From the Guidelines
Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include both modifiable and non-modifiable elements, with the most significant being older age, family history, and certain genetic syndromes, such as BRCA1/2 mutations, as identified in the most recent study 1.
Key Risk Factors
- Age: most cases occur in people over 65 years old 1
- Family history: having two or more first-degree relatives with pancreatic cancer increases risk 1
- Genetic syndromes: BRCA1/2 mutations, Lynch syndrome, and familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome increase risk 1
- Chronic pancreatitis: significantly raises risk, especially when present for many years 1
- Diabetes: long-standing type 2 diabetes is associated with increased risk 1
- Obesity and physical inactivity: contribute to higher risk 1
- Heavy alcohol consumption: increases risk 1
- Diets high in processed meats and low in fruits and vegetables: may increase risk 1
- Certain workplace exposures: to chemicals like benzene and certain pesticides have been linked to pancreatic cancer 1
Modifiable Risk Factors
- Tobacco use: doubles the risk compared to non-smokers, although this was noted in an older study 1
- Helicobacter pylori infection: increases risk, as noted in an older study 1
- Dietary habits: high red meat intake, low fruit and vegetable intake, and high alcohol intake increase risk, as identified in an older study 1
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors
- Family history: having a first-degree relative with pancreatic cancer increases risk, as noted in a recent study 1
- Genetic mutations: inherited deleterious germline mutations, such as BRCA2, increase risk, as identified in the most recent study 1 It is essential to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee cancer development, and some people develop pancreatic cancer without identifiable risk factors, as stated in the most recent study 1.
Screening and Surveillance
- High-risk individuals: should receive genetic counseling and be considered for enrollment in investigational screening registries, as recommended in the most recent study 1
- Annual endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and/or pancreatic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): are the procedures of choice for surveillance in high-risk individuals, as stated in the most recent study 1
From the Research
Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer
The following are some of the key risk factors for pancreatic cancer:
- Age: Pancreatic cancer risk increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over 65 years old 2
- Family history: Having a family history of pancreatic cancer is a significant risk factor, with individuals having an affected relative being at nearly two-fold increased risk 3
- Genetic predisposition: Certain genetic syndromes, such as BRCA1/2, PALB2, and ATM, can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer 4
- Tobacco use: Tobacco use is a well-established risk factor for pancreatic cancer 5
- Chronic pancreatitis: Chronic pancreatitis is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer, particularly in individuals with a family history of the disease 5
- Nutrition and lifestyle: Select nutritional deficits, bacterial infections, and psychosocial factors may also play a role in the development of pancreatic cancer 5
- Obesity and diabetes: Obesity and diabetes have been linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer, particularly in younger individuals 2
High-Risk Populations
Certain populations are at higher risk for pancreatic cancer, including:
- Individuals with a family history of pancreatic cancer or certain genetic syndromes 3, 4
- Those with chronic pancreatitis or other pancreatic disorders 5
- Current or former smokers 5
- Individuals with certain nutritional or lifestyle risk factors 5
Screening and Early Detection
Screening and early detection are critical for improving outcomes in pancreatic cancer. High-risk individuals, such as those with a family history or certain genetic syndromes, may benefit from active surveillance using magnetic resonance imaging and endoscopic ultrasound 4. Additionally, individuals with certain risk factors, such as tobacco use or chronic pancreatitis, may also benefit from screening and early detection efforts 5, 6