How is genomic medicine used in pancreatic cancer?
Genomics looks at a person’s genes and how genetic changes can affect health. It is starting to offer new ways to understand and treat pancreatic cancer.
Researchers are continually looking for new ways to diagnose and treat pancreatic cancer. Some treatments , such as genomic medicine, immunotherapy or new drug combinations, may be available on the NHS for certain people. Some are only offered through clinical trials.
Not all options will be available to everyone, and some are still in the early stages of development. But finding out about them can help you understand all your options and help you have conversations with your healthcare team.
Clinical trials are medical research studies involving people. Most pancreatic cancer trials are looking at different treatment options, and they can be an important treatment option for some people with pancreatic cancer. Trials also help improve future treatments for others.
You can use our trial finder to search for clinical trials that you might be able to take part in. If you find a trial that you are interested in, speak to your medical team. They will be able to tell you if the trial is suitable for you and provide more information about it.
Genomics looks at a person’s genes and how genetic changes can affect health. It is starting to offer new ways to understand and treat pancreatic cancer.
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells. It can be used on its own or with other cancer treatments like chemotherapy. It may be available through clinical trials.
Find out more about how immunotherapy works by watching our animation.
We fund research to help scientists understand how pancreatic cancer avoids the immune system. Find out more about what we've learnt.
Our research funding supports projects in early detection and improving treatment.
Treatment options for people with pancreatic cancer include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
You can contact specialist nurses, like Nicci, on our Support Line for more information about treatments for pancreatic cancer.
Published May 2026
To be reviewed May 2028