Pancreatic cancer is caused by certain changes in how pancreatic cells function, especially how they grow and divide into new cells. There are many risk factors for pancreatic cancer, but many do not directly cause cancer. Instead, they increase the chance of DNA damage in cells that, over time, may lead to pancreatic cancer. Learn more about how cancer develops at What Is Cancer?
A risk factor is anything that increases the chance of getting a disease. Several risk factors may increase the chances of developing pancreatic cancer. Some risk factors for pancreatic cancer, like using tobacco, can be changed. Risk factors also include things people cannot change, like their age and family history. It’s important to learn about risk factors for pancreatic cancer because it can help you make choices that might lower your risk of getting it.
Risk factors for pancreatic cancer
Having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean you will get pancreatic cancer. Many people with risk factors never develop pancreatic cancer, while others with no known risk factors do. Talk with your doctor if you think you might be at risk of pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer screening options may be available to you.
Age
The risk of pancreatic cancer increases with age. Nearly two-thirds of people are diagnosed at age 65 or older, but pancreatic cancer can also affect younger individuals. Although there is recently a trend towards pancreatic cancer also affecting young individuals.
Smoking cigarettes
Smoking is a major risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Smokers are significantly more likely to develop pancreatic cancer compared to nonsmokers. Harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage DNA in pancreatic cells and lead to cancer.
Learn about different tools to help you quit smoking and how to use them.
Family history and genetics
If you have a first-degree relative (such as a parent or sibling) or multiple second-degree relatives (such as a grandparent, aunt, or cousin) with pancreatic cancer or pancreatitis, you may be at increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
Genes and pancreatic cancer
Some genetic syndromes caused by mutations in certain genes are linked to a higher risk of pancreatic cancer. Cancers linked to harmful gene mutations may be called hereditary or inherited pancreatic cancer. Your risk of pancreatic cancer may be increased if you have one of the following genetic syndromes:
- hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome, caused by mutations in BRCA2 and BRCA1 genes
- FAMMM syndrome, caused by mutations in the CDKN2A gene
- hereditary breast cancer, caused by mutations in the PALB2 gene
- ataxia-telangiectasia, caused by mutations in the ATM gene
- hereditary pancreatitis, caused by mutations in the PRSS1 gene
- Lynch syndrome, caused by mutations in the MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, or PMS2 genes, sometimes also referred as microsatellite high (MSI-H)
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, caused by mutations in the STK11 gene
- Li-Fraumeni syndrome, caused by mutations in the TP53 gene
Up to 10% of all pancreatic cancers are linked to inherited genetic syndromes. If you have a family history of pancreatic cancer, genetic counselors can help you understand if you could have a genetic risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Learn more about genetic counseling and testing to assess your risk of pancreatic cancer at Genetic Testing for Inherited Cancer Risk.
Diabetes
Having diabetes can increase your risk for pancreatic cancer. Newly diagnosed diabetes can also be a symptom of pancreatic cancer.
Chronic pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. Long-term, or chronic, pancreatitis can cause damage to the pancreatic tissue and increase your risk of cancer. Newly diagnosed pancreatitis can also be a symptom of pancreatic cancer.
Excess body weight and obesity
Obesity is linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Excess body weight (body mass index of 30 and higher) can lead to changes in the body’s metabolism and insulin levels, which may increase your risk of developing cancer.
Other possible risk factors
- Drinking alcohol. Excessive alcohol use may be a risk factor for pancreatic cancer. One reason for this could be that drinking a lot of alcohol can lead to chronic pancreatitis, which is a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Learn more about Alcohol and Cancer Risk.
- Environmental and occupational exposures. Some chemicals used in dry cleaning and metalworking may be linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer, but more research is needed to confirm.
Can I prevent pancreatic cancer?
Nothing can prevent pancreatic cancer, but quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight and diet can help lower your risk of pancreatic and all types of cancer.