Pancreatic Cancer Screening

Baton Rouge General and Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center’s pancreatic screening program monitors high risk individuals for the first signs of cancer. If caught early, pancreatic cancer is potentially curable, but most people don’t experience symptoms until the disease has spread. Regular screenings for high-risk patients means more treatment options if cancer is found.

Schedule a Screening

Who Needs a Pancreatic Cancer Screening?

Those with a family history of pancreatic cancer. Patients with one first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child or multiple second degree relatives (grandparents, aunts, uncles, grandchildren, half siblings) with pancreatic cancer qualify for screening.
Those with positive genetic markers from genetic testing including BRCA-1, BRCA-2 (genes associated with breast cancer), ATM, PALB-2, FAMMM, von Hippel-Lindau disease, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome or Lynch syndrome.

Why Should I Get a Pancreatic Cancer Screening?

Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Individuals in high-risk groups may benefit from participating in annual screenings to catch early signs of cancer while it is most treatable.

What To Expect

Experts work together to create a long-term screening plan for those at high-risk. The process includes the following:

Initial Evaluation – Our team will schedule a phone consultation with you to determine your risk level by reviewing your family and health history.

First Appointment – If you qualify, you will meet with a physician to discuss pancreatic cancer and the imaging and genetic tests involved.

Genetic Testing – Many patients will require genetic testing with a genetic counselor at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. Genetic testing is done through a simple cheek swab or blood test.

Annual Imaging – Based on your risk level your doctor may recommend a yearly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the pancreas and/or an endoscopic ultrasound of the pancreas (EUS) to help detect pancreatic tumors early.