Pancreatic Cancer Care Is Changing: Why Early Referral Matters More Than Ever

Pancreatic cancer has long been one of the most challenging cancers to treat. Because symptoms are often vague and the disease is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage, timely evaluation and access to specialized care are critical.

Today, advances in treatment, including targeted therapies, molecular testing, and clinical research—are creating new opportunities for patients. For both patients and referring providers, early referral to a multidisciplinary oncology team can help ensure that all available treatment options are considered from the start.

Recognizing the Signs

Pancreatic cancer may present with symptoms that can be difficult to recognize, including:

Abdominal or back pain
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
New-onset diabetes, particularly in adults over age 50
Digestive changes
Fatigue

Patients often enter the healthcare system through primary care, gastroenterology, endocrinology, surgery, or emergency medicine before a diagnosis is confirmed.

Why Early Referral Is Critical

When pancreatic cancer is suspected or diagnosed, treatment planning often involves multiple specialists. Early referral gives patients access to a comprehensive evaluation that may include:

Advanced imaging and staging
Molecular and biomarker testing
Medical oncology consultation
Radiation oncology evaluation
Surgical consultation
Clinical trial opportunities

For some patients, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of treatments may be recommended before surgery. Early involvement of a multidisciplinary team helps ensure the most appropriate treatment strategy is developed as quickly as possible.

New Advances Are Expanding Treatment Options

Recent advances in pancreatic cancer research have focused on targeting KRAS mutations, which are present in more than 90% of pancreatic cancers. Historically, these mutations have been difficult to target with medications, limiting treatment options for many patients.

One of the most promising developments is daraxonrasib, an oral targeted therapy designed to inhibit RAS-driven cancers. Clinical studies have demonstrated encouraging results in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, representing a significant advancement in the development of personalized treatment approaches for this disease.

“The emergence of therapies like daraxonrasib represents an exciting advancement in pancreatic cancer care. Having access to this treatment at Maryland Oncology Hematology means eligible patients can be evaluated close to home for a promising new targeted option that was simply not available a few years ago.”

— Dr. Mohit Narang, Research Leader & Chair of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Maryland Oncology Hematology

As treatment options continue to evolve, access to centers experienced in molecular profiling, targeted therapies, and clinical research is becoming increasingly important.

The Value of a Multidisciplinary Approach

Pancreatic cancer treatment is rarely managed by a single physician. Optimal care often involves collaboration among:

Medical Oncologists
Radiation Oncologists
Surgical Oncologists
Gastroenterologists
Interventional Radiologists
Genetic Counselors
Nutrition Specialists
Supportive and Palliative Care Providers

By working together, these specialists can develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses the unique needs of each patient.

Comprehensive Pancreatic Cancer Care at Maryland Oncology Hematology

At Maryland Oncology Hematology, our specialists collaborate closely with referring physicians to provide coordinated, patient-centered care for individuals facing pancreatic cancer.

Our multidisciplinary approach includes:

Expert medical oncology care
Advanced radiation oncology services
Coordination with surgical specialists
Molecular and biomarker testing
Genetic counseling
Access to clinical research through Sarah Cannon Research Institute
Comprehensive supportive care services

Maryland Oncology Hematology is also among a select group of providers with access to daraxonrasib, offering eligible patients the opportunity to be evaluated for this promising new targeted therapy as part of a personalized treatment plan. Patients are carefully assessed to determine whether emerging therapies such as daraxonrasib may be appropriate for their specific diagnosis and treatment goals.

For Referring Providers

Whether a pancreatic mass has been identified on imaging, a biopsy has confirmed pancreatic cancer, or a patient requires multidisciplinary treatment planning, timely referral can help ensure access to the full spectrum of treatment options.

Early collaboration can provide patients with:

Rapid specialist evaluation
Comprehensive treatment planning
Access to emerging therapies
Clinical trial opportunities
Coordinated care across specialties

For consultations or referrals, the team at Maryland Oncology Hematology is committed to providing timely access and seamless communication throughout the patient’s care journey. MarylandOncology.com