Pantoprazole taken for 5 years?

Hello--I have read about different research that has been done on ppi's(proton pump inhibitors--- antacids) and that there may be a connection with stomach and bile duct cancer. You may want to do some research on that yourself. I do know that there is much information out there about long term use of antacids and it is not good. I was on omeprazole for 7 years and was recently diagnosed with vitamin deficiencies and anemia. The omeprazole( which is in the same family as your pantoprazole) stops production of stomach acid, which is needed to absorb iron, B 12, vitamin C and other vitamins and minerals. After so many years on the omeprazole if finally affected my body. With my doctors's help I got off the omeprazole, started taking supplements to get my iron, ferritin , and b12 and others up. And for the heartburn started on a probiotic , digestive enzymes, and eat a few raw almonds if I suffer from heartburn. I am recovering slowly but surely and am feeling much better. I am sorry to hear about the cancer and I would encourage you to start researching this and work together with your doctor. I hope this helps and good luck to you!