Shuli Maimon Reveals Early Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis After Abdominal Pain

Former Knesset member and journalist Shuli Maimon provided an update on her health, addressing public inquiries following her recent revelation of battling pancreatic cancer. She shared that her tumor was discovered at an early stage, a rarity for this type of cancer, and clarified that a new pancreatic cancer drug is not currently applicable to her situation.

Maimon explained that the tumor was located between her pancreas and bile ducts, causing partial blockage, inflammation, and abdominal pain. After visiting a clinic, she was referred to the emergency room, where an ultrasound and subsequent CT scan revealed the growth. A surgeon informed her of a "tumor process in the pancreas," and when she asked if it meant cancer, he replied that the chances were high.

She highlighted that her case is unusual because pancreatic cancer often presents no early symptoms, leading to late-stage diagnoses. Maimon initially disclosed her diagnosis eight months prior, stating the tumor was discovered without metastasis, surgically removed, and that three subsequent CT scans showed no recurrence. Despite this, she is undergoing bi-weekly chemotherapy to minimize the risk of the cancer returning.

"There are difficult days, but there is no misery or fear," she had previously written. Regarding the new pancreatic cancer drug, Maimon stated it is not suitable for her at this stage since the tumor was removed and there are no metastases. She expressed hope that she will not need it in the future.