Cross-sectional view in a fused PET/CT scan shows a cancerous "hotspot" in the pancreas of a patient with jaundice.
Inherited gene mutations play a role in up to 25% of cases of pancreatic cancer.
There is up to a 20-fold increase in the risk of pancreatic cancer in individuals with a family history of the disease.
At least five distinct cancer syndromes account for a number of inherited pancreatic cancers:
Early-onset familial breast cancer syndrome due to BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations;
Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer syndrome (HNPCC); and
Hereditary pancreatitis.
The Muzzi Mirza Pancreatic Cancer Prevention and Genetics Program of the Pancreas Center at Columbia University, under the leadership of Harold Frucht, MD, Program Director, analyzes family and personal medical history and provides recommendations for pancreatic cancer screening, genetic counseling, and testing as appropriate. If there is a significant genetic risk, the center provides guidance and recommends an ongoing testing regimen so that patients may ultimately avoid the disease.
This testing regimen involves imaging the pancreas with sensitive instruments to detect pre-cancerous abnormalities or small cancers that are surgically curable.
APPOINTMENT CENTER
What to expect from an appointment with a specialist:
Pancreas Center patients have access to a highly experienced, multi-disciplinary team of gastroentorologists, oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, nurse practitioners, geneticists, genetic counselors and nutritionists.
You can play a more active role in your own health care, gain access to innovative therapies before they become widely available, and help others by contributing to advancements in medical research by participating in clinical trials.
Preparing for Your Stay
During Your Stay