Precede Foundation
Blog, News & Events

In the fight against pancreatic cancer, early detection is a very crucial ally, yet it remains elusive. Late-stage diagnoses limit treatment options, emphasizing the need for breakthroughs in early detection. Through personal stories of triumph, we find sources of inspiration, highlighting the transformative power of detecting pancreatic cancer early. These narratives illuminate a path where early detection becomes not just a medical strategy but a lifeline that can alter the trajectory of pancreatic cancer from despair to resilience. 

As we delve into these personal stories of triumph, we want to illustrate the importance of early detection as more than a medical strategy; it’s a transformative force that turns stories of overcoming challenges into narratives of survival and strength. Through these stories, we want to inspire, teach and help everyone understand that the journey towards improved survival rates for pancreatic cancer begins with realizing the importance of the power of early detection.

Come with us as we explore inspiring stories of hope and strength—a journey through overcoming challenges, celebrating saved lives and the determined effort to recognize how crucial early detection can truly change the narrative of pancreatic cancer.

1. Ivy Duneier – Early Detection Of Pancreatic Cancer Saved My Life:

Ivy’s journey starts with her taking charge of her health. Initially diagnosed with pancreatitis, Ivy found relief when she followed a bland diet suggested by her gastroenterologist. But everything changed when Dr. Simeone got involved. Rather than accepting the initial diagnosis, Dr. Simeone persisted in exploring into the cause of Ivy’s discomfort. The result? Early detection of pancreatic cancer. Ivy stresses, “If I had waited another 6 months to see her, the cancer would have been at a later stage and my story would have ended very differently.” This powerful testimony illustrates the profound impact early detection can have on the trajectory of pancreatic cancer, turning a potentially devastating outcome into a story of survival.

2. Betty Dicker – I’m A BRCA-Positive And Survived Both Breast And Pancreatic Cancers:

Betty’s narrative unfolds on different aspects in the fight against cancer, genetic awareness and a commitment to early detection. Being BRCA positive, Betty faces the challenges of both breast and pancreatic cancers. A critical decision to undergo deep inferior epigastric perforator reconstruction surgery after breast removal unknowingly played an important role in saving her life from another life-threatening disease—pancreatic cancer. Betty’s story highlights the profound impact that early detection, proactive genetic testing and vigilant surveillance can have on not just one, but on different aspects of the battle against cancer.

3. Jamie Brickell – TrovaNow President And Pancreatic Cancer Survivor:

As TrovaNOW’s President, Jamie Brickell shares a remarkable story of pancreatic cancer diagnosis, treatment and triumph. Diagnosed in March 2020, Jamie’s journey introduces us to Dr. Diane Simeone and the team at NYU Langone Hospital. Within a week of diagnosis, Jamie started chemotherapy sessions, leading to a successful Whipple operation in July. Less than eight months after the initial diagnosis, Jamie received the life-changing news of being cancer-free. His story stands as a testament to the positive outcomes achievable when early detection becomes the basis of the battle against pancreatic cancer. 

Facing a disease where the odds are often stacked against patients—only 25% surviving one year and fewer than 10% reaching the five-year mark—Jamie’s story highlights the critical importance of early detection. Recognizing the significance of this, Jamie felt compelled to contribute to the cause. Inspired by the work of his surgeon, Dr. Diane Simeone,  who helped found PRECEDE with a mission to raising the five-year survival rate to 50%, Jamie decided to actively participate and make a difference in any way he could.

Jamie’s journey is a call for increased awareness, research and support for organizations dedicated to early detection. His commitment is a source of hope for those dealing with the challenges of pancreatic cancer.

4. Stuart Rickerson – TrovaNow Board Member And Pancreatic Cancer Survivor Commitment to Change:

Stuart’s story extends beyond personal triumph to a commitment to change the narrative around pancreatic cancer. Designating himself as a leader in transforming the perception of pancreatic cancer from a “deadly diagnosis” to a “chronic condition,” Stuart emphasizes how important early detection is in this shift. His journey not only highlights the urgency for increased survival rates but also invites us to consider the transformative potential of early detection initiatives. Stuart’s narrative calls for collective action, urging readers to join the cause through small but impactful contributions.

5. Laurie MacCaskill – 18 Years As A Pancreatic Cancer Survivor:

Laurie’s story echoes with resilience, gratitude and a celebration of life. Diagnosed 18 years ago, Laurie overcame the challenging statistics associated with pancreatic cancer. Embracing the gift of time, Laurie shares her journey of not just surviving but thriving. Facing cancer twice, Laurie’s perspective on life has been profoundly shaped by her experiences. Her story serves as a testament to the strength that arises from adversity and the transformative power of early detection, which enabled her to celebrate nearly two decades as a pancreatic cancer survivor.

These stories together, forming a picture of overcoming pancreatic cancer, extend beyond individual experiences. They represent hope and as we traverse through personal triumph over pancreatic cancer, a common thread emerges—the undeniable impact of early detection. 

As we delve into these stories, the overarching message becomes clear: early detection can be a game-changer. By sharing these narratives, we aim to inspire and inform. The path towards improved survival rates for pancreatic cancer begins with stories like these—stories that advocate for early detection, share triumphs over adversity and offer hope for a future where pancreatic cancer is detected early, treated effectively and lives are saved.

Explore more survivor stories on our website: https://www.trovanow.com/, each journey one of triumph over pancreatic cancer. Join us in rewriting the story of pancreatic cancer and witness not only the resilience that transforms these challenges into victories but also celebrate the strength of survivors and the progress made in early detection.

Your involvement matters and even a small donation can create a significant impact on our mission. By supporting TrovaNow, you contribute to ongoing research, awareness initiatives and the development of early detection methods. Together, let’s make a big impact on the fight against pancreatic cancer and hope for a future where more lives are saved. Join the cause and be a part of rewriting the story of pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging cancers to detect early, resulting in a staggeringly low 12.5% five-year survival rate in the United States. The urgency to find innovative approaches and methods is more pressing than ever. Over 64,000 new cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2023 alone, making it the third deadliest cancer in the country.

Early detection is a critical factor in the battle against cancer, especially for diseases like pancreatic cancer, where delayed diagnosis often leads to devastating outcomes. This blog explores recent developments and collaborations with a shared mission — to transform the landscape of pancreatic cancer detection and early screening methods, offering new hope for improved survival rates.

• Advancements in Liquid Biopsy and Molecular Testing

Recent collaborations have introduced innovative approaches to early detection, utilizing liquid biopsy techniques and molecular testing. These technologies aim to detect specific biomarkers associated with pancreatic cancer through non-invasive means, such as blood tests. 

Investigating biomarkers is one strategy for the early detection of pancreatic cancer. Researchers are looking for biomarkers that would help distinguish a person with undiagnosed pancreatic cancer from someone without the disease. People with a disease, compared to healthy people, sometimes have unusual levels of certain biomarkers.

Liquid biopsies, a growing field, involve the analysis of genetic material, such as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), circulating tumor cells (CTCs) or exosomes found in bodily fluids. These non-invasive tests hold immense potential for routine monitoring, offering a convenient and accessible way to identify cancer-related changes at an early stage.

The collaboration between the PRECEDE Consortium and industry partners signifies a dedicated effort to accelerate the detection of pancreatic cancer at stages I or II, where treatment options are more viable. Driven by the goal to increase the survival rate from 12.5% to 50%, this partnership holds promise in significantly improving surveillance and transforming our ability to detect pancreatic cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.

• DNA-Based Blood Tests

These DNA-based blood tests are designed to assess epigenomic and genomic alterations associated with cancer and are emerging as powerful tools in the early detection arsenal. By analyzing specific DNA signals and using machine learning algorithms, these tests can identify abnormal patterns indicative of early-stage pancreatic cancer or high-grade dysplasia. These tools will help us progress to our goal of detecting cancer earlier, especially in high-risk individuals, when life-saving treatment is more likely to succeed.

PRECEDE’s collaboration efforts, supported by TrovaNow, are an integral part of the consortium’s observational longitudinal prospective cohort study, which has already enrolled over 5,600 participants globally. The goal is to use the test as a surveillance tool alongside standard imaging, to further validate and expand its use in various high-risk groups.

• Artificial Intelligence in Imaging

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in imaging processes is enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of cancer detection, leading the way for more better and reliable diagnostic methods. AI algorithms can analyze medical images, such as CT scans or MRIs very quickly and accurately, aiding clinicians in identifying potential abnormalities that may be indicative of early-stage cancer.

Collaborative Approach

The unique model of collaboration and data sharing within the PRECEDE Consortium is a unique approach that demonstrates how the medical community can tackle complex challenges like pancreatic cancer by working together. With over 40 academic medical centers and more than 5,600 high-risk study participants involved, the consortium exemplifies the power of collective intelligence in advancing cancer research.

Potential Impact on Pancreatic Cancer Survival Rates

All the work being done by the PRECEDE Consortium in the area of early detection share a common mission — to increase the survival rate for pancreatic cancer from 12% to 50% within the next decade. The significance of these partnerships lies not only in their potential to revolutionize early detection but also in their commitment to achieving this ambitious goal through collaborative efforts.

The integration of these technologies into early cancer detection efforts carries the potential to significantly impact pancreatic cancer survival rates. By identifying the disease at its earliest, most treatable stages, patients may have access to a broader of treatment options, ultimately improving their chances of survival.

Advantages and Future Prospects

The advantages of these emerging technologies are evident: non-invasiveness, accessibility and the potential for earlier diagnosis. As these methods continue to evolve, there is hope that they will become instrumental in transforming the prognosis of pancreatic cancer and potentially other forms of cancer as well.

The recent collaborations with the PRECEDE Consortium represent significant progress in the quest for early pancreatic cancer detection. As these technologies improve, there is hope for a future where pancreatic cancer can be diagnosed and treated at its earliest, most manageable stages, significantly improving the survival rates for those at risk.

The developments of liquid biopsy techniques, DNA-based blood tests and AI in imaging showcases a multi-faceted approach that holds the promise of revolutionizing not just pancreatic cancer but also for other types of cancer.

Stay informed about the latest advancements in early cancer detection, support ongoing research initiatives or organizations working tirelessly to improve cancer survival rates and advocate for increased awareness. Together, we can contribute to a future where early detection becomes a crucial part of the fight against cancer, bringing about improved outcomes for increased chances of survival for patients worldwide.

Learn How You Can Get Involved And Donate Today

Not going down without a fight, especially when it comes to pancreatic cancer! Every challenge we face is an opportunity to grow stronger and more resilient in the battle against this relentless disease.

TrovaNOW proceeds go towards collaborative research to detect pancreatic cancers earlier, saving thousands of lives from the world’s deadliest cancer. Our goal is to raise $1,000,000 to help fund the Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection (PRECEDE) Consortium – an innovation hub that welcomes collaboration, while also disseminating new protocols and scientific discoveries.

To be part of this impactful movement, visit www.trovanow.com. Discover how you can contribute, get involved and make a positive difference. Your support today can contribute to a future where pancreatic cancer is detected early, treated effectively and lives are saved. Join us in the fight against pancreatic cancer — together, we can make a lasting impact.

Imagine driving a car without ever getting it serviced or checked for potential issues. Over time, the engine may wear out and problems may arise that could have been prevented with regular maintenance. The same concept applies to our bodies. Regular health check-ups are the equivalent of routine maintenance for our well-being. They play an important role in making sure that any potential health issues are detected early, allowing for timely interventions and a healthier, happier life.

The Benefits of Regular Health Check-Ups

• Early Disease Detection

One of the most significant advantages of regular health check-ups is the early detection of diseases. Many serious health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension and even cancer, often develop without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. When you notice symptoms, the disease might already be advanced. Regular health check-ups, including screenings and blood tests, can identify these conditions in their infancy when they are often more treatable and manageable.

For example, routine blood pressure checks can catch hypertension or high blood pressure before it leads to severe cardiovascular problems. Early detection and intervention can prevent heart attacks, strokes and other complications associated with uncontrolled hypertension.

• Preventative Care

Preventative care is another critical aspect of health check-ups. During these visits, doctors can give advice on staying healthy – including diet, exercise and stress management. They can also administer vaccinations and screenings to protect against various illnesses. Vaccinations are a great way to prevent illness, it is a prime example of preventive care. Regular check-ups ensure that you are up-to-date with recommended vaccinations, protecting you from potentially life-threatening diseases like influenza, hepatitis and measles.

• Personalized Health Management

Each person is unique, with different genetic backgrounds, lifestyles and risk factors for various health conditions. Regular health check-ups allow healthcare providers to customize health plans to meet individual needs. For example, if you have a family history of diabetes, your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent screenings and lifestyle modifications to reduce your risk.

Moreover, risk assessment is an essential part of personalized health management. During check-ups, healthcare professionals assess your overall health, considering factors such as age, gender, family history and lifestyle. This assessment helps in identifying areas where you may be at higher risk and need more focused attention.

Regular Health Check-Ups and How Often to Get Them

To get the benefits of regular health check-ups, it’s important to know which tests you need and how often to do them. Here are some typical examinations and how often doctors usually recommend them:

• General Physical Examination

This is a comprehensive physical examination that is typically recommended annually. Even if you feel healthy. This examination involves checking your vital signs (Blood pressure, heart rate and respiratory rate), evaluating your overall health and discussing any concerns or symptoms you may have.

• Blood Pressure Monitoring

Keeping an eye on your blood pressure is really important especially if you have risk factors for hypertension. Doctors usually recommend checking it once a year, but if you already have high blood pressure or other heart problems, you might need to check it more often.

• Cholesterol Level Checks

Cholesterol levels are important indicators of heart health. Adults should have their cholesterol levels checked every 4 to 6 years and if you have specific risk factors, such as a family history of heart disease or obesity, more frequent checks may be necessary.

• Diabetes Screening

Diabetes is becoming a big health issue around the world. It is recommended to get tested every 3 years especially if you’re 45 or older. You may also need tests if you are overweight or not participating in regular physical activity.

• Cancer Screenings

Cancer screenings such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and Pap smears, are vital for early cancer detection. The recommended screenings for these vary by age, gender and individual risk factors. Discuss your specific needs with your healthcare provider, but be aware of the potential life-saving benefits of early cancer detection.

• Dental and Eye Exams

Don’t forget about the health of your eyes and mouth. Regular dental check-ups every 6 months can help prevent dental problems like cavities and gum disease. Eye exams should be done as your optometrist recommends to ensure proper vision and eye health.

Regular health check-ups are an important part of preventive healthcare, offering early disease detection, preventative care and personalized health management. By adopting these strategies to make check-ups a habit, individuals can prioritize their well-being and enjoy healthier lives. In particular, regular check-ups play a crucial role in early detection, not only for common conditions but also for more specific health concerns like pancreatic cancer diagnosis. 

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness

Pancreatic cancer is often challenging to diagnose in its early stages, making pancreatic cancer early detection blood test and regular check-ups even more essential. Pancreatic cancer screening can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. It often presents with few early symptoms and by the time symptoms become noticeable, the cancer may have already advanced. Regular check-ups can identify potential health issues early on, allowing for timely intervention and improved treatment outcomes.

Pancreatic cancer screening is usually reserved for individuals with a higher risk due to factors such as a family history of pancreatic cancer or certain genetic syndromes. In these high-risk individuals, pancreatic cancer screening may involve imaging tests such as MRI or endoscopic ultrasound.

Find a healthcare provider near you if you don’t already have one. Review your health insurance coverage and explore options for low-cost or free check-ups if needed. Be especially vigilant about specific screenings and tests for conditions like pancreatic cancer diagnosis, as early detection can be life-saving. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate screenings based on your individual risk factors and medical history.

Don’t wait until you’re experiencing pancreatic cancer symptoms or facing a health crisis. Start scheduling your regular health check-ups today and take control of your health journey. Your future self will thank you for it.

Donate To Pancreatic Cancer Research

Early detection is crucial for overcoming pancreatic cancer, enabling life-saving surgeries and significantly improving survival rates. TrovaNow actively funds research focused on early detection, screening and prevention, contributing to the fight against the world’s deadliest cancer

Our goal is to raise $250,000 to help fund the PRECEDE Consortium. Visit www.trovanow.com to learn how you can get involved and donate today. Together, we can make a difference.

November marks Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, a dedicated period to cast a spotlight on a disease that often operates in the shadows. November is a special month for everyone affected by pancreatic cancer. It is our opportunity to elevate our voices to raise awareness, it is a time to educate the world by sharing our stories and support research. Let’s come together, speak up and show our determination to never give up.

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer 

Pancreatic cancer diagnosis is a formidable adversary, often identified at advanced stages, making it one of the most challenging cancers to treat effectively. The pancreas is located behind the stomach. It plays a vital role in digestion and also blood sugar regulation. Pancreatic cancer arises when abnormal cells uncontrollably multiply within the pancreas, forming tumors. A new study found that it takes about 7 years for a pancreatic tumor to become sizable and around 10 years for that tumor to metastasize or spread to other parts of the body. The lack of early symptoms and efficient screening methods intensifies the urgency for increased awareness.

The Impact of Pancreatic Cancer 

Numbers tell a clear story — pancreatic cancer is one of the most deadly cancers with a very low survival rate. Every year, thousands face the impact of this disease and their lives are changed forever. Stories from real people show the emotional and physical toll on patients and their families. This highlights the urgent need for more awareness and increased research to change the path of pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic Cancer Risk Factors and Prevention 

Understanding the pancreatic cancer risk factors is crucial for prevention. Age, family history and smoking are common risk factors associated with pancreatic cancer. Only about 1 in 5 individuals have a tumor that can be surgically removed. Even among that subset, pancreatic cancer rebounds 75% of the time. Right now, surgery is the best way to treat pancreatic cancer. But, most patients are diagnosed at later stages and are not eligible for surgery. We urgently need to develop tools and tests for early detection of pancreatic cancer. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise, contribute to prevention. We’re still learning how these factors affect pancreatic cancer, but starting with a healthy lifestyle is the first step to overall well-being. Increasing awareness of these factors empowers individuals to take proactive measures in reducing their susceptibility to this insidious disease.

Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as other factors, treatment options for people with pancreatic cancer can involve surgery of the pancreas, ablation or embolization treatments, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms and Early Detection

Common indicators include abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss and jaundice. Given the subtlety of these signs, it is imperative for individuals to remain vigilant and promptly seek medical attention. While effective screening tools are currently limited, awareness of symptoms remains an important weapon in the ongoing battle against pancreatic cancer. If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor for a thorough evaluation.

TrovaNow’s Role in Pancreatic Cancer Awareness 

In its mission to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer, TrovaNow is dedicated to supporting initiatives like the PRECEDE Consortium. Recognizing the vital role of collaborative efforts in advancing early detection and prevention strategies for pancreatic cancer, TrovaNow actively promotes the dissemination of new protocols and discoveries from the PRECEDE Consortium.

This groundbreaking initiative, an observational longitudinal prospective cohort study, unites clinicians, researchers, patients and industry leaders to accelerate innovative approaches for pancreatic cancer early detection and prevention.

By supporting a technology-rich and data-driven model of research, TrovaNow aims to amplify the impact of pancreatic cancer early detection and prevention efforts. Through initiatives like the PRECEDE Consortium, TrovaNow maximizes the identification of high-risk individuals, advances research and contributes to strategic plans for pancreatic cancer prevention.

As Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month progresses, let’s reflect on the importance of united action. Understanding the challenges and supporting campaigns can collectively contribute to the ongoing battle against pancreatic cancer. Together, we can make strides toward early detection, improved treatments and ultimately, better outcomes for those facing this tough challenge.

To align with TrovaNow’s commitment to advancing pancreatic cancer awareness, consider exploring and sharing information about initiatives like the PRECEDE Consortium. Engage with TrovaNow’s platform to stay updated on the latest protocols and discoveries in pancreatic cancer research.

Actively participating in Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month allows us to bring hope, support and progress to those affected by this silent killer. Joining events, sharing posts on social media and participating in local fundraisers all make a big difference, contributing to the collective effort in the ongoing battle against pancreatic cancer.

Donate To Pancreatic Cancer Research

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the top 3 cancer-related causes of death in the US and its incidence continues to rise, with a projected 50,000+ deaths by the end of this year. Pancreatic cancer survival rates show the percentage of people who live for at least 5 years after being diagnosed. The good news is, over time, the chance of the cancer coming back usually goes down. But remember, this varies for each person and type of cancer. At TrovaNow, we’re determined to change this trajectory. Committed to collaborative research to enhance pancreatic cancer early detection and prevention, our goal is to elevate the 5-year pancreatic cancer survival rate from 12% to 50% in the next decade.

With your help and donations, our research and data sharing can change the outcomes for patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. While pancreatic cancer is often considered the most lethal cancer in the human body, new treatment advances are improving outcomes for patients, offering the possibility of long-term survival. Discover more about how pancreatic cancer patients are prioritizing quality of life and contributing to advancements in pancreatic cancer treatment through research.

Visit www.trovanow.com to learn how you can get involved and donate today, joining us in the mission to make a meaningful impact on pancreatic cancer outcomes.