Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic Cancer Care at UVM Cancer Center

Pancreatic cancer begins in the pancreas, an organ that helps with digestion and blood sugar control. This cancer is often difficult to detect early because symptoms may not appear until after the disease has progressed.

Why Choose UVM Health?

At University of Vermont Health, our academic medical teams provide advanced, evidence-based care for patients across Vermont and northern New York. Our specialists work closely together to deliver coordinated, compassionate treatment close to home. We offer:

Expert, multidisciplinary team: Your care is led by our collaborative group of specialists including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists. Together, we develop a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.
Innovation: We participate in national cancer research networks and clinical trials that offer additional care options.
Minimally invasive procedures: When appropriate, surgeons may use robotic-assisted techniques to remove cancer through small incisions. These procedures typically result in faster recovery, less pain and fewer complications.
Patient-first philosophy: Your treatment plan reflects your needs and goals. Supportive services, including cancer rehabilitation, mental health counseling and integrative therapies like yoga and acupuncture, are available to enhance your well-being throughout treatment.

Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms

Pancreatic cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. Symptoms include:

Abdominal or back pain
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Nausea or vomiting
Changes in stool, including pale or greasy stools
New-onset diabetes or sudden changes in blood sugar control

Diagnosing Pancreatic Cancer

Common tests used to diagnose pancreatic cancer include:

Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI or endoscopic ultrasound to look for tumors
Blood tests: To check for tumor markers
Endoscopic procedures: A thin, flexible tube may be used to take images or tissue samples
Biopsy: A small tissue sample is examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis

Cancer Care

Clinical Trials

The UVM Cancer Center supports more than 100 active clinical trials focused on prevention, screening, treatment, supportive care and survivorship.

View open trials

Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

Treatment plans depend on the cancer stage, the location of the tumor and your overall health. At UVM Health, specialists in surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care collaborate to build a personalized plan.

Treatment options include:

Surgery: Removing the tumor when possible, offering the best chance for long-term control
Chemotherapy: Medications that destroy cancer cells or slow their growth
Radiation therapy: High energy radiation used to destroy cancer cells and reduce the likelihood of recurrence
Targeted therapies: Medication that target specific gene changes in cancer cells
Immunotherapy: Treatment that helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells
Supportive care: Nutrition counseling, symptom management, emotional support, and coordination across all UVM Health locations