Genetic Testing for Hereditary Pancreatic Cancer
Genetic Testing for Pancreatic Cancer Genes
Genetic testing can identify people with inherited mutations that increase their risk for pancreatic and other types of cancer.
Why should people with pancreatic cancer get genetic testing?
About 10% of people with pancreatic cancer have an linked to cancer risk.
- Genetic test results may affect your cancer treatment options, including allowing you access to newer therapies or to avoid therapies that are less likely to help you.
- Genetic test results may help you and your relatives understand the risk for cancer and take action to stay healthy.
- If you test positive for an , you may have an increased risk for other cancers.
- Your test may allow relatives to learn if they are at increased or average risk for cancer.
- Expert guidelines outline cancer screening options for people who test positive for a mutation linked to pancreatic cancer risk.
Should relatives of people with pancreatic cancer get genetic testing?
Yes. National expert guidelines recommend people should speak with a genetics expert about genetic testing if they have any of the following:
- a 1st-degree relative diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at any age.
- a personal history of breast, ovarian or cancer and a 1st-, 2nd- or 3rd-degree relative with pancreatic cancer.
- ancestry and a 1st-, 2nd- or 3rd-degree relative with pancreatic cancer.
Other criteria may apply. A genetics expert can help you determine if genetic testing is right for you.
What are the benefits of genetic testing for relatives of people with pancreatic cancer?
Genetic test results may help people with a family history of pancreatic cancer understand their risk for cancer.
- If you test positive for an , you may have an increased risk for other cancers in addition to pancreatic cancer.
- If you test positive, you may have access to additional cancer screening and prevention options.
- Your test result may allow other relatives to learn if they are at increased or average risk for cancer.
Should people who had genetic testing in the past have repeat testing?
People who had genetic testing in the past may benefit from additional genetic counseling and expanded genetic testing if they previously tested negative, and:
- they had a test that only looked for one or a few genes, or
- they had genetic testing before 2014. Genetic testing has improved, and laboratories can now find gene mutations that may have previously been missed.
Which genes are linked to pancreatic cancer?
Mutations in the genes listed below are associated with an increased risk for pancreatic cancer. The risks vary by gene. See our section with details for each gene to learn more.
How do I get genetic testing for hereditary pancreatic cancer?
Genetic testing is a type of blood or saliva test performed on blood, saliva or tissue. The sample is collected and sent to a genetic testing lab. A doctor or nurse with expertise in genetics or a genetic counselor can help you get genetic testing. You can read more about the process here.