GSU Professor: Sherron Berg's Mission to Detect Pancreatic Cancer Early

Sherron Berg, a professor of medicine at Georgia State University and a prominent voice in the fight against pancreatic cancer, has died. She was 66. Berg died this week in Atlanta, ending a life defined by her work to improve outcomes for patients who face one of the most difficult cancers to detect.

Berg founded the Early Pancreatic Cancer Detection Foundation in 2013. Her organization focuses on identifying the disease at an earlier stage, when treatment is more likely to be effective. Dr. Andrew Page, the surgical oncologist who led her treatment team, noted that Berg remained active until shortly before her death. He described her as stoic and graceful, saying she prioritized her family and friends even while undergoing treatment.

Berg’s career in medicine began in Florida, where she taught at the University of Miami and worked in private practice. She moved to Atlanta and joined Georgia State University, where she became a professor in the Department of Medicine. Her academic work centered on pancreatic cancer research and patient advocacy. She was known for her direct approach to patients and her willingness to discuss the realities of the diagnosis.

The pancreatic cancer community lost a key figure in Berg. She served on the board of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and advised other organizations dedicated to raising awareness. Her death was announced by the Early Pancreatic Cancer Detection Foundation. The group stated that Berg’s legacy would continue through the research and screening programs she established.

Berg is survived by her husband, John, and their two children. She also leaves behind her mother, Linda, and her sister, Mary. A memorial service is planned for later this month in Atlanta. Family and colleagues described Berg as a woman who never let her illness define her, focusing instead on helping others navigate their own challenges.