Alex Trebek, the beloved host of “Jeopardy,” passed away on November 8, 2020, at the age of 80. His death followed a courageous battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis he publicly announced in 2019. Trebek’s passing marked the end of an era for the popular trivia show, which he hosted for 35 years.
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer and Alex Trebek’s Legacy
Pancreatic cancer, the disease that claimed Trebek’s life, is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The pancreas, a six-inch gland located in the abdomen, is responsible for producing digestive enzymes and hormones like insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels.
Unfortunately, no screening test currently exists for early detection of pancreatic cancer. While some individuals may experience “painless jaundice,” many symptoms, such as back pain, abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss, are common to other conditions, often leading to late-stage diagnoses. This was highlighted by Dr. Timothy Donahue, a professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Dr. Timothy Donahue, a surgical oncologist specializing in pancreatic cancer at UCLA.
Pancreatic cancer is known for its aggressive nature and resistance to various treatments, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. Risk factors include smoking and alcohol consumption, though Dr. Donahue, surgical director of the UCLA Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases, notes these are not significantly strong indicators.
Advances in Pancreatic Cancer Research and Treatment
Germline sequencing, a method for detecting gene mutations that increase disease risk, offers a promising preventive measure, particularly for those with a family history of cancer. This DNA mapping technique has led to the development of new treatment options. One area of focus is the KRAS oncogene, a cancer-causing genetic mutation that fuels tumor growth in the pancreas. Similar to BRCA mutations in breast cancer, KRAS mutations are present in almost all pancreatic cancer cases.
Dr. Donahue points to recent breakthroughs in drugs targeting KRAS variants, offering hope for significant advancements in pancreatic cancer treatment. Additionally, the discovery that approximately 8 percent of late-stage pancreatic cancer patients also have BRCA mutations has enabled better screening through frequent MRI exams and pancreatic endoscopies. Early diagnosis through these methods increases the likelihood of successful surgical intervention. Robotic-assisted surgery, as effective as open surgery but with faster recovery times, represents another significant advancement.
Remembering Alex Trebek
Alex Trebek’s passing brought pancreatic cancer to the forefront, raising awareness about this challenging disease. While his loss is deeply felt, his legacy continues to inspire research and advancements in treatment, offering hope for improved outcomes for those facing this diagnosis. Dr. Donahue expresses optimism about the future of pancreatic cancer treatment, anticipating continued progress in both medical and surgical therapies.
