Although rare, pancreatic cancer usually has a poor prognosis. Margaret Ann Perry explains the risk factors for, and diagnosis and treatment of, the disease Despite improved survival for those with many types of cancer, pancreatic cancer has continued to have poor outcomes. This article was written following the loss of a popular and well respected colleague who recently passed away from this devastating disease. It aims to alert practice nurses to the vague symptoms of pancreatic cancer, its diagnosis and management, and improve knowledge and understanding of this much-feared cancer type.