Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection and Prevention

Am I at Higher Risk of Pancreatic Cancer?

You may have a higher chance of developing pancreatic cancer if you have:

• A pancreatic cyst
• Family history of pancreatic cancer
• History of pancreatitis
• A genetic mutation that increases pancreatic cancer risk

Early Detection & Screening Services

After thoroughly reviewing your medical records, you will be evaluated by a surgeon and/or gastroenterologist. A team of specialists also reviews your history.

Your provider then recommends the next steps to prevent and detect disease. This can include:

• Ongoing surveillance (every 6–12 months) for those with a family history or a genetic syndrome associated with pancreatic cancer 
• Evaluation and diagnosis of pancreatic cysts using technologies such as endoscopic ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 
• Surveillance or surgical treatment of pancreatic cysts associated with a high risk of cancer development
• Nutrition and lifestyle changes, including dietary changes (such as increasing vitamin D intake if you are deficient) or smoking cessation
• Genetic testing to determine whether you have a genetic mutation associated with pancreatic cancer

Testing for Hereditary Pancreatic Cancer

Up to 10 % of pancreatic cancers are believed to be caused by genetic mutations that can be passed from parent to child. Having a parent or sibling with pancreatic cancer can increase the risk to 4%. When two or more close relatives have pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common form of pancreatic cancer, the risk increases to as much as 40%. This is often referred to as familial pancreatic cancer.

We offer genetic testing to find inherited syndromes that can increase your risk of pancreatic cancer, including:

• Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2 gene mutations)
• Familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome
• Hereditary (familial) pancreatitis
• Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer or HNPCC syndrome)
• Ataxia telangiectasia (ATM gene mutations)

Genetic testing is done with a simple blood test.

Benefits of Genetic Testing

Knowing that you have a genetic mutation associated with pancreatic cancer, you and your doctor can:

• Develop a personalized screening and prevention plan specific to the genetic mutation and your risk factors based on National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCNN) guidelines
• Use lifestyle changes — such as exercise, nutrition and smoking cessation — to reduce your risk
• Inform your first-degree family members to get tested