- Pancreatic cancer is often hard to detect and treat.
- Tumors can grow quietly for many years inside body.
- Surgery may remove a tumor but not all cells.
- This cancer has a low survival rate.
- Researchers found a gene that can hide cancer.
- The gene stops immune cells from finding tumors.
- Time of day can change immune cell attack.
- Some vaccine trials helped only some patients for years.
- Scientists now study new ways to improve treatment.
Difficult words
- pancreatic — relating to the pancreas, an organ in the body
- tumor — a mass of cells that should not growTumors
- surgery — a medical operation to remove or fix parts
- survival — the length of time people live after illness
- gene — a small part of DNA that gives instructions
- immune — relating to the body's system that fights disease
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever had a vaccine?
- Do you sleep at the same time every day?
- Do you want to learn more about medical research?
Related articles
Virtual diet and exercise program helps people with lymphoma
A study tested a virtual diet and exercise program for people getting chemotherapy for lymphoma. The program improved symptoms, attendance was high, and participants had better strength and physical performance during treatment.
Most US drug trials do not mirror racial and ethnic diversity
A study of pivotal trials used to approve new drugs found only a small share reflect the United States racial and ethnic makeup. The review shows underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic people and urges more diversity earlier in development.
Outer root layer controls twisted root growth
A research team found that the outer cell layer of roots (the epidermis) can control whether roots grow twisted or straight. Lab measurements and computer models explain why this layer has more mechanical influence, with implications for crops.