PO Box 360
Trenton, NJ 08625-0360

For Release:
November 16, 2016

Cathleen D. Bennett
Commissioner

For Further Information Contact:
Office of Communications
(609) 984-7160

Drumthwacket to Illuminate in Purple for World Pancreatic Cancer Day on Thursday Evening November 17

For Immediate Release                                                                Contact:  Brian Murray

Wednesday, November 16, 2016                                                                609-777-2600

Trenton, NJ - In recognition of World Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day, First Lady Mary Pat Christie announced today that Drumthwacket, the Governor’s Official Residence in Princeton will be lit in purple tomorrow evening, Thursday, November 17, to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer while demonstrating support for individuals and families impacted by the disease.

“As we mark World Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day, it is important that we take this opportunity to raise greater awareness of the disease, which often times is difficult to diagnose,” said Mrs. Christie.  “In doing so, we can make a difference by helping family and friends protect their health, lower the risk of pancreatic cancer and ultimately save lives.”

Pancreatic Cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Each year, there are approximately 1,400 newly diagnosed cases and 1,180 deaths due to pancreatic cancer in New Jersey alone. About 53,000 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer by the end of 2016, according to the American Cancer Society.

While there is no way to prevent pancreatic cancer, the New Jersey Department of Health is reminding residents there are important measures to take to reduce the risk of developing this disease, including  avoiding or quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and limiting personal exposure to certain chemicals in the workplace.

For more information about World Pancreatic Cancer Day, visit http://www.worldpancreaticcancerday.org/

Follow the New Jersey Department of Health on Twitter at twitter.com/NJDeptofHealth and on Facebook at facebook.com/NJDeptofHealth

 

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www.nj.gov/governor/

 

Last Reviewed: 11/29/2016