Scientists from Oregon Health & Science University have developed a blood test called PAC-MANN that is said to be less invasive, cheaper and more robust than traditional screening methods for pancreatic cancer, potentially leading to more treatment options and better outcomes.
“The problem with pancreatic cancer is that we often catch it too late,” said Jared Fischer, a scientist with OHSU Knight Cancer Institute’s Cancer Early Detection Advanced Research Center (CEDAR).
“Our goal with PAC-MANN is to give clinicians a tool that can detect the disease much earlier, when more treatment options are available and there is a better chance of survival,” Fischer added.
The pancreas, a gland situated behind the stomach, produces digestive enzymes that break down food and secretes hormones like insulin to regulate blood sugar.
The exact cause of pancreatic cancer is unknown, but some genetic syndromes, smoking, obesity, diabetes, chronic pancreatitis and excessive alcohol use can raise your risk.
Pancreatic cancer is often discovered in advanced stages because it doesn’t usually cause symptoms until it has spread to other organs, limiting treatment options.