Harvard Health Publishing And 3 Other Doctors Answer: What Are The Reasons For Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic Cancer image

Answered by Dr. Howard E. Lewine

M.D. Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing · 40 years of experience · USA

For most types of pancreatic cancer, there is no proven way to prevent it. You can decrease your risk of getting this cancer by not smoking. Cigarette smoking is the most significant risk factor associated with pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer can run in families and it almost surely has a hereditary cause. Also you may decrease your risk of developing pancreatic cancer by: Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, Staying physically active and engaging in daily exercise, Maintaining a healthy weight

Answered by Dr. Ilya Aleksandrovskiy

M.D., MBA · 5 years of experience · USA

The reasons for pancreatic cancers are:- 1) Prominent family history of genetic syndrome that increases cancer risk, BRCA2 gene mutation, mole-malignant melanoma syndrome, 2) Obesity, 3) Diabetes, 4) Chain-smoking, 5) Pancreatitis (chronic inflammation of the pancreas)

Answered by Dr. Alex T. Thomas

MD · 40 years of experience · USA

Diabetes, smoking, and chronic pancreatic swelling can cause pancreatic cancer. Any kind of internal wound or injury which is left untreated can cause pancreatic cancer.

→ Learn more about pancreatic cancer: See the causes, symptoms, treatment options and more.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to pancreatic cancer.

Answered by Dr. Ipsa Arora

MD (Internal Medicine) · 5 years of experience · USA

The following factors can cause pancreatic cancer: smoking, diabetes, age, family history, gender, obesity, alcohol consumption, race and unusual inherited traits.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors, and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns.