Grammy-winning R&B singer D’Angelo has died after a private battle with cancer. The musician, who was 51, helped pioneer the neo-soul movement.
“The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life,” his family said in a statement on Tuesday to multiple news outlets. “After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today.
“We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind. We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite you all join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.
D’Angelo was born Michael Eugene Archer in Richmond, Va., where he grew up playing music with his older brother, Luther Archer. In 1994, they wrote and co-produced the single “U Will Know” for R&B supergroup Black Men United, which featured stars including Brian McKnight, Usher, R. Kelly and Boyz II Men.
The following year, he released his debut album, Brown Sugar, followed by his next album in 2000 called Voodoo. The latter won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album, and his single, “United (How Does It Feel),” earned him another Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. His third album, Black Messiah in 2014, also won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Album.
D’Angelo collaborated with numerous artists over the years, including the Roots, Common, J. Dilla, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill and his then-girlfriend Angie Stone, with whom he shared a son. (Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images)
D’Angelo had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was in treatment for several months, TMZ has reported. The influential singer is survived by two sons and a daughter.
For 2024, the Canadian Cancer Society estimated more than 7,100 people across the country would be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Moreover, 6,100 people were projected to die from the disease last year in Canada. Only around 10 per cent of Canadians diagnosed with pancreatic cancer are expected to survive for at least five years after diagnosis.
What is pancreatic cancer?
The pancreas is a part of the body’s digestive system. It’s a pear-shaped gland about as long as your hand that sits behind the stomach. Its duct connects to the first part of the small intestine, which receives partially digested food from the stomach.
Pancreatic cancer forms when cells in the pancreas change and no longer behave normally, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. It most commonly starts in cells of the pancreatic duct.
Roughly 95 per cent of all cancerous tumours in the pancreas start in exocrine cells, which make and release juices that help with digestion. These cancers are called ductal adenocarcinomas.
The pancreas is shaped like a slim pear and is about as long as your hand. It sits behind the stomach. (Photo via Getty Images)
What are the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic Cancer Canada has called the signs and symptoms of the cancerous tumour “confusing to both patients and health-care providers.” The signs can be vague and commonly occur with other conditions. Generally, the symptoms can include:
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Pain in the upper abdomen or back
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Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
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Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss
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Diabetes developed late in life
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Diarrhea and constipation
According to Pancreatic Cancer Canada, those who experience one or more of these symptoms should talk to their health-care provider.
Music producer Quincy Jones also died of pancreatic cancer in November 2024. He was 91. (Photo via Mark Blinch/Reuters)
How is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?
Generally, a diagnosis for pancreatic cancer begins with a visit to your family doctor, who will ask about any symptoms you’re experiencing and conduct a physical exam. Afterwards, they might send you to a specialist, or order more tests that might confirm pancreatic cancer or other health problems.
According to Mayo Clinic, there are a variety of tests that might be used to diagnose pancreatic cancer. These might include:
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Imaging tests: This method will provide pictures of the inside of the body, and might be in the form of an ultrasound, CT scans, MRI scans and PET scans.
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A scope with ultrasound: An endoscope, during a process called EUS, is inserted down the throat to the stomach, and an attached ultrasound device will use sound waves to create images of nearby tissues and the pancreas.
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Removing a tissue sample for testing: A biopsy might be conducted to test tissue, which is often taken at the same as an EUS. This tissue is then sent to a lab for testing.
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Blood tests: These tests might show proteins called tumour markers that pancreatic cancer cells make. Health-care providers often conduct this test during and after treatment to see how the cancer is responding.
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Genetic tests: A blood or saliva sample might provide some insight into a patient’s inherited DNA if they’re diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, thus hopefully informing their treatment plan.
A variety of tests, including blood tests or genetic testing, might be used to determine if you have pancreatic cancer. (Photo via Getty Images)
Who’s at risk for pancreatic cancer?
Some risk factors for the cancer are “non-modifiable,” according to Pancreatic Cancer Canada.
Men are slightly more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and the risk of cancer development increases by age. About 90 per cent of those who are diagnosed are aged 55 and up.
Chronic pancreatitis and long-standing diabetes can also increase a person’s chances of developing pancreatic cancer. Family history can also have an impact, as Pancreatic Cancer Canada said between five and 10 per cent of pancreatic cancers result from hereditary factors.
Some factors, however, include habits and environmental factors that can be modified to reduce risk. These include:
Smokers are two to three times more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than non-smokers, according to the agency. A diet high in cholesterol, fried foods and red meat may increase a person’s risk of the cancer, while a diet high in fruits, vegetables and fibre may reduce risk.
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