It's unfortunate that it takes the news that actor Patrick Swayze was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer to bring some attention to this dreadful disease.

For too long, a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer has been seen simply as a death sentence. That's undoubtedly part of the reason why it receives only a small share of federal research funding despite being the fourth leading cancer killer. Yet there are pancreatic cancer survivors throughout New Jersey and across the country.

This year, about 38,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer- including Patrick Swayze and Ronald M. Davis, M.D., president of the American Medical Association. Many of these patients, survivors and their families are finding hope through the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, the only national organization taking a comprehensive approach to finding a cure through research, patient support, community outreach and advocacy.

On Saturday, April 5, 2008, there will be a free Pancreatic Cancer Symposium at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, presented by the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Patients, survivors, caregivers, families and friends will hear from leading pancreatic cancer specialists from Jefferson, Johns HopkinsMedical Institutions, University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and the University of Texas Southwestern. This educational event is an opportunity to learn more about pancreatic cancer, diagnostics, treatment options, nutrition and genetics.

The event is free, but registration is required- online at www.pancan.org/philsymp08/ or call tollfree 877-272-6226.

My father, Richard, lost his life to this disease nearly six years ago, which is why I volunteer with the Pancreatic CancerAction Network. This united effort is making a difference as dedicated researchers, clinicians and volunteers work together to provide a better outcome for Patrick Swayze and all those affected by pancreatic cancer.
Todd Cohen
Edison