Black Americans at Increased Risk for Pancreatic Cancer – Pancreatic Cancer Action Network

Spark the scientific breakthroughs that innovate treatments to improve the lives of patients.
Fund a research grant today.
Call (877) 272-6226, email info@pancan.org or
by Allison Rosenzweig, PhD — Jun 16, 2025

Black Americans are more likely to get pancreatic cancer than any other racial or ethnic group. They have the highest incidence rate of pancreatic cancer in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute SEER data.
While more research is needed to understand the exact reason why this disparity exists, some studies have shown that systemic racism, the environment, access to nutritious food and barriers to quality healthcare may play a role. Certain risk factors for pancreatic cancer, like diabetes, obesity and smoking rates, are also higher in the Black community.
People at higher risk should listen carefully to their bodies, be aware of any symptoms that are out of the ordinary and openly communicate with their healthcare team. Some examples of pancreatic cancer symptoms include back or stomach pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice and digestive challenges.
Considering clinical trials is particularly important for patients with pancreatic cancer who are part of an ethnic or racial minority group.
People with pancreatic cancer who participate in clinical research have better outcomes, and every treatment available today was approved through a clinical trial. PanCAN strongly recommends clinical trials at diagnosis and during every treatment decision.
Despite comprising nearly 14% of the U.S. population, Black Americans make up only 5-7% of cancer clinical trial participants.
In the fight against pancreatic cancer, clinical trials often provide the best treatment options. They give patients early access to leading-edge investigational treatments that can lead to progress in research, improved treatment options and better outcomes. Without increased enrollment, it is very challenging to approve new and better treatment options.
When clinical trials lack racial and ethnic diversity, trial results may not apply to all types of patients. Research has shown that increased diversity in clinical trials could help researchers find better ways to fight diseases that disproportionately impact certain populations.
Join us by spreading awareness about the risk factors and symptoms of pancreatic cancer as well as the critical role of patient participation in clinical trials across all ethnic and racial groups.
7 Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms and Signs You Should Know
FDA Approves New Treatment for PNETs: What You Need to Know
FDA Approves New First-line Treatment Option for Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: What You Need to Know
11 Easy-to-Digest Foods
Stride With a Purpose at PanCAN PurpleStride 2025!
Black Americans at Increased Risk for Pancreatic Cancer
The Current State of Federal Funding for Pancreatic Cancer Research: A Call to Action
“There Isn’t a World Where Cancer Deserves to Be Credited With Victory.”
Processing Grief, Coping With Loss: PanCAN Patient Services Offers Resources
Caring for Caregivers: Patient Services is Here to Help
No one should face pancreatic cancer alone. Learn how we can support you.
Mon – Fri, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. PST

You can also contact us using the below form.

Follow us on social media.
Get the latest news and updates from the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
2101 Rosecrans Ave, Suite 3200
El Segundo, CA 90245 – Map
Phone: (310) 725-0025
Toll Free: (877) 573-9971
Fax: (310) 725-0029
Email: info@pancan.org
Mail Donations to:
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
Donation Processing Center
Po Box 5041
Boone, IA 50950-0041
Gear, apparel, accessories and more to show off your purple pride.
Get Our Latest News!
©2025 Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. All rights reserved. Terms of Use | Privacy Policy
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network®, PanCAN®, PurpleStride®, Wage Hope®, Know Your Tumor®, Powerful Knowledge. Personal Treatment.®, Precision Promise℠ and Demand Better For Patients. For Survival.℠ are the trademarks of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc.
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is registered as a 501©3 nonprofit organization. Contributions to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network’s tax identification number is #33-0841281.