The Pancreatic Cancer Collective, an initiative of the Lustgarten Foundation and Stand Up To Cancer, has partnered up with SU2C Ambassadors Marlon Wayans and Tiffany Haddish for a PSA to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer clinical trials.
The campaign is to heighten awareness around cutting-edge treatments available through pancreatic cancer clinical trials. According to the PCC, Black communities have a 30% higher pancreatic cancer incidence rate than any other racial or ethnic group.
“I’m honored to lend my support to this very important campaign to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer clinical trials,” said Haddish in a statement. “It is important for diverse communities to have representation in cancer research to ensure that treatments work for everyone, so we can save more lives.”
“Many of us are impacted by the loss of a loved one to cancer, including myself,” said Wayans. “Last year I lost a dear friend to this disease who profoundly impacted my career and life. Her loss is part of my inspiration for becoming an advocate for taking care of your health. I’m proud to be a part of this campaign to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer research and encourage patients to learn more about clinical trials.”
Studies suggest that environmental and socioeconomic factors heavily contribute to the disease. For example, cigarette smoking causes about 25% of pancreatic cancer.
Some of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer include back or stomach pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice and digestive challenges. However, many people are unaware of what to look for. Unfortunately, members of the Black community are usually diagnosed when the cancer is at an advanced stage and often inoperable.
The campaign hopes to aid in the reduction of advanced diagnoses.
“We are incredibly thankful to Tiffany Haddish and Marlon Wayans for lending their voices to this critical campaign and providing hope to pancreatic cancer patients,” said Sung Poblete, PhD, RN, CEO of Stand Up To Cancer. “Our collaboration with the Lustgarten Foundation on the Pancreatic Cancer Collective continues to support our mutual efforts to accelerate pancreatic cancer research and improve patient outcomes.”
