What is the recommended screening for pancreatic cancer for individuals with a family history?

The recommended screening for pancreatic cancer in individuals with a family history is an upper endoscopy, often involving an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). This method allows for detailed imaging of the pancreas and can help identify early lesions or cysts that may indicate an increased risk of cancer, particularly in high-risk populations such as those with genetically predisposed conditions.

Annual CT scans, while they can be useful in visualizing the pancreas, are not specifically recommended as a primary screening tool for pancreatic cancer due to concerns about radiation exposure and cost-effectiveness. Genome sequencing can provide valuable information regarding genetic predispositions, but it does not specifically screen for pancreatic cancer itself. Serum PSA testing is primarily used for prostate cancer detection and lacks relevance in screening for pancreatic cancer. Thus, the upper endoscopy is the most appropriate method for monitoring and screening in individuals with a heightened risk due to family history.