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.
45 Articles
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.
Taking Chances to Beat Pancreatic Cancer
With a family history of pancreatic cancer, Jay Bozick discovered he carries the BRCA2 mutation, which directed his treatment.
Urinary Tract Scans Lead to My Diagnosis
Ellen Robbins has the BRCA2 mutation, and that allowed her to participate in a clinical trial for her pancreatic cancer.
Family History Matters
After Martin Abrams lost two siblings to pancreatic cancer, he made sure he was screened regularly because of his family history.
My Journey with Pancreatic Cancer
Dr. Robert Wagar lost both parents to pancreatic cancer. When his wife found an article about a surveillance study he had an MRI, which found a lesion.
Cherishing the Simple Things
Elizabeth O’Connor has a PALB2 genetic mutation so her stage IV pancreatic cancer has responded to immunotherapy.
Taking Life with Pancreatic Cancer One Day at a Time
François has been taking chemotherapy for his pancreatic cancer treatment and living one day at a time, to make the most of his life.
The Butterfly Effect and Living Every Day to My Fullest
Because Helene Avraham-Katz has the BRCA2 mutation, certain chemotherapies work better and she is eligible for specific clinical trials.
BRCA Mutation Determines My Pancreatic Cancer Treatment
Chris Treubert started with one type of chemotherapy but when the results of genetic testing showed a BRCA mutation he changed treatment.
What Caused My Pancreatic Cancer?
Despite no known genetic link, Steven Robinson is the fourth member of his family on his mother’s side to get pancreatic cancer.
A Second Opinion Makes the Difference
Irma Infante refused to give up after a stage IV pancreatic cancer diagnosis. She went for a second opinion and better treatment options.
The Value of Molecular Profiling and Genetic Testing
Gina Harrison underwent molecular profiling of her pancreatic tumor, which led her to a clinical trial. Genetic testing showed her BRCA1 mutation was random.
Pancreatic Cancer Caught Early Because of My Vigilance
Beverly Leighton joined a screening study and underwent genetic testing because of her family history of pancreatic cancer.
Genetic Testing Leads Me to a PARP Inhibitor Trial
Harvey Parker had genetic testing as part of his initial pancreatic cancer treatment. The BRCA2 mutation led him to a PARP inhibitor clinical trial.