The Green Party of Canada would like to mark the launch of the first-ever World Pancreatic Cancer Day in Ottawa by reflecting on pancreatic cancer victims and to those the disease has claimed.
Often called ‘the silent killer’, pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in Canada and typically affects individuals over the age of 50. Pancreatic cancer has one of the lowest survival rates of any cancer and the rate has barely changed in more than 40 years.
“I commend Pancreatic Cancer Canada for their efforts to ensure that the vital research necessary to treat victims of pancreatic cancer continues,” said Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada and Member of Parliament for Saanich-Gulf Islands. “I am confident that as we learn more about this disease we will reverse the low survival rates.”
Since the symptoms are either absent or difficult to notice, the disease is often incurable by the time it is diagnosed. The Canadian Cancer Society predicts that in Canada alone, 4700 new cases of pancreatic cancer will have been diagnosed in 2014.
There will be a candlelight vigil hosted by Pancreatic Cancer Canada in Ottawa to honour survivors and remember those who passed away. Purple candles and purple glow-sticks will be available at the event.
For more information on pancreatic cancer visit: Pancreatic Cancer Canada