Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease that begins in the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach. The pancreas helps the body digest food and control blood sugar levels.
Sadly, this type of cancer is often found late, which makes it hard to treat. Learning what causes pancreatic cancer can help people catch it earlier and possibly prevent it.
One of the biggest risks for getting pancreatic cancer is smoking. Research shows that people who smoke are about twice as likely to get this disease compared to those who don’t. This is because harmful chemicals in tobacco can damage the DNA in cells of the pancreas. The good news is that quitting smoking can greatly reduce this risk.
Age is another important factor. Most people who get pancreatic cancer are over the age of 65. As we get older, our chances of developing harmful changes in our genes go up. While we can’t stop aging, regular doctor visits can help find problems early.
Family history and inherited genes also matter. If someone in your close family—like a parent or sibling—has had pancreatic cancer, your risk is higher.
Some people are born with changes in their genes, like BRCA1 or BRCA2, that also raise the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Scientists are working on better ways to test for these genetic risks and prevent cancer in people with them.
Another risk comes from chronic pancreatitis. This is when the pancreas stays inflamed over a long period. It can happen due to heavy alcohol use, gallstones, or certain inherited conditions. If pancreatitis runs in your family, it can increase your chance of getting cancer in the pancreas.
Being overweight or eating an unhealthy diet can also raise the risk. Studies show that obese people are more likely to get pancreatic cancer.
Eating too much red meat, processed meat, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats can lead to weight gain and raise the chance of cancer. On the other hand, eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower your risk.
Diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes, is another important factor. People with diabetes have a higher chance of getting pancreatic cancer. Scientists think that high blood sugar and insulin resistance may play a role. Keeping your diabetes under control with medicine, healthy eating, and exercise is very important.
Some jobs may also increase your risk. If you work with certain chemicals—like pesticides, dyes, or materials used in metal factories—you might have a greater chance of getting this disease. Researchers are trying to find safer ways for workers to avoid harmful exposures.
Even though we can’t change our age or family history, we can make choices to reduce other risks. Quitting smoking, eating healthy, staying at a healthy weight, and avoiding harmful chemicals at work are all ways to protect your health. Regular check-ups and knowing your family history can also help catch problems early.
Scientists are working hard to find better ways to diagnose and treat pancreatic cancer. By learning more about what causes it, more people can take steps to stay healthy. With continued research and awareness, there is hope for better treatments and higher survival rates in the future.
If you care about cancer, please read studies about vitamin D and bowel cancer, and a cautionary note about peanuts and cancer.
For more health information, please see recent studies about the link between ultra-processed foods and cancer, and everyday foods to ward off pancreatic cancer.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
