Remembering Jerry Springer: From Politician to TV Icon and His Battle with Pancreatic Cancer

Jerry Springer, the controversial talk show host, died at age 79 from pancreatic cancer, which accounts for about 3% of all cancers in the United States and about 7% of all cancer deaths. Pancreatic cancer is difficult to diagnose and most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, making it largely incurable. Other public figures who have died from the disease include Alex Trebek, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Aretha Franklin. Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include smoking, obesity, diabetes, and chronic inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms can include jaundice, pain, and weight loss.