Trends in the clinical presentation, treatment, and survival for pancreatic adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND: We assessed trends in the clinical presentation, treatment, and survival for pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

METHODS: A retrospective cohort study using data from the SEER program (2004-2014). All patients diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma over 2 eras were included (A: 2004-2009 vs. B: 2010-2014). Outcomes of interest were the likelihood of metastatic disease at diagnosis, utilization of resection, and overall survival.

RESULTS: A total of 62,201 patients were included in this study [Era B - 31,998 (51.4%)]. Patients diagnosed in Era B were significantly less likely to have metastatic pancreatic cancer at diagnosis, and demonstrated improved long-term survival after risk-adjustment. Similarly, patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer that were diagnosed in Era B were independently more likely to undergo resection. The observed association between era of diagnosis and survival was independent of resection status and the presence of metastatic disease.

CONCLUSIONS: There have been significant improvements in pancreatic cancer care over the last decade, as evidenced by earlier diagnosis, increased utilization of surgery, and improvement in overall survival for both resected and un-resected patients.