Modifiable risk factors are those that can be modified with appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes. These changes can help reduce the risk of developing cancer. Following are some modifiable risk factors for pancreatic cancer.
Tobacco and nicotine use
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), people who smoke are
Additionally, about 25% of pancreatic cancer cases may result from cigarette smoking. However, other kinds of tobacco and nicotine products, such as chewing tobacco and vapes, can also present pancreatic cancer risks.
See more tips for quitting smoking.
High alcohol consumption
Consuming more than
Low to moderate alcohol use may also increase risks when combined with smoking.
Learn more about alcohol misuse and its treatment.
Exposure to certain substances
Regular or heavy exposure to some chemicals and heavy metals
Examples of substances linked to pancreatic cancer include:
- pesticides
- asbestos
- benzene
- chlorinated hydrocarbons
chromium Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health Go to source nickel Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health Go to source
You can be exposed to harmful chemicals in your home or workplace. Examples include while cleaning the home or in metalworking industries. You may be able to reduce contamination from harmful substances by:
- advocating for ways to reduce skin contact with chemicals in the workplace
- advocating for the use of less harmful substances where possible
- wearing protective equipment, such as gloves or respirators
- keeping the area well-ventilated
- washing your hands well with soap and water after using chemicals
- changing your clothes or showering after using chemicals
Body weight and physical activity
The ACS states that people with obesity have about a
Additionally, other possible risk factors related to body mass include:
- gaining weight during adulthood
- having extra body mass around the waistline
A low rate of physical activity may also increase the risk of pancreatic cancer and
Read more about losing lower belly fat and exercising for weight maintenance.
Some cases of diabetes
Pancreatic cancer may be
Approaches for diabetes prevention include:
- losing body mass if you are overweight
- getting
150 minutes Trusted Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Governmental authority Go to source of moderate-intensity exercise and 2 days of muscle strengthening per week - reducing added sugar and highly processed foods in the diet
- treating underlying conditions as your doctor advises
If you already have diabetes, following your prescribed treatment plan can help reduce the risk of complications.
Some cases of chronic pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis is long-term inflammation of the pancreas, which may increase cancer risk.
Chronic pancreatitis is often the result of long-term alcohol misuse, and sometimes tobacco use. Therefore, it may be preventable.
Some risk factors cannot be changed. Following are some non-modifiable pancreatic cancer risk factors.
Age
The risk of developing pancreatic cancer increases with age.
Most people with pancreatic cancer are
Sex
People assigned male at birth may have an
One reason for this
Race
According to the 2019 review, the risk of pancreatic cancer is
- diet and alcohol consumption
- smoking
- vitamin D insufficiency
Pancreatic cancer rates may be lowest in Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
Family history
Pancreatic cancer may run in families as a result of inheritable genetic traits. Research suggests that
However,
Other genetic factors and conditions
Genetic predisposition to certain gene mutations
Some genetic syndromes may also increase the risk of pancreatic cancer,
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
- Lynch syndrome, hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer
- hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome
- hereditary breast cancer
- familial pancreatitis
- familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome
Some cases of diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is also linked to a
However, researchers also suggest that pancreatic cancer may be the original cause of some diabetic symptoms, such as insulin resistance.
Some cases of chronic pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis caused by an inherited genetic mutation may result in a
Researchers have identified additional possible risk factors for pancreatic cancer. However, their exact effect on pancreatic health is not confirmed yet. Further research may be necessary.
Other potential risk factors
- history of other cancers
- infection with hepatitis B or Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)
- diets high in:
- processed and red meats
- saturated fats
- added sugar
Certain factors may increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. However, experiencing a risk factor does not mean you will develop cancer. Conversely, some people who do not experience known risk factors do develop cancer.
As a result, your outlook and possible complications can depend on many personal factors. Contact your doctor for individualized advice about your own risk and how to reduce it.
Read more about pancreatic cancer, including its causes, treatment, and outlook.
Pancreatic cancer risk factors can be modifiable or non-modifiable.
Modifiable risk factors for pancreatic cancer include body weight, tobacco use, and preventable conditions. Non-modifiable risk factors include age, genetic predisposition, and medical history.
Contact your doctor if you are concerned about pancreatic cancer and for advice on reducing your risk.