The recent death of American singer D’Angelo at the age of 51 has drawn attention to the growing concerns surrounding pancreatic cancer. D’Angelo continued to battle cancer fiercely until his death on October 14, 2025. Popular on Rolling Stone {{ bottomanced.shareCount | number }} He joins a lengthy list of stars who have battled this insidious killer. As advocacy and awareness efforts grow, it’s important to know what pancreatic cancer is and what it means.
Pancreatic cancer starts in the pancreas, a 6-inch-long gland between the stomach and spine. The disease primarily develops from two types of cells within the pancreas: exocrine cells, which produce enzymes that aid digestion, and endocrine cells, which produce hormones such as insulin. It is the 10th most common cancer and the 3rd leading cause of cancer-related death, making it a highly dangerous cancer. Even worse, the incidence of this disease has been consistently climbing at a pace of nearly 0.9% per year since 2013.
In 2025 alone, experts project that there will be an estimated 67,440 new cases of pancreatic cancer diagnosed in the United States. Tragically, the disease is projected to take another 51,980 lives this year — a testament to its aggressiveness. By 2025, pancreatic cancer will account for 3.3% of all new diagnosed cancers. Yet, it is projected to account for more than 8% of cancer deaths.
Survival rates for pancreatic cancer remain disheartening. Of all the patients diagnosed, only 13% will live five years after diagnosis. This alarming figure is a constant reminder that more research and better treatment needs to be a national priority. Our current treatment protocols usually follow with surgery that removes portions of the pancreas, small intestine and bile duct. Radiation and/or chemotherapy can be part of treatment, depending on the disease stage.
High-profile advocates such as Alex Trebek, the long-time host of “Jeopardy! They illuminate the often daunting obstacles that patients must overcome in their fight against this unforgiving disease. Trebek was diagnosed in March 2019 and died of the disease in November 2020 at the age of 80. Other celebrities who have fought this disease are Mindy Kaling’s mom, Patrick Swayze, Maria Menounos, and Willie Garson. Swayze, during his fight against the disease, poignantly expressed his hopes in an interview, stating:
“Keep my heart and my soul and my spirit open to miracles.” – Patrick Swayze
D’Angelo’s family shared their heartbreak over his passing with a statement that resonated with many who understood the struggles associated with this illness:
“After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14th, 2025.” – D’Angelo’s family
Awareness of pancreatic cancer has risen, partly due to impactful stories like D’Angelo’s. This increasing awareness gives us hope that more resources will be focused on research and more promising treatment options are on the way. Public health efforts are aimed at informing people on symptoms and risk factors. This information allows them to detect cancers earlier, which is critical to enhancing prognosis.
