Comments on: In stage 4B pancreatic cancer w/ liver, bladder metastasis at diagnosis what is the life expectancy?

By: tigerlily

tigerlily — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 04:49:34 +0000

So sorry to hear this sad story I hope your uncle will not suffer and that his pain will be minimal my prayer is also for you and your family and hope you all receive the best care and compassion God Bless you all

By: tiny Valkyrie

tiny Valkyrie — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 04:49:34 +0000

I lost my mom to pancreatic cancer 5 years ago.

Stage 4b is very advanced cancer, meaning he’s had it for 1-2 years.

If all his doctors are recommending hospice, that would be the best option at this point. Even with the best chemo and radiation treatments, alternative therapies and pain management, living with pancreatic cancer is something I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy.

By: Messykatttt

Messykatttt — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 04:49:34 +0000

Hi. As someone said, his oncologist is the best source of info, and if you’re his caretaker, you certainly have the right to know.

Predictions about how long he has left are vague at best. And a lot depends on him. Many cancer patients want to keep fighting until the last breath; others reach a plateau and then announce they’re done with treatment. Make sure you understand where he’s at with this.

Also, if he hasn’t had any treatment yet, ask his oncologist about clinical trials he might qualify for. (This assumes he wants to do this).

By: Sheila C

Sheila C — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 04:49:34 +0000

Find out what cancer really is and how to get rid of it. knowthecause.com

By: BSherman

BSherman — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 04:49:34 +0000

Your uncle’s oncologist is the best person to discuss his prognosis and treatment plan with. Since you do not mention ongoing chemo, would it be correct to say that he has shifted to palliative care?

Multi-site metastasis with rapid weight loss indicates the inevitable will come, but saying when is extremely difficult. Some patients stabilize for weeks or months, albeit at a low level. Other patients go downhill rapidly.

As another posting related, you need to be ready right now. It could be months or it could be tomorrow. Sorry for your troubles.

By: Denisedds

Denisedds — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 04:49:34 +0000

The median survival is 6-9 months. However, from your description I’m sorry to say it sounds like he may have less time. I think you should look into hospice ASAP. Things can change quickly in a matter of days.

EDIT: Treatment, chemo or anything else, is not out of the question. It may prolong his life and/or relieve some symptoms, but it will not cure him and therefore would not be treated aggressively.

I answered you the way I did as you were asking about life expectancy. Of course, it is not possible to predict a timeframe for an individual with great accuracy, but the survival rates we have are based on very detailed information we keep on cancer and they are as accurate a prediction that can be made. I wish you both the best.