Risk Factors You Can Change

Certain lifestyle or environmental factors may increase risk but can be modified:

• Smoking: One of the most important risk factors. People who smoke have about twice the risk compared to non-smokers.
• Excess body weight: Obesity increases risk by about 20% and may contribute through inflammation and hormone changes.
• Type 2 diabetes: Pancreatic cancer occurs more often in people with diabetes, especially type 2.
• Chronic pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation of the pancreas, often linked to alcohol use or smoking.
• Chemical exposure: Workplace exposure to certain industrial chemicals may raise risk.

Risk Factors You Cannot Change

• Age: Risk increases with age; most diagnoses occur after age 65.
• Sex: Men are slightly more likely to develop pancreatic cancer.
• Race: Higher rates are observed among African Americans.
• Family history: Having relatives with pancreatic cancer raises risk.
• Inherited genetic syndromes: Certain gene mutations (such as BRCA-related syndromes or Lynch syndrome) increase susceptibility.

Other Possible Influences

Some factors may contribute to risk, though research is ongoing:

• Diet high in red or processed meats and saturated fats
• Heavy alcohol use
• Lack of physical activity
• Certain infections or environmental exposures

Important Reminder

Pancreatic cancer develops from a complex combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Even people with risk factors may never develop the disease, while others without known risks may still be diagnosed. If you are concerned about your personal risk, speak with a healthcare professional about screening or prevention strategies.