Abstract

Pancreatic cancer is a highly aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis, accounting for a significant number of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite its rising incidence, the five-year relative survival rate remains low at 13%, with adenocarcinoma having a survival rate of just 8%. Early detection and effective management of pancreatic cancer are crucial to improving patient outcomes. Recent advancements in diagnostic technologies, including liquid biopsies, molecular imaging, and artificial intelligence-driven approaches, have shown promise in improving early detection rates. Liquid biopsies, in particular, offer a non-invasive means of detecting circulating cells, DNA and exosomes in bodily fluids. Meanwhile, advancements in genomic science have led to the development of targeted therapies, such as KRAS inhibitors, and immunotherapies, including checkpoint inhibitors and cancer vaccines. The management of pancreatic cancer requires a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Novel therapeutic strategies, including precision medicine approaches and nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems, are being explored to enhance treatment efficacy. Clinical trials are ongoing to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these emerging treatments. This review aimed at providing current insights into the prevalence, clinical diagnosis, and management of pancreatic cancer. The complexities of pancreatic cancer diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the need for continued research and clinical trials to improve patient outcomes were also discussed in this review.

Keywords:Pancreatic cancer; Clinical diagnosis; Targeted therapies; KRAS inhibitors; Precision medicine