Pancreatic Cancer High Risk Clinic

Surveillance and Preventative Options

Detecting pancreatic tumors early can improve survival. Although most people do not develop symptoms until the disease is advanced, some individuals are at higher risk for pancreatic cancer and may be eligible for regular screening to find cancer as early as possible.

The Brenden-Colson Center for Pancreatic Care initiated and supports the High Risk Clinic within the OHSU Digestive Health Center to serve these patients and their family members. OHSU physicians provide guidance on lifestyle changes to help lower risk and offer ongoing surveillance. The BCCPC also follows these individuals long term through our early detection research program.

Meet the Team

Program Leaders

Genetic Counseling

Want to join the High Risk Clinic?

Do any of the following apply to you?

  • A family history of pancreatic cancer:
    • A first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at age 45 or younger
    • Two or more first-degree relatives with pancreatic cancer
    • One first-degree relative with pancreatic cancer and two second-degree relatives with other cancers
  • Sudden onset of diabetes after age 50, without known risk factors for diabetes
  • Hereditary pancreatitis
  • A known genetic mutation, such as:
    • ATM (Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutation)
    • BRCA1 or BRCA2
    • Familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome
    • Li-Fraumeni syndrome
    • Lynch syndrome
    • Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
  • Certain types of pancreatic cysts

If any of these apply to you, you may be eligible for care through our High Risk Clinic. Our team would be glad to meet with you and discuss your options.

At the OHSU Pancreatic Cancer High Risk Clinic, you will receive a comprehensive physical exam and review your detailed personal and family medical history. You will also discuss risk factors for pancreatic cancer, such as smoking, alcohol use, exercise, and nutrition.

Based on this assessment, we may recommend additional screening options, including:

  • Imaging studies – Non-invasive scans such as MRI or CT to look for early signs of disease
  • Endoscopic ultrasound – A specialized procedure to closely examine the pancreas for tumors or cysts
  • Genetic testing and counseling – To find out whether you have a genetic change that could increase your risk of pancreatic cancer. Please note: having a genetic alteration does not mean you will definitely develop pancreatic cancer. Likewise, not having one does not guarantee you won’t.

You may also be eligible to take part in early detection clinical trials in the future.

If you believe you may be eligible for the High Risk Clinic, please talk with your primary care provider about a referral to OHSU’s Pancreatic Cancer High Risk Clinic, or call the OHSU Digestive Health Center at (503) 494-4373.