Alex Trebek Raises Pancreatic Cancer Awareness With PSA: ‘Together, We Can Get it Done’

Ever since Alex Trebek was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer, he’s been doing everything in his power to spread awareness and fight the deadly disease. He most recently joined forces with the World Pancreatic Cancer Coalition to make a PSA about World Pancreatic Cancer Day, which is November, 21.

“I wished I had known sooner that the persistent stomach pain I experienced before my diagnosis was a symptom of pancreatic cancer,” the Jeopardy! host, 79, said in the video. “Other common symptoms can include mid back pain, unexplained weight loss, new onset diabetes and the yellowing of the skin or eyes.”

By listing the symptoms, Alex is hoping more people can be alert about the disease and will get themselves checked out more often. After all, he said people who are diagnosed with pancreatic  cancer only have a five-year survival rate in most countries, but if they get diagnosed early “when surgery is an option” then they’ll have a better chance at breaking the statistics.

WPCC chairwoman, Julie Fleshman, joined Alex in the PSA and gave a little bit more information about the upcoming event. “On World Pancreatic Cancer Day, we unite as a global movement to advocate for early detection and better outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients,” she said. “By raising awareness of pancreatic cancer risks and symptoms, we hope that people will be aware and alert their doctor sooner when there is more opportunity for intervention.”

“Together, we can get it done,” added Alex.

The longtime quiz show host is determined to spread more awareness about pancreatic cancer — and his friend Dr. Oz is happy that he’s being proactive.

“If you know Alex behind the scenes, he’s a golden hearted man who is able to give so much to so many people and the passion and the support you see on Jeopardy! is what he does in person as well,” the TV personality explained to Closer Weekly. “I told him, and I do believe this, he’s soulful man who’s always been optimistic about life — keep his confidence. The longer he stays alive, the better able we are to catch up to his pancreatic cancer.”

World Pancreatic Cancer Day is right around the corner. Please take Alex’s advice and make sure you get yourself checked out!