November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month with Targeting Cancer highlighting the vital role that radiation therapy can play treating tumors in the pancreas.
Thousands of Australians and New Zealanders get diagnosed with pancreatic cancer every single year. In Australia, it is the eighth most diagnosed cancer, and the ninth most diagnosed cancer amongst males in New Zealand.
80-year-old Sydneysider Brian Egan was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2023, with the cancer found in its very early stages. The retired warehouse manager discussed several treatment options with his team.
His radiation oncologist recommended an advanced radiation therapy technique called SABR (Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy). SABR is a highly targeted form of radiation therapy that is painless, and no surgery is needed.
For people with pancreatic cancer, SABR can be a very effective at controlling the cancer and reducing pain and other symptoms. Brian’s course of SABR took place at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney.
“I was very lucky that the cancer was caught very early”, said Brian.
“My course consisted of five sessions of radiation therapy over 10 days using a specialised MRI-Linac machine, enabling the radiation to be precisely targeted at the tumor.
“The experience was quick and painless. I’m very grateful to the staff at St Vincent’s radiation oncology department; they were all fantastic, caring, and compassionate.
“My wife Sue was an incredible support throughout and is my rock.
“It’s been a year since my SABR treatment and my cancer is dormant, and the initial pain caused by the cancer a distant memory.
“I think building an understanding of radiation therapy as a treatment choice is incredibly important and that’s why I wanted to share my story as part of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month.
Brian’s radiation oncologist is Dr Lucinda Morris, who is also Co-Chair of the Targeting Cancer campaign.
“Brian’s story is yet another example of how radiation therapy is a highly effective treatment for many different types of cancer. Exciting advances, such as SABR, are helping many people with cancer to live longer and to live well”, said Dr Morris.
“He was incredibly positive throughout his treatment and has a wonderful attitude.
“Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month is important globally to build knowledge of the disease and celebrate survivors like Brian.”
For more information about radiation therapy and pancreatic cancer go to
Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Options | Targeting Center AU & NZ
