Pancreatic Cancer Care

The Rush Approach to Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

We understand that every pancreatic cancer is unique — and that every person we treat needs a care plan designed for their distinct needs. Here, you’ll find a care team who will guide, support and listen to you through every step of your care.

We offer the most advanced treatments for pancreatic cancer — including surgery, chemotherapies, radiation therapies, immunotherapies and clinical trials.

At the same time, we take a holistic approach to treating pancreatic cancer. We are dedicated to providing you with the following:

• Comprehensive, well-coordinated medical and surgical care
• Social and emotional support
• Pain management services
• Nutritional support

Should I Get Screened for Pancreatic Cancer?

Screenings help catch cancer early. And while there are no widely accepted protocols for pancreatic cancer screening, it’s recommended for anyone who is at high risk.

If you meet one or more of the following criteria, you're considered to be at high risk for pancreatic cancer and eligible for screening:

• You have a family history of pancreatic cancer.
• You tested positive for a genetic mutation linked to pancreatic cancer.
• You have multiple family members (on one side of the family) who were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer — even if a known genetic mutation is not found.

If you meet any of the criteria, screening may include an annual MRI and/or endoscopy. If you are not sure if you qualify, talk to your doctor about your family history and the benefits and risks of pancreatic cancer screening.

To schedule your pancreatic cancer screening, talk to your doctor or call (312) 942-5904.

Rush Excellence in Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

• Nationally ranked cancer care: U.S. News & World Report has ranked Rush University Medical Center among the best in the nation for cancer care.
• Designated center of excellence: When you come to Rush for pancreatic cancer care, your quality of life is our top priority — focusing care on your mind, body and spirit. This approach led Rush University Medical Center to be designated as a National Pancreas Foundation Center of Excellence. This designation recognizes Rush's multidisciplinary treatment of pancreatic cancer, treating you with a focus on best outcomes and improved quality of life. Rush is the first health system in Illinois to earn this designation.
• Advanced diagnostics: Getting a quick, accurate diagnosis is crucial to your pancreatic cancer care. Our expert team specializes in staging studies, including axial imaging and diagnostic modalities including endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) — all of which can diagnose pancreatic cancer and guide stage-appropriate treatments for your unique needs.
• Surgical expertise: Often, surgery is your best option for long-term survival for pancreatic cancer. Our surgical oncologists are among the most experienced in the nation, performing complex pancreas surgery including robotic surgery.
• Clinical trials: As one of the leading academic health systems in the country, Rush clinicians are also researchers who are looking at new ways to effectively treat pancreatic cancer. That means you may have access to clinical trials and treatments that are not widely available.