Pancreatic Cancer Screening
Finding and treating pancreatic cancer early increases the likelihood of a successful outcome. The experts in our Pancreatic Cancer Screening and Early Detection (PanScan) Program use sophisticated imaging tools to scan for early signs of pancreatic cancer.
Our Pancreatic Cancer Screening and Early Detection Program closely monitors high-risk people for the first signs of cancer. We build a comprehensive long-term screening plan based on your risk.
Who Needs Pancreatic Cancer Screening?
Most people do not experience pancreatic cancer symptoms until the disease has advanced to a late stage. That’s why we recommend regular screening for anyone in these high-risk groups:
- Age 40 (sometimes earlier) or older who has at minimum one parent, sibling or child with pancreatic cancer. The more family members from one side of your family with pancreatic cancer, the greater your risk.
- Positive genetic markers from genetic testing, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes (the genes associated with breast cancer), CDKN2A, PRSS1, SPINK1, STK11, TP53, ATM and PALB2.
Annual screening tests allow us to watch for signs of cancer or precancerous lesions. If cancer develops, we have fast access to your information to develop a treatment plan.
What to Expect
The experts in our Pancreatic Cancer Screening and Early Detection (PanScan) Program work together to create a comprehensive, long-term screening plan. The screening process includes:
- Initial evaluation: In a telephone call, we learn about your health history and your family’s history with pancreatic cancer. With this information we determine your cancer risk level.
- Pancreatic cancer genetic testing: Our genetic counselors interpret genetic test results based on your personal and family history and help you understand your risk.
- First appointment: You meet with your doctor and discuss your results. Your doctor recommends imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). We create a schedule for future screening appointments.
- Ongoing annual screening: You return each year for imaging tests, and we discuss the results. We share information on managing your health and the latest in pancreatic cancer screening.
One Patient, Two Cancers, Multiple Experts: A Path Forward in a Day
“After my diagnoses, I thought that was ‘it’ was for me, but it wasn’t,” says Maxine Aubry. “Find a team that can answer all of your questions, and then get on with it. It doesn’t have to be the end of the world.”
Contact Us
8720 Beverly Blvd, Lower Level
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Pacific Time (U.S.)
Related Programs & Services
Our comprehensive, team-based approach to pancreatic cancer care includes screening, evaluation and treatment.
Have Questions or Need Help?
Call the Pancreatic Cancer Screening team. You can also have us call you back at your convenience.