Myth 1: Pancreatic Cancer is always deadly. Fact: Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed late and can be difficult to treat, but medical advances are improving detection and survival rates. Like other forms of cancer, early detection improves the chances of successful treatment. Surgical techniques, radiation therapy and chemotherapy treatments are becoming safer and more precise. Myth 2: Pancreatic cancer mostly affects men. Fact: Pancreatic cancer affects men and women almost equally. Pancreatic cancer is rare compared to other cancers, such as breast or lung cancer. The estimated lifetime risk of contracting pancreatic cancer is 1 in 73 for men and 1 in 74 for women. Myth 3: Pancreatic cancer only affects older people. Fact: Although most cases of pancreatic cancer are diagnosed over 60 years old, it has been found in people under 30 years. Practising healthy lifestyle choices throughout life, such as avoiding smoking, eating healthily and exercising regularly, can help to reduce your risk of developing the disease. Myth 4: Pancreatic cancer can be detected with a simple test. Fact: Researchers have not yet developed a simple and accurate test to detect pancreatic cancer. A combination of diagnostic tests may be used if a patient has signs or symptoms which could be due to pancreatic cancer.  Tests may also be recommended to screen at-risk groups, especially those with a family history of pancreatic cancer. Myth 5: Palliative care is only for those who are terminally ill. Fact: Supportive, or palliative care, involves managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Palliative care is beneficial at all stages from diagnosis to during and after treatment, and can help improve outcomes and well-being. Dr. Mahmoud Tabbal specializes in all conditions that are related to the liver, biliary system and pancreas, as well as oncology and gastrointestinal surgery. Dr. Tabbal combines a compassionate approach with the use of the latest techniques to provide optimal care.