Raising Awareness
and Finding a Cure for
Peritoneal Cancer
Supporting research to extend the lives of people living with peritoneal cancer.
Patients who have a better understanding of their condition tend to have a higher success rate in managing the disease. The Peritoneal Cancer Foundation is here to support you in becoming one of those patients.
We’re here to provide you with informative resources to help you comprehend this rare form of cancer.
Understanding
Peritoneal Cancer
Peritoneal cancer, which forms in the peritoneum, is a rare type of cancer that affects the lining of the abdominal cavity. Although primary peritoneal tumors are rare, secondary peritoneal cancer is common and occurs in the following diagnosed cases:
Symptoms of
Peritoneal Cancer
Symptoms of peritoneal cancer can be vague and non-specific, which can make it difficult to diagnose. Some common symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Bloating or swelling of the abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling of fullness after eating small amounts
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to see a healthcare provider if you experience any of them. Additionally, peritoneal cancer may not cause any symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular cancer screenings are important for early detection.
Risk Factors
While the exact causes of peritoneal cancer are not fully understood, there are some risk factors that have been identified, including:
- Genetic mutations: Inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.
- Age and gender: More common in women over the age of 60.
- Exposure to asbestos: Long-term exposure to asbestos fibers may increase the risk of developing peritoneal cancer.
- History of certain cancers: Individuals who have had cancer of the ovaries,
fallopian tubes, or peritoneum are at a higher risk. - Chronic inflammation: Due to conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease may increase the risk of developing peritoneal cancer.
However, many cases of peritoneal cancer occur without any known risk factors, and having one or more of these does not necessarily mean that a person will develop peritoneal cancer.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for peritoneal cancer may vary depending on the stage and severity of the disease, as well as the individual patient’s overall health. Some common treatments include:
- Surgery: In many cases, surgery is the first line of treatment for peritoneal cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible, which may involve removing the affected organs or tissues.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be administered orally or through an IV. Systemic chemotherapy is used when cancer cells have spread beyond the peritoneum, while intraperitoneal chemotherapy is delivered directly into the abdomen.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is typically used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery and chemotherapy.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a relatively new approach to cancer treatment that involves boosting the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that target specific molecules or proteins that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. This approach may be used in patients with certain genetic mutations or other specific characteristics.
- Clinical trials: Clinical trials may offer access to experimental treatments that are not yet widely available. These trials can help to identify new, more effective treatments for peritoneal cancer.
Advancing Peritoneal Cancer Research and Treatment
Established in 2023 as a new 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Peritoneal Cancer Foundation (PCF) is dedicated to supporting research that can lead to new and more effective treatments for peritoneal cancer.
Empowering Change Through Our Goals
Raise awareness of peritoneal cancer, which remains both misunderstood and often overlooked in the oncology research and treatment communities.
Bring new levels of support to clinicians, academic scientists, and biotechnology and pharma companies to support more clinical research that can lead to new treatments as rapidly as possible.
Expand access to information for patients, clinicians, industry, and regulators about relevant clinical research that is targeting new treatments.
Peritoneal Cancer Foundation
Resources and Activities
Established in 2023 as a new 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Peritoneal Cancer Foundation (PCF) is dedicated to supporting research that can lead to new and more effective treatments for peritoneal cancer.
GRANTS
Connecting promising research with funding and new opportunities for collaboration.
MEDICAL MEETINGS
Making sure that peritoneal cancer is a focus at the leading oncology meetings.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Build a stronger and more engaged community of leaders from advocacy, academia, industry and government.
INFORMATION
Fact sheets and other educational resources about peritoneal cancer.
Join Our Mission:
Supporting Research for New
Peritoneal Cancer Treatments
With your support, the Peritoneal Cancer Foundation can make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by this disease. Learn more about our mission and plans for the future.
