Up to 10 percent of pancreatic cancers are inherited from parent to child. We are learning about specific instructions in DNA, called genes, that are associated with inherited cancers.
Individuals with 2 or more first degree relatives (parent, sibling, or child) who have had pancreatic cancer have an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
Individuals with 3 or more close relatives (aunts, uncles, grandparents) are also at risk.
In addition, there are some inherited genes that are associated with an increased risk of multiple cancers. Individuals who have a young family member under the age of 50 with any of the following cancers: breast, pancreatic, colon cancer, or melanoma, should have a discussion with their physician to determine if they are at increased risk for an inherited cancer.
Johns Hopkins experts are studying family risk and causes for pancreatic cancer. The National Familial Pancreas Tumor Registry at Johns Hopkins began in 1994 when the importance of familial clustering and pancreatic cancer was recognized. We believe that there is likely to be a genetic cause behind this clustering. With our research in hand, we are working on ways to improve our methods of genetic counseling and screening methods for pancreatic cancer.
We are also on the hunt for additional pancreatic cancer genes through genotyping technology and gene sequencing.
Individuals with 2 or more first degree relatives (parent, sibling, or child) who have had pancreatic cancer have an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
Individuals with 3 or more close relatives (aunts, uncles, grandparents) are also at risk.
In addition, there are some inherited genes that are associated with an increased risk of multiple cancers. Individuals who have a young family member under the age of 50 with any of the following cancers: breast, pancreatic, colon cancer, or melanoma, should have a discussion with their physician to determine if they are at increased risk for an inherited cancer.
Johns Hopkins experts are studying family risk and causes for pancreatic cancer. The National Familial Pancreas Tumor Registry at Johns Hopkins began in 1994 when the importance of familial clustering and pancreatic cancer was recognized. We believe that there is likely to be a genetic cause behind this clustering. With our research in hand, we are working on ways to improve our methods of genetic counseling and screening methods for pancreatic cancer.
We are also on the hunt for additional pancreatic cancer genes through genotyping technology and gene sequencing.
