Family History – About 10 percent of pancreatic cancer cases are related to family history. Risk increases if a person has two or more first-degree relatives who have had the disease. That’s mother, father, sister brother, or a child. Inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, usually associated with breast and ovarian cancer are a factor.
Inherited Genetic Mutations – Some inherited genetic mutations and syndromes associated with a higher risk of getting pancreatic cancer include: BRCA 1 or 2 mutation, Cystic Fibrosis, PALB2 mutation, and Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome.
Diabetes (Long-standing and New-onset) – Pancreatic cancer is more likely to occur in people who have had diabetes for more than five years. Research also suggests that a sudden onset of type 2 diabetes may be an early symptom of pancreatic cancer, especially in those who are over the age of 50, have a low body mass index (BMI), are losing weight or do not have a family history of diabetes.
Pancreatitis (Chronic & Hereditary) – People with chronic pancreatitis have an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Chronic pancreatitis is common in people who consume large amounts of alcohol for many years. Hereditary pancreatitis causes recurrent inflammation of the pancreas that generally starts by the time a person is 20 years old.
Obesity – Obese people are about 20 percent more likely to develop pancreatic cancer.
Diet – There is some evidence that the consumption of red meat and processed meat my slightly increase the risk for pancreatic cancer.
Smoking – About 20 percent of pancreatic cancers are thought to be caused by cigarette smoking. The risk of developing pancreatic cancer is about twice as high among smokers.
Race – Incidents of pancreatic cancer are slightly higher among African Americans than the white population. It’s lowest among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
Gender – Men are slightly more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than women.
Age – The risk for pancreatic cancer increases with age. Almost all patients are over 45. Over 80 percent are between 60 and 80. The average is 71.
Gum Disease – Periodontal (gum) disease and tooth loss appear to be linked to pancreatic cancer, even when controlling for other risk factors.
