professor and researcher at MD Anderson Cancer Center, specializes in the treatment and research of pancreatic cancer and cholangiocarcinoma. With over 20 years of clinical experience, he is an expert in precision medicine, clinical trial design, and the development of targeted therapies. Dr. Javle has led several clinical trials targeting specific genetic mutations in pancreatic cancer and has explored the potential of CAR-T cell therapy in pancreatic cancer. He emphasizes multidisciplinary care, combining surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted drugs to offer personalized treatment plans. His research achievements have been widely presented at international conferences, and he has received numerous oncology research awards. Dr. Javle is dedicated to providing innovative treatment options and advancing the field of pancreatic cancer treatment.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC)
Status: One of the most prestigious cancer specialty hospitals in the U.S.
Features: MSKCC has a strong research foundation in pancreatic cancer treatment, particularly in clinical trials and innovative therapies. The hospital offers a range of treatment options, from conventional surgery to the latest immunotherapy and gene therapy, aiming to improve the prognosis of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.
Notable Expert: Dr. Jeffrey Drebin, the Director of Surgery at MSKCC, leads a team that has achieved significant outcomes in complex pancreatic cancer surgeries and personalized treatment plans.
Mayo Clinic
Status: Frequently ranked as one of the best hospitals in the U.S., Mayo Clinic is a leader in pancreatic cancer treatment globally.
Features: Mayo Clinic offers an integrated approach to treatment, including early detection, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. Notably, the hospital has extensive experience in Whipple surgery (pancreaticoduodenectomy), a procedure that significantly improves survival rates for pancreatic cancer patients.
Notable Expert: Dr. Mark Truty, a surgical oncologist at Mayo Clinic, has vast experience in the surgical treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Cost of Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in the U.S.
In the U.S., the cost of pancreatic cancer treatment varies significantly depending on the type of treatment and the stage of the disease. Below are the approximate costs for various treatments:
Surgical costs: Surgeries such as the Whipple procedure cost between $50,000 to $100,000 or more.
Chemotherapy costs: Each chemotherapy cycle costs between $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the medications used.
Radiation therapy costs: The total cost of a radiation therapy course ranges between $10,000 to $25,000.
Clinical trial costs: Costs vary, and some clinical trials may offer partial or full funding.
Palliative care costs: The annual cost of palliative care is approximately $5,000 to $15,000.
Although treatment costs in the U.S. can be quite expensive, many medical institutions offer financial assistance programs, and international patients often have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials at a lower cost.
Pain Points for International Pancreatic Cancer Patients
For families facing a serious diagnosis, accessing advanced therapies in the U.S. often feels out of reach.
Challenge 1: Difficulty in Choosing Treatment Options
Patients may lack understanding of various treatment options (such as drugs or surgery), making it difficult to make informed decisions.
Challenge 2: High Medical Costs
Pancreatic cancer often requires long-term treatment, leading to significant financial strain for patients. This does not include travel, accommodation, and living expenses. Additionally, 95% of international patients lack insurance to cover these costs.
Challenge 3: Language and Cultural Barriers
International patients may face challenges with language and cultural differences when seeking treatment abroad, affecting the effectiveness of care.
Challenge 4: Need for Long-Term Stay in the U.S. or Frequent Travel Between Countries
Pancreatic cancer treatment is a long-term process, and temporary remission does not mean long-term relief. For some patients, traveling to the U.S. may mean staying in the country for an extended period or constantly traveling between two countries.
So, is there a way to help patients reduce their burden?
Yes, indeed there is.
Asian Pancreatic Cancer Patient Receives Remote Second Opinion from U.S. Expert
A 55-year-old Asian woman was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer in 2021, which had already metastasized to the lungs. She underwent robotic minimally invasive surgery and multiple chemotherapy regimens locally, but her condition continued to worsen. Upon learning about advanced pancreatic cancer treatments available in the U.S., she decided to seek new treatment opportunities and hoped to participate in a clinical trial for pancreatic cancer at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
To achieve this, the patient and her family contacted MEDEBOUND HEALTH, a cross-border medical service provider with 9 years of experience in overseas medical services and a 95% patient satisfaction rate.
Through this institution, they successfully arranged a remote consultation with Dr. Javle, the Director of the Gastrointestinal Oncology Department and pancreatic cancer expert at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
In the consultation, Dr. Javle conducted a thorough evaluation of the patient's condition and conveyed a positive message: patients with lung metastasis generally have a better prognosis compared to other pancreatic cancer patients. He stated that the current treatment plan is relatively stable, while also introducing several important clinical trials for pancreatic cancer based on the patient's needs. These trials involve KRAS G12D mutation drugs, MEK inhibitors, and immunotherapy, among other treatment options. While some trials may have long waiting times, Dr. Javle believes they are still worth waiting for.
Additionally, Dr. Javle mentioned the latest personalized vaccine clinical trials, but noted that these are primarily for post-surgical maintenance rather than for patients in the active disease phase. He suggested that the patient consider looking for clinical trials in neighboring countries such as China, Singapore, Japan, or South Korea.
This consultation provided the patient with comprehensive, authoritative information on pancreatic cancer treatment and clinical trial recommendations. Dr. Javle also committed to assisting the patient in coordinating appropriate clinical trials when traveling to the U.S. for treatment and would act as their primary physician. After the consultation, he promised to quickly research additional clinical trials and provide a report within a day.
Through MEDEBOUND HEALTH’s professional coordination, the patient and their family received valuable medical information and expert advice, which provided strong support for their future treatment journey in the U.S.
Seeking Treatment in the U.S.: A New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients
After deciding to seek treatment in the U.S., MEDEBOUND HEALTH assisted the patient with visa procedures and arranged the travel itinerary.
Upon the patient's arrival in the U.S., MEDEBOUND HEALTH provided airport pickup services, ensuring the patient arrived safely at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
MEDEBOUND HEALTH tailored a professional companion service for the patient, assisting her throughout the entire process to ensure efficient communication with MD Anderson Cancer Center and smooth treatment procedures.
Upon arrival at MD Anderson, the patient underwent a series of comprehensive physical examinations, closely following the expert recommendations obtained through the previous remote consultation, laying the foundation for participation in the upcoming clinical trial.
After completing the necessary tests, the patient successfully joined a personalized clinical trial at MD Anderson Cancer Center targeting her KRAS G12V gene mutation. Following treatment, her condition was significantly controlled, and her prognosis improved, for which both she and her family were deeply grateful.
How Medebound HEALTH Supports You:
1. Initial Consultation: Connect with us to discover your needs. Our dedicated care team will concisely outline all treatment options, ensuring you understand each choice without feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
2. Doctor Consultation: We'll arrange a remote video consultation with an expert from a prestigious U.S. hospital. Language barriers are no issue, as we provide professional translation services to facilitate clear and comfortable communication between you and the doctor about your condition and recovery goals.
3. Tailored Treatment Plan: Following the doctor's consultation, we'll help you devise a personalized treatment plan. We'll clearly explain which treatments may be advantageous for you, the duration of treatment, associated costs, and expected outcomes.
4. Travel Facilitation: If traveling to the U.S. for treatment is necessary, we'll streamline the process for you. We'll handle visa applications, flight bookings, accommodations near the hospital, airport transfers, and all travel arrangements for your family.
5.Hospital Arrival Support: Upon arrival at the U.S. hospital, our team will be there to guide you through every step. We'll assist with doctor communication, explain treatment plans, support your family, and leverage our years of partnership with U.S. hospitals to secure the maximum discount for you, which can sometimes reach 15%-50%—far surpassing the discounts patients can typically negotiate on their own.
6. Ongoing Recovery Support: Even after returning home, our care continues. We'll support your rehabilitation efforts, monitor your recovery progress, arrange follow-up doctor consultations as needed, and be with you every step of the way until you achieve your recovery goals.
Medebound HEALTH: Connecting You to the World's Top Medical Resources
If you or your family members are seeking world-class treatment for complex conditions, Medebound HEALTH is your best choice. Through our partnerships with top-tier medical institutions in the United States, whether through remote video consultations or traveling to the US for treatment, we provide full support every step of the way.
Contact us:
Website: https://www.medeboundhealth.com/
US Free Hotline/Text: +19173101780
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