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Cancer Blog

By Lisa Fayed, About.com Guide to Cancer since 2005

Supreme Court Justice Ginsburg Treated for Pancreatic Cancer

Thursday February 5, 2009
Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has undergone surgery to treat pancreatic cancer today. The Supreme Court issued a statement today revealing that the cancer was detected at a very early stage, measuring at about 1cm across the pancreas. She is expected to remain in the hospital at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for at least the next seven days.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg is no stranger to cancer. She is also a colon cancer survivor. There is no word yet her on expected prognosis, however, when detected early, pancreatic cancer is treatable in many cases.

What You Need to Know About Pancreatic Cancer

I hope each of you take the time to learn about this devastating cancer, in hopes to raise awareness for yourself and those around you. People aren't as knowledgeable about pancreatic cancer as breast or prostate cancer, but it is just as a debilitating disease.

Unfortunately, there is often a delay in diagnosing pancreatic cancer because pancreatic cancer symptoms are similar to those of many other illnesses.

There are several risk factors for pancreatic cancer, including having diabetes and chronic pancreatitis. If you are at risk for pancreatic cancer, talk to your doctor about your risk factor and how to monitor for pancreatic cancer if needed. Keep in mind though that some people with pancreatic cancer do not have any clear risk factor or symptoms of the disease.

The bottom line is that if you are experiencing any pancreatic cancer symptoms, or anything unusual, see a doctor. Early detection is key with any condition!

  • What is Pancreatic Cancer?
  • Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
  • Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer

  • A Journey with Pancreatic Cancer

    Pancreatic cancer is not easy on anyone - it's takes such a physical and mental toll not only on the patient, but the family members as well. Guest author, Alison Doyle, (About's Job Searching Guide) speaks of her experience with pancreatic cancer in "Without Hope, We Have Nothing", a firsthand account about her father's battle with pancreatic cancer.

    Photo courtesy of A.D.A.M. Health Encyclopedia

    Comments

    February 11, 2009 at 5:58 pm
    (1) Lisa Fischer says:

    How can I, or anyone else who is concerned about her, send her an encouraging card or letter? Is there an address at the Supreme Court or…?

    Thanks.

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