Why Is Pancreatic Cancer So Deadly?

As we're sure you've heard, actor Patrick Swayze was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and, according to the National Enquirer, given 5 weeks to live.

So, why is pancreatic cancer so deadly?

Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, killing more than 95 percent of people diagnosed with it -- usually within six months of diagnosis. There are several reasons why pancreatic cancer treatment is often unsuccessful.

If pancreatic cancer is found early, surgical removal may cure it. But only 15 percent to 20 percent of pancreatic cancers are found in the early stages of the disease. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer often recurs even after surgical removal.

People with pancreatic cancer usually have no symptoms until the disease is in an advanced stage.

Read more on pancreatic cancer here.

And what exactly is your pancreas?

The pancreas is a gland about 6 inches long that is shaped like a thin pear lying on its side. The wider end of the pancreas is called the head, the middle section is called the body, and the narrow end is called the tail. The pancreas lies behind the stomach and in front of the spine.

The pancreas has two main jobs in the body:

* To produce juices that help digest (break down) food.
* To produce hormones, such as insulin and glucagon, that help control blood sugar levels. Both of these hormones help the body use and store the energy it gets from food.

Read more on your pancreas here.

And most importantly, to watch one of our favorite Patrick Swayze moments, click here.