Pancreatic Cancer Tests and Screenings: What You Need to Know

October 22, 2025

Precede Foundation

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging cancers to detect early. Because the pancreas sits deep within the abdomen, tumors often go unnoticed until they cause symptoms or spread to other organs. At that point, treatment becomes more difficult and survival rates decline. This makes early testing and screening approaches critically important, especially for individuals at higher risk. While there is currently no single universal screening test for pancreatic cancer, several diagnostic tools and strategies can help identify it earlier than ever before.

Imaging Tests

One of the most common ways to evaluate the pancreas is through imaging. Techniques such as CT (computed tomography) scans, MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging), and PET scans provide detailed pictures of the pancreas and surrounding structures. These tests can reveal tumors, cysts, or changes in tissue density. Another powerful option is the endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), which uses a thin tube with an ultrasound probe to create high-resolution images of the pancreas from inside the digestive tract.

Blood Tests

While no blood test can definitively diagnose pancreatic cancer, certain biomarkers can signal potential problems. The most widely used is CA19-9, a tumor marker that is often elevated in people with pancreatic cancer. However, it is not perfect—levels may rise due to other conditions, and some patients with pancreatic cancer never show elevated CA19-9. For this reason, blood tests are usually used in combination with imaging or to monitor disease progression rather than as standalone screening tools.

Genetic and Family History Testing

Individuals with a strong family history of pancreatic cancer or known genetic mutations may benefit from genetic testing. Mutations in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, and CDKN2A are linked to an increased risk. Genetic counseling can help determine whether testing is appropriate and guide decisions about screening frequency and preventive care.

Clinical Trials and Emerging Approaches

Researchers are actively developing new ways to detect pancreatic cancer earlier. Clinical trials are testing cutting-edge approaches, including liquid biopsies (blood tests that look for tumor DNA), advanced imaging technologies, and novel biomarkers. Participating in these trials not only provides access to the latest tools but also supports progress toward better outcomes for all patients.

Who Should Consider Screening?

Because universal screening is not yet practical, testing is usually recommended for individuals with higher risk profiles. This includes those with:

A family history of pancreatic cancer
Genetic mutations linked to cancer risk
A history of chronic pancreatitis
Newly diagnosed, unexplained diabetes in older adults

These groups may undergo more frequent imaging or blood testing as part of a proactive monitoring plan.

Conclusion

While pancreatic cancer remains a difficult disease to detect early, advances in imaging, blood testing, and genetic screening offer growing hope. For people at higher risk, discussing screening options with a healthcare provider can lead to earlier detection and better treatment outcomes. Continued research and participation in clinical trials are essential for developing more reliable, accessible, and effective tools in the fight against pancreatic cancer.

Knowing When To Ask For Help

There’s strength in recognizing when you need additional support. If you’re feeling consistently overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, it may be time to speak with a healthcare professional. Warning signs can include ongoing sleep trouble, loss of appetite, or emotional numbness.

Mental health care is an important part of cancer recovery. There are therapists, social workers, and cancer-specific counselors trained to support your unique needs. Don’t hesitate to seek them out.

Your medical team can help adjust medications or recommend physical therapy if your symptoms are impacting your daily life. Being honest about your struggles allows your care providers to offer better, more personalized support.

The path to recovery from pancreatic cancer is rarely straightforward. It’s a mix of triumphs and setbacks, strength and vulnerability. But through each high and low, healing is happening. Be gentle with yourself. Allow space for rest, reflection, and growth.

You don’t have to go through this journey alone. With the right support, emotional, physical, and practical, you can move forward, one step at a time. And remember, every day you show up for yourself is a victory.

At TrovaNOW, we’re focused on finding a cure for pancreatic cancer. Every test and discovery brings us closer to better treatments and saving lives. Join us and learn more at TrovaNOW.