Family History

185 articles

Screening and Early Detection
April 14, 2023 • 5 Min

Who Should Be Screened For Pancreatic Cancer

Who should be screened for pancreatic cancer? Dr. Allyson Ocean explains how genetic mutations and family history factor into screening.

Survivor Stories
May 7, 2024 • 5 Min

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.

Survivor Stories
November 2, 2023 • 8 Min

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.

Symptoms
June 8, 2021 • 4 Min

Crafting a Medical Family Tree

Dr. Diane Simeone and genetic counselor Jessica Everett explain why it is important to create a medical family tree for pancreatic cancer.

Symptoms
February 9, 2022 • 5 Min

Understanding Who Is at High Risk for Pancreatic Cancer

Who is high-risk for pancreatic cancer? Oncologist Dr. Matthew Yurgelun explains high-risk populations and what steps to take if you meet the criteria.

Symptoms
September 29, 2017 • 4 Min

Pancreatic Cancer and Family History

Dr. Diane Simeone is developing a tablet-based family history survey to identify patients with a genetic-based risk for developing pancreatic cancer.

Survivor Stories
August 30, 2022 • 3 Min

Family History Matters

After Martin Abrams lost two siblings to pancreatic cancer, he made sure he was screened regularly because of his family history.

Survivor Stories
May 18, 2016 • 3 Min

Understanding Family History Makes a Difference in Treatment Options

Elizabeth Pršić describes her mother Andrea’s pancreatic cancer treatment. Andrea has the BRCA2 mutation, which helps determine the plan.

Survivor Stories
November 15, 2024 • 3 Min

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.

Survivor Stories
September 13, 2023 • 6 Min

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.

The Importance of Genetic Testing
December 1, 2017 • 6 Min

Before You Leap: Genetic Testing for Pancreatic Cancer

Genetic counselor Megan Frone outlines the advantages of genetic testing when there is a family history of pancreatic cancer.

Research
February 4, 2019 • 5 Min

Genetic Testing for All Pancreatic Cancer Patients

A study by Dr. Gloria Petersen’s research team has led to an official recommendation that all pancreatic cancer patients get genetic testing.

Survivor Stories
June 1, 2023 • 4 Min

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.

Survivor Stories
October 5, 2016 • 4 Min

With No Family History of Cancer, Surprised By the Diagnosis

Marianne, a nurse, went to a hospital that specializes in cancer. A liquid biopsy will determine the next step in her treatment.

Managing Your Care
December 30, 2025 • 6 Min

Making Sure Patients Get Genetic Testing

Dr. Janie Zheng explains her hospital’s protocol for making sure all new pancreatic cancer patients get genetic testing.