Genetic Mutations and Family History
Genetic testing is now the standard care for pancreatic cancer. Finding a mutation can impact treatment choices and the health of other family members. These pancreatic cancer survivors offer their perspective and best practices for living with genetic mutations.
43 Articles
Extensive Family History and Genetic Testing Leads to Early Detection
Sidney Levinson and his doctor were aware of his BRCA1/2 mutations so when an MRI was recommended for screening, Sidney did it.
Genetic Testing Guided My Treatment Plan
Ryan Dwars already knew there was pancreatic cancer in his family so when he was diagnosed he asked for genetic testing right away.
Don’t Let Doctors Tell You Nothing’s Wrong
After a long road to diagnosis Brandon Stone learned he has a BRCA2 genetic mutation that impacts his treatment.
Lucky to Find It Early
When Jeneen Genna did not feel well her doctor searched until they found pancreatic cancer. The BRCA2 mutation has her in a clinical trial.
The Sound of Hope
Kim Bate has a long family history of pancreatic cancer, losing his sister and twin brother to it. Then he received the same diagnosis.
Leaning into the Fight: My Battle with Pancreatic Cancer
Despite an extensive family history of pancreatic cancer, Deanna Burney’s doctors did not keep a close eye on her pancreatic cyst.
Genetic Testing Changed My Chemo Protocol
Greg Jacobson’s family has an extensive history of cancer. After a pancreatic cancer diagnosis, genetic testing found the mutation for Lynch syndrome.
Sometimes Things Get Worse Before They Get Better
Matthew Rosenblum thought his time was limited after a pancreatic cancer diagnosis at age 32, but he’s a BRCA2 carrier, which opened treatment options.
I Wanted Immunotherapy!
When Daniel Miller was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer he knew he didn’t want chemotherapy—he wanted immunotherapy!
A Long Journey That Began With Pancreatitis
Paul Suntup’s diagnosis of acinar cell pancreatic cancer was just the start of a long treatment journey, but he’s still here.
Reaching Primary Care Providers Through Podcasts
Dr. Jon Hallberg leads a series on early detection of pancreatic cancer as part of his mission to reach providers through podcasts.
A Family Tree Bent but Not Broken by Pancreatic Cancer
When Kay Zedd Kesser looks around her family tree, she sees pancreatic cancer everywhere. But screening saved Kay’s life.
Changing Course Midstream
Barbara Green wasn’t happy with her doctors, so she took the advice of her support group, was an advocate for herself, and changed doctors.
A Cancer-Free Life 25 Years in the Making
Andy Lyons lost many family members to pancreatic cancer. With such a family history he knew to be proactive and get screened regularly.
No One Fights Alone
Because of her grandfather, Rhonda Havig knew she had a family history of pancreatic cancer. But her own diagnosis was still a surprise.