Genetic Mutations

159 articles

Having a genetic mutation can make all the difference in treatment choices, and even longer-term survival. Learn more about the importance of genetic testing and molecular profiling.

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.

Survivor Stories
November 14, 2025 • 8 Min

Not Just a Survivor . . . A Sur-thriver!

Jon Oelke found that he has a rare genetic mutation, which gives him a back-up plan for treatment if his initial chemo stops working.

Survivor Stories
April 11, 2022 • 6 Min

Cherishing the Simple Things

Elizabeth O’Connor has a PALB2 genetic mutation so her stage IV pancreatic cancer has responded to immunotherapy.

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.

Symptoms
October 30, 2019 • 5 Min

Studying One Family’s Mutations May Change Pancreatic Cancer Treatment and Prevention

Dr. Sahar Nissim is studying the genetic mutations in one family predisposed to pancreatic cancer, to find new ways to combat the disease.

Treatments
June 27, 2019 • 5 Min

Questions to Ask Before You Begin Chemotherapy

Do you want to better understand your pancreatic cancer treatment? Dr. Andrew Hendifar outlines important questions to ask before starting chemotherapy.

Treatments
November 1, 2017 • 5 Min

Frequently Asked Questions About Pancreatic Cancer

Have you or someone you love just been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer? Learn some basic facts about this disease from our FAQ.

Survivor Stories
August 30, 2024 • 6 Min

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.

Page
June 20, 2022 • 1 Min

Glossary

A pancreatic cancer diagnosis means learning a whole new language for tests, treatments, symptoms, even body parts. Our glossary provides short definitions for any pancreatic cancer-related term.

Webinars
October 13, 2023 • 2 Min

BRCA Mutations and Pancreatic Cancer

Let’s Win, the National Alliance for Hispanic Health, and the Basser Center for BRCA teamed up to present a webinar on BRCA mutations and pancreatic cancer.

Symptoms
September 20, 2021 • 4 Min

Precursors to Pancreatic Cancer: Are There Any Signs to Watch Out For?

Dr. Venkata Akshintala outlines some of the precursors to pancreatic cancer that people should look out for.

Survivor Stories
April 8, 2026 • 9 Min

(Currently) Incurable, (Continuously) Fighting

Katie DeCarlo is continuously fighting her PNET. She is determined to try and will continue to try as many types of treatment as possible

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.

Treatments
March 2, 2018 • 4 Min

Molecular Profiling: Getting to Know Your Tumor

Dr. Johanna Bendell explains the value of molecular profiling, which can indicate the best type of chemotherapy for your tumor.

Webinars
November 20, 2024 • 1 Min

Genetic Testing and Molecular Profiling Can Guide Treatment

Watch our webinar on Genetic Testing and Molecular Profiling to learn from experts and patients why this is so important.