The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is calling for increased participation in clinical trials as part of its initiative to double the survival rate of pancreatic cancer by 2020.

Currently only three FDA approved drugs to treat pancreatic adenocarcinoma, the most common type of pancreatic cancer, are available. Although many other clinical trials are planned or in process, participant numbers are low. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network stresses that increased participation, and in turn increased clinical trials, are vital to meeting its 2020 goal.

The organization also encouraged patients with pancreatic cancer to consider clinical trials when exploring treatment options.

“Through participation in clinical trials, patients have access to cutting edge research and are taking an active role in advancing pancreatic cancer research. Clinical trials pave the way to therapeutic breakthroughs,” said Julie Fleshman, president and CEO of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.