|
We recognize World Cancer Day as we continue our mission
to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer. While the survival rate is much
lower than other cancers, it has increased to 11% over the past 2 years.
Thank you for helping us change lives by giving pancreatic cancer
patients more time with their loved ones!
It's important to know your family history of pancreatic
cancer and other cancers. Your doctor can use that information to
determine if you should have genetic testing.
If you have a first-degree relative (parent, child or sibling) diagnosed
with the disease, PanCAN and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommend they test for inherited
mutations. Then you can take measures to know your own inherited risk.
|
|
Consult a genetic counselor about testing for inherited
risk if:
- Your first-degree family
member is found to have an inherited mutation
- You don’t know your
family member’s genetic test results
- Your family member cannot
be tested
- You have several close
relatives with cancer
If you’re found to be at elevated risk, plan to be
proactive about your health now that you know.
- Become especially aware
of your body and any changes or pancreatic cancer symptoms (i.e.,
back or abdomen pain, weight loss, jaundice, nausea, etc.) that
could indicate illness
- Contact PanCAN’s Patient Services about
screening and surveillance programs
- Reduce your risk of
developing pancreatic cancer by quitting smoking and maintaining a
healthy weight and lifestyle
Knowledge of your potential risk for pancreatic cancer
gives you power. And we’ve made it easy to learn where you stand.
Remember, being at elevated risk doesn’t mean you’ll get the disease, but
should it develop, it’s best to diagnose it in its earliest, most
treatable stages.
Are you or your family at an increased risk? Share this simple test with your loved ones and
find out.
|
No comments:
Post a Comment