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.
36 Articles
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.
A Genetic Mutation Aids My Treatment
Malcolm Robertson carries the BRCA2 mutation, so when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, platinum-based chemo was part of his treatment.
Tumor RNA Testing Leads to Treatment with a New Drug
When treatment stopped working for Adam Deal, genetic testing of his tumor RNA found a mutation that made him eligible to try a new drug.
Younger Brother’s Pancreatic Cancer Leads to Regular Screening for his Oldest Brother
When Scott Nelson was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, oldest brother Steve began regular screening, which lead to his early diagnosis.
Facing Pancreatic Cancer and Making the Most of Borrowed Time
With a young family, Justin Baker is hoping for more time because he has a genetic mutation that favors certain treatments.
Listen to Your Body
When Roxanne Waling discovered she had pancreatic cancer she underwent genetic testing. She found she was a BRCA2 carrier, which influenced her post-treatment decisions about her health.
Genomic Testing of Pancreatic Tumor Leads to an Important Discovery
Connie Waxman learned the value of palliative care after chemotherapy, radiation, and a pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer; then she had genomic testing.
Using the Energy Around Me to Help Me Heal
Judith Glaser’s genetic mutation influenced her chemotherapy and radiation treatments, supported by the healing energy of friends.
Early Detection Makes All the Difference
Carolynn Kiel lost her mother and sister to pancreatic cancer. Regular screening allowed early detection of her pancreatic cancer.
Taking Nothing For Granted
After Whipple surgery and chemoradiation, Susan Zbacnik had molecular profiling, genetic testing, and joined an Immunotherapy clinical trial.