Pancreatic cancer often sparks many inquiries, but there is a growing sense of hope. Our platform links people to new cancer clinical trials, especially for pancreatic cancer. We make it easier for patients to find and join advanced medical studies, giving them access to new choices.
Massive Bio has onboarded over 160,000 cancer patients to find their clinical trial
Our system connects people with pancreatic cancer to clinical trials, giving them more opportunities and research. Within our platform, you will find in-depth information about clinical trials spanning all stages of pancreatic cancer. These trials offer novel options tailored to address the unique factors behind your pancreatic cancer diagnosis. This provides you with a chance to actively fight the disease alongside our team.
After checking your medical records and using our AI system, we find clinical trials that you might qualify for. We also offer a concierge service to help you smoothly transition into the clinical trial.
Our team of nurses and doctors will handle all aspects of your involvement in the trial, from start to finish. All the services provided are completely free for you and your treating oncologist.
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the pancreas, an organ located deep within the abdomen. It is often called a “silent” or “hidden” cancer because it tends to have few noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which makes it challenging to detect. Usually, this type of cancer is diagnosed when it is stage III pancreatic cancer or stage IV pancreatic cancer and it can cause various symptoms and signs.
Some of the main symptoms and signs of advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer include:
1-Abdominal Pain: This is one of the most common symptoms. It may start as mild discomfort and become more severe as the cancer grows. The pain is often located in the upper abdomen and may radiate to the back.
2-Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes can occur when the cancer obstructs the bile duct, causing a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream. This can lead to dark urine, pale stools, and itching.
3-Unexplained Weight Loss: Many individuals with pancreatic cancer experience unexplained and significant weight loss, even if their appetite remains normal.
4-Loss of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat and early satiety (feeling full after eating a small amount) can be associated with pancreatic cancer.
5-Digestive Problems: Pancreatic cancer can affect the normal functioning of the pancreas, leading to problems with digestion. This may cause diarrhea, oily or pale stools, and difficulty digesting fatty foods.
6-Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals with pancreatic cancer may experience nausea and vomiting, particularly if a blockage in the digestive system occurs.
7-New-Onset Diabetes: In some cases, pancreatic cancer can lead to the development of diabetes, especially if the tumor affects the pancreas’s ability to produce insulin.
8-Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained fatigue is a common symptom of many cancers, including pancreatic cancer.
Diagnosing pancreatic cancer involves a thorough process that includes medical history assessment, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies like CT scans and MRIs. If a potential tumor is identified, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis by examining tissue samples under a microscope. Pathology evaluation determines the type and stage of the cancer. Early detection is crucial, as it is often diagnosed as advanced pancreatic cancer, emphasizing the importance of regular medical check-ups, especially for those at risk.
Pancreatic cancer can be categorized into several types based on the type of cells from which the cancer originates. The two primary types of pancreatic cancer are:
1-Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type, accounting for approximately 90% of all pancreatic cancer cases. It originates in the cells lining the pancreatic ducts and is often found in the head of the pancreas. Pancreatic duct adenocarcinoma is known for its aggressive nature and is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage.
2-Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (PNETs): These tumors are much less common, accounting for about 1-2% of pancreatic cancers. PNETs develop from hormone-producing cells in the pancreas called islet cells. They tend to grow more slowly than adenocarcinomas and have a better prognosis on average. PNETs can be functional (produce hormones) or non-functional (do not produce hormones).
In addition to these primary types, there are some rare subtypes of pancreatic cancer, including:
Pancreatoblastoma: This is an extremely rare type of pancreatic cancer that usually occurs in children and adolescents. It develops from immature cells in the pancreas.
Acinar Cell Carcinoma: This is another rare type of pancreatic cancer that originates in the acinar cells of the pancreas, which are responsible for producing digestive enzymes.
Colloid Carcinoma: This is a subtype of pancreatic adenocarcinoma characterized by the production of mucus. It tends to have a better prognosis compared to typical pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Undifferentiated Carcinoma: These are aggressive tumors with poorly defined cell characteristics, making them difficult to classify.
Options for pancreatic cancer depends on cancer type, stage, patient’s health, and preferences. The options for pancreatic cancer typically include:
Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor offers the best chance of cure if the cancer is detected at an early stage and is localized to the pancreas. Surgical procedures may include:
Whipple procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy): Removal of the head of the pancreas, part of the small intestine, gallbladder, and bile duct.
Distal pancreatectomy: Removal of the tail and sometimes part of the body of the pancreas.
Total pancreatectomy: Removal of the entire pancreas.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors. It can be used before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or to relieve symptoms in advanced cases.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It can be administered before or after surgery and is often used in combination with radiation therapy.
Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy drugs specifically target molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. They are sometimes used in combination with chemotherapy or as a standalone treatment.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a newer approach that stimulates the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. While it has shown promise in other cancers, its role in pancreatic cancer treatment is still being studied.
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is vital in linking patients with specific genetic mutations in their cancers to clinical trials for targeted options. This method is a part of personalized medicine. It improves the success of trials.
These options are more likely to work for their specific type of cancer. Pancreatic cancer can be associated with various gene alterations that play a role in its development and progression. Some of the key gene alterations and mutations associated with pancreatic cancer include:
1-KRAS Mutation: The KRAS gene is frequently mutated in pancreatic cancer, with approximately 95% of cases showing this alteration. KRAS mutations are thought to be early events in pancreatic cancer development and play a key role in tumor growth and progression.
2-TP53 Mutation: Mutations in the TP53 tumor suppressor gene are also common in pancreatic cancer. These mutations can lead to uncontrolled cell division and increased resistance.
3-CDKN2A (p16) Mutation: Alterations in the CDKN2A gene can result in a loss of cell cycle regulation, allowing cancer cells to divide uncontrollably.
4-SMAD4 Mutation: Mutations in the SMAD4 gene are associated with more aggressive forms of pancreatic cancer. SMAD4 is involved in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation.
5-BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations: Mutations in these genes, which are well-known for their association with breast and ovarian cancers, can also increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Individuals with hereditary mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have a higher risk of pancreatic cancer.
6-PALB2 Mutation: PALB2 is another gene associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer when mutated. PALB2 plays a role in DNA repair.
7-ATM Mutation: Mutations in the ATM gene, which is involved in DNA repair, have been linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
8-MDM2 amplification: protein that regulates the activity of the p53 tumor suppressor gene, which plays a critical role in controlling cell growth and preventing the development of cancer.
Clinical trials play a crucial role in the pancreatic cancer for several reasons:
Access to Cutting-Edge Options: Clinical trials provide an avenue for individuals to access innovative options, which is particularly important for serious conditions like pancreatic cancer.
Improving Outcomes: Participation in clinical trials empowers patients to contribute valuable knowledge that can enhance survival rates and overall well-being for future pancreatic cancer patients.
Comprehensive Healthcare: Enrolled patients in clinical trials typically receive comprehensive care, benefiting from a dedicated team of healthcare professionals and researchers closely monitoring their progress.
Fostering Hope: For many individuals grappling with pancreatic cancer, involvement in a clinical trial fosters hope, both for their personal recovery and the potential positive impact on future patients facing similar challenges.
Advancing Research Frontiers: Clinical trials play a pivotal role in advancing medical research, aiding scientists in gauging the effectiveness of new options and identifying which patients stand to benefit the most. This can pave the way for the development of more effective strategies and personalized approaches.
Cancer is an unfortunate reality that touches most of us at some point in our lives. If you or a loved one has cancer, you may have heard or read that clinical trials could offer access to innovative new options. But what exactly is a clinical trial? In this video, Massive Bio co-founder Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla, MD, explains how clinical trials work, what to expect if you enroll in one, and why a clinical trial can be an important option for many cancer patients.
We dream of the day when cancer disappears from our lives. Massive Bio is working tirelessly on achieving that goal.
Our system connects people with pancreatic cancer to clinical trials, giving them more opportunities and research. Within our platform, you will find in-depth information about clinical trials spanning all stages of pancreatic cancer. These trials offer novel options tailored to address the unique factors behind your pancreatic cancer diagnosis. This provides you with a chance to actively fight the disease alongside our team.
After checking your medical records and using our AI system, we find clinical trials that you might qualify for. We also offer a concierge service to help you smoothly transition into the clinical trial.
Our team of nurses and doctors will handle all aspects of your involvement in the trial, from start to finish. All the services provided are completely free for you and your treating oncologist.
What is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the pancreas, an organ located deep within the abdomen. It is often called a “silent” or “hidden” cancer because it tends to have few noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which makes it challenging to detect. Usually, this type of cancer is diagnosed when it is stage III pancreatic cancer or stage IV pancreatic cancer and it can cause various symptoms and signs.
Some of the main symptoms and signs of advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer include:
1-Abdominal Pain: This is one of the most common symptoms. It may start as mild discomfort and become more severe as the cancer grows. The pain is often located in the upper abdomen and may radiate to the back.
2-Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes can occur when the cancer obstructs the bile duct, causing a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream. This can lead to dark urine, pale stools, and itching.
3-Unexplained Weight Loss: Many individuals with pancreatic cancer experience unexplained and significant weight loss, even if their appetite remains normal.
4-Loss of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat and early satiety (feeling full after eating a small amount) can be associated with pancreatic cancer.
5-Digestive Problems: Pancreatic cancer can affect the normal functioning of the pancreas, leading to problems with digestion. This may cause diarrhea, oily or pale stools, and difficulty digesting fatty foods.
6-Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals with pancreatic cancer may experience nausea and vomiting, particularly if a blockage in the digestive system occurs.
7-New-Onset Diabetes: In some cases, pancreatic cancer can lead to the development of diabetes, especially if the tumor affects the pancreas’s ability to produce insulin.
8-Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained fatigue is a common symptom of many cancers, including pancreatic cancer.
Diagnosing pancreatic cancer involves a thorough process that includes medical history assessment, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies like CT scans and MRIs. If a potential tumor is identified, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis by examining tissue samples under a microscope. Pathology evaluation determines the type and stage of the cancer. Early detection is crucial, as it is often diagnosed as advanced pancreatic cancer, emphasizing the importance of regular medical check-ups, especially for those at risk.
Pancreatic cancer can be categorized into several types based on the type of cells from which the cancer originates. The two primary types of pancreatic cancer are:
1-Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: This is the most common type, accounting for approximately 90% of all pancreatic cancer cases. It originates in the cells lining the pancreatic ducts and is often found in the head of the pancreas. Pancreatic duct adenocarcinoma is known for its aggressive nature and is typically diagnosed at an advanced stage.
2-Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (PNETs): These tumors are much less common, accounting for about 1-2% of pancreatic cancers. PNETs develop from hormone-producing cells in the pancreas called islet cells. They tend to grow more slowly than adenocarcinomas and have a better prognosis on average. PNETs can be functional (produce hormones) or non-functional (do not produce hormones).
In addition to these primary types, there are some rare subtypes of pancreatic cancer, including:
Pancreatoblastoma: This is an extremely rare type of pancreatic cancer that usually occurs in children and adolescents. It develops from immature cells in the pancreas.
Acinar Cell Carcinoma: This is another rare type of pancreatic cancer that originates in the acinar cells of the pancreas, which are responsible for producing digestive enzymes.
Colloid Carcinoma: This is a subtype of pancreatic adenocarcinoma characterized by the production of mucus. It tends to have a better prognosis compared to typical pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Undifferentiated Carcinoma: These are aggressive tumors with poorly defined cell characteristics, making them difficult to classify.
Options for pancreatic cancer depends on cancer type, stage, patient’s health, and preferences. The options for pancreatic cancer typically include:
Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor offers the best chance of cure if the cancer is detected at an early stage and is localized to the pancreas. Surgical procedures may include:
Whipple procedure (Pancreaticoduodenectomy): Removal of the head of the pancreas, part of the small intestine, gallbladder, and bile duct.
Distal pancreatectomy: Removal of the tail and sometimes part of the body of the pancreas.
Total pancreatectomy: Removal of the entire pancreas.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors. It can be used before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or to relieve symptoms in advanced cases.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It can be administered before or after surgery and is often used in combination with radiation therapy.
Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy drugs specifically target molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. They are sometimes used in combination with chemotherapy or as a standalone treatment.
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a newer approach that stimulates the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. While it has shown promise in other cancers, its role in pancreatic cancer treatment is still being studied.
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is vital in linking patients with specific genetic mutations in their cancers to clinical trials for targeted options. This method is a part of personalized medicine. It improves the success of trials.
These options are more likely to work for their specific type of cancer. Pancreatic cancer can be associated with various gene alterations that play a role in its development and progression. Some of the key gene alterations and mutations associated with pancreatic cancer include:
1-KRAS Mutation: The KRAS gene is frequently mutated in pancreatic cancer, with approximately 95% of cases showing this alteration. KRAS mutations are thought to be early events in pancreatic cancer development and play a key role in tumor growth and progression.
2-TP53 Mutation: Mutations in the TP53 tumor suppressor gene are also common in pancreatic cancer. These mutations can lead to uncontrolled cell division and increased resistance.
3-CDKN2A (p16) Mutation: Alterations in the CDKN2A gene can result in a loss of cell cycle regulation, allowing cancer cells to divide uncontrollably.
4-SMAD4 Mutation: Mutations in the SMAD4 gene are associated with more aggressive forms of pancreatic cancer. SMAD4 is involved in the regulation of cell growth and differentiation.
5-BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations: Mutations in these genes, which are well-known for their association with breast and ovarian cancers, can also increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Individuals with hereditary mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have a higher risk of pancreatic cancer.
6-PALB2 Mutation: PALB2 is another gene associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer when mutated. PALB2 plays a role in DNA repair.
7-ATM Mutation: Mutations in the ATM gene, which is involved in DNA repair, have been linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
8-MDM2 amplification: protein that regulates the activity of the p53 tumor suppressor gene, which plays a critical role in controlling cell growth and preventing the development of cancer.
Clinical trials play a crucial role in the pancreatic cancer for several reasons:
Access to Cutting-Edge Options: Clinical trials provide an avenue for individuals to access innovative options, which is particularly important for serious conditions like pancreatic cancer.
Improving Outcomes: Participation in clinical trials empowers patients to contribute valuable knowledge that can enhance survival rates and overall well-being for future pancreatic cancer patients.
Comprehensive Healthcare: Enrolled patients in clinical trials typically receive comprehensive care, benefiting from a dedicated team of healthcare professionals and researchers closely monitoring their progress.
Fostering Hope: For many individuals grappling with pancreatic cancer, involvement in a clinical trial fosters hope, both for their personal recovery and the potential positive impact on future patients facing similar challenges.
Advancing Research Frontiers: Clinical trials play a pivotal role in advancing medical research, aiding scientists in gauging the effectiveness of new options and identifying which patients stand to benefit the most. This can pave the way for the development of more effective strategies and personalized approaches.
Cancer is an unfortunate reality that touches most of us at some point in our lives. If you or a loved one has cancer, you may have heard or read that clinical trials could offer access to innovative new options. But what exactly is a clinical trial? In this video, Massive Bio co-founder Arturo Loaiza-Bonilla, MD, explains how clinical trials work, what to expect if you enroll in one, and why a clinical trial can be an important option for many cancer patients.
We dream of the day when cancer disappears from our lives. Massive Bio is working tirelessly on achieving that goal.
Fill out our contact form and sign our consent form
We collect your medical records securely
Our expert nurses check clinical trials and contact you
We support you with appointments, travel, and accommodation
Fill out our contact form and sign our consent form
We collect your medical records securely
Our expert nurses check clinical trials and contact you
We support you with appointments, travel, and accommodation
We offer a quick, easy and FREE way to find pancreatic cancer clinical research opportunities for patients like you. With our unique clinical trial matching system (CTMS) and team specialized in oncology, we can rapidly match you to a clinical research study for those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
To enroll in clinical trial, you must meet highly specific criteria that’s established by the researchers who are conducting the investigation. That includes detailed information about type of cancer, treatment history, response to treatment, and other data that is collected in medical records.
If you are being treated for cancer or any other disease, your doctor should have a complete record of your medical care, including specific information about what form of the disease you have and what treatments you have received. Your patient relations coordinator will contact you and inform you about the details.
Massive Bio provides its services to the patients and their doctors at no cost—you won’t have to pay anything to receive a clinical-research matching report. There are no hidden costs involved.
Massive Bio strictly adheres to all HIPAA guidelines and international regulations focused on maintaining your privacy. We take extra measures to secure your personal information, ensuring it is protected beyond the mandatory requirements.
Your doctor may know of a clinical research study being conducted in your area that’s recruiting participants and is right for you. However, Massive Bio uses its artificial intelligence powered platform to match patients to clinical research studies that give you the best chance of a positive outcome and are being conducted in a geographical location that makes sense for you.
Yes, Massive Bio keeps your doctor up to date on your status throughout your participation.
