Our screening program offers individuals at increased risk for pancreatic cancer a chance at early detection of abnormalities.
Pancreatic cancer can be a devastating disease that is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. New data suggests that certain individuals who are at increased risk for pancreatic cancer may benefit from pancreatic cancer screening with a potential for early diagnosis. Risk assessment can also help those at risk to obtain counseling and genetic testing, when appropriate.
What is the High Risk Pancreatic Cancer Screening Program?
Patients in our program will have a detailed discussion about risk, as well as an explanation of the role and limitations of the available screening tests.
Once established, you would then be followed with appropriate testing and would have continued assessment of your risk, based on current guidelines.
Our team of experts provide caring support and specialized knowledge to help you make choices that are right for you and your family.
Care close to home from experts you can trust
The High Risk Pancreatic Cancer Screening Program is provided close to home through telehealth or in-person appointments. The team includes champions in surgical oncology, medical oncology, medical genetics and gastroenterology.
What type of screening tests might be recommended?
Pancreatic cancer screening may involve monitoring a person with imaging techniques such as MRI and/or endoscopic ultrasound.
Who can benefit from the High Risk Pancreatic Cancer Screening Program?
- Patients with a family history of pancreatic cancer in 2 or more relatives (from the same side of the family).
- Patients with at least one relative with pancreatic cancer and one of the following gene mutations:
- ATM.
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 (Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome).
- MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 or EPCAM (Lynch Syndrome).
- PALB2.
- TP53 (Li-Fraumeni Syndrome).
- Patients, regardless of family history, with one of the following gene mutations:
- STK11 (Puetz-Jeghers syndrome).
- CDKN2A (Familial Atypical Multiple Mole Melanoma).
- Patients with a diagnosis of hereditary pancreatitis.
What are the benefits of participating?
- Annual screening tests with the goal of early detection of abnormalities.
- Receiving care from experts in a variety of specialties, including: surgical oncology, medical oncology, genetics, gastroenterology and radiology.
- Discussion of lifestyle modifications to reduce risk.
- Potential for participation in pancreatic cancer research studies.
