Pancreatic Risk Assessments in Coachella

Personalized Screening for High-Risk Patients

Detecting Risk Early for Better Pancreatic Health

Pancreatic cancer often develops silently, making early detection difficult. At Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology, we offer pancreatic risk assessments to identify individuals who may benefit from proactive screening. Serving Coachella, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, La Quinta, and the greater Coachella Valley, Dr. Mehrdad Asgeri combines advanced diagnostic tool,s including Endoscopic Ultrasound with Fine Needle Biopsy with individualized care to give high-risk patients the best chance for early detection.

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer Risk

While anyone can develop pancreatic cancer, certain factors increase the likelihood. These include:

Pancreatic Cysts
Genetic mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, ATM, CDKN2A, MLH1, MSH2, STK11, P35
Family history of pancreatic cancer or multiple relatives diagnosed with related cancers
Chronic pancreatitis or long-term inflammation of the pancreas
Type 2 diabetes, particularly when recently diagnosed in adulthood
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and heavy alcohol use
Age over 50, with most cases diagnosed between 60 and 80

Knowing your personal risk profile allows us to determine the most effective surveillance strategy.

Our Pancreatic Risk Assessment Process

We take a structured, step-by-step approach:

Medical & Family History Review

We begin with an in-depth review of your medical background, family history, and any symptoms you may be experiencing. This helps us identify potential hereditary patterns and environmental risk factors.

Genetic Counseling & Testing

For patients with a significant family history or certain cancers in their family, we may recommend genetic counseling and testing to identify mutations associated with higher pancreatic cancer risk.

Baseline Imaging & Screening

High-risk patients often benefit from baseline imaging such as:

MRI/MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Cholangiopancreatography) for detailed pancreatic and biliary tract images
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) for high-resolution imaging of pancreatic tissue, allowing detection of subtle abnormalities not visible on standard scans
Endoscopic Ultrasoundwith Fine Needle Biopsy to obtain the tissue from the suspected pancreatic lesion for pathologic and microscopic evaluation for definitive diagnosis

Ongoing Surveillance

If your results indicate elevated risk, we create a customized surveillance plan, which may include periodic EUS, annual imaging, periodic blood marker testing, and close symptom monitoring.

Why Early Detection Matters

Detecting pancreatic changes before symptoms arise offers the best chance for effective treatment. For high-risk individuals, structured monitoring can lead to the discovery of precancerous lesions or very early-stage cancer, which are more treatable.

Support Beyond Screening

At Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology, pancreatic risk assessments are part of a broader commitment to your digestive and overall health. Our care includes:

Nutritional counseling to reduce inflammation and maintain a healthy weight
Lifestyle modification support for smoking cessation and alcohol reduction
Coordination with specialists in oncology, surgery, and genetics when needed
Ongoing education about warning signs and preventive strategies

Who Should Consider a Pancreatic Risk Assessment?

You should discuss risk assessment with a GI doctor near me if you:

Have two or more relatives with pancreatic cancer
Carry a genetic mutation known to increase pancreatic cancer risk
Have a history of chronic pancreatitis or unexplained pancreatic cysts
Have new-onset diabetes after age 50 without other clear cause

Take a Proactive Approach to Pancreatic Health

Your pancreas is vital to both digestion and blood sugar regulation. Protecting it starts with knowing your risk. Pancreatic cancer risk assessments at Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology give you the knowledge, tools, and monitoring needed to act early.

Call us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Mehrdad Asgeri and take the first step toward proactive pancreatic care.

FAQs

About Pancreatic Risk Assessments

What is a pancreatic cancer risk assessment?

A pancreatic cancer risk assessment is a comprehensive evaluation designed to determine your likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. Dr. Mehrdad Asgeri is the only advanced-trained board-certified gastroenterologist for pancreas endoscopy in Coachella Valley. At Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology, Dr. Asgeri, uses detailed medical history reviews, genetic counseling for pancreatic cancer, advanced endoscopic ultrasound, and advanced imaging to identify high-risk pancreatic cancer patients. This information guides personalized screening and prevention strategies.

Who should consider pancreatic cancer screening?

Pancreatic cancer screening is generally recommended for people at higher-than-average risk, including those with:

Two or more family members diagnosed with pancreatic cancer
Known genetic mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, ATM, CDKN2A, or STK11
Pancreatic cysts
Chronic pancreatitis or recurrent pancreatic inflammation
New-onset diabetes after age 50 without other explanation
A personal or family history of certain cancers

If you live in Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, La Quinta and the greater Coachella Valley area and meet these criteria, Dr. Asgeri can help determine if screening is right for you.

What screening methods are used?

For high-risk pancreatic cancer patients, the most effective screening tools include:

Endoscopic Ultrasound in Coachella– A minimally invasive procedure that uses a flexible scope with ultrasound technology to create detailed images of the pancreas. If a pancreatic lesion is detected, then a needle biopsy is performed and the lesion tissue is sampled for microscopic and pathologic evaluation for definitive diagnosis.
MRI/MRCP– Magnetic resonance imaging with cholangiopancreatography to visualize the pancreas and bile ducts.
Blood marker testing– Looking for specific markers that may indicate early pancreatic changes.

These tests are selected based on your risk level and medical history.

How often should high-risk patients be screened?

Screening frequency depends on your individual risk profile. Many high-risk pancreatic cancer patients undergo annual EUS, imaging, but some may require more frequent monitoring. Your gastroenterologist in Coachella will recommend a schedule tailored to your needs.

Can pancreatic cancer be prevented?

While not all cases are preventable, pancreatic disease prevention focuses on lowering modifiable risk factors. This includes:

Avoiding tobacco products
Maintaining a healthy weight
Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes
Limiting alcohol intake
Dietary modification e.g., avoiding artificial sweeteners
Treating chronic pancreatitis promptly

Regular screening is a vital part of prevention for high-risk individuals.

What role does genetic counseling for pancreatic cancer play?

Genetic counseling helps determine if you carry inherited mutations that increase your risk. If testing confirms a mutation, your care plan may include earlier and more frequent pancreatic cancer screening. At Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology, genetic counseling is integrated into our risk assessment program to ensure every factor is considered.

Is endoscopic ultrasound safe?

Yes. Endoscopic ultrasound is generally safe and well-tolerated. It is performed under sedation, and most patients experience minimal discomfort. Complications are rare, but as with any procedure, Dr. Asgeri will discuss the risks and benefits in detail before scheduling.

What symptoms should prompt immediate evaluation?

You should contact Dr. Asgeri, the gastroenterologist in Coachella, immediately if you experience:

Persistent abdominal or back pain
Unexplained weight loss
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
New-onset diabetes
Loss of appetite or digestive changes

Even if you are not in a high-risk group, these symptoms may require urgent evaluation.

Does insurance cover pancreatic cancer screening?

Coverage for pancreatic cancer risk assessment and screening varies by plan. Many insurance providers cover tests for high-risk patients, especially when ordered by a specialist. Our office can assist with verifying coverage and obtaining pre-authorization if needed.

Where can I get a pancreatic cancer risk assessment in the Coachella Valley?

Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology provides comprehensive pancreatic risk assessments and screening for residents of Coachella, Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, La Quinta, and surrounding areas. Our program combines advanced imaging, such as endoscopic ultrasound in Coachella, genetic counseling for pancreatic cancer, and expert guidance from Dr. Mehrdad Asgeri to give you the most thorough evaluation possible.

Proactive screening and early detection save lives. If you are concerned about your risk for pancreatic cancer, schedule an appointment with Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology today to discuss your options for pancreatic disease prevention and ongoing monitoring.

Request An Appointment

Whether you’re seeking a hepatologist in Coachella, a trusted expert in stomach pain and ulcer treatment, or guidance on fatty liver disease management, Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology is here to support your long-term digestive wellness. Book a GI specialist in Coachella today and take the first step toward a healthier you.

760-205-2081

(For Appointments)

760-699-7607

(For General Inquiries)