Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a cancer that begins in the pancreas, an organ that lies behind the stomach and small intestine. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and hormones that regulate blood sugar. Pancreatic cancer is often difficult to detect early because it doesn't cause symptoms until the later stages of the disease. When symptoms do occur, they may include abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), weight loss, and nausea and vomiting.

Treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, but may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer is low, but it is improving with advances in treatment.

Risk factors for pancreatic cancer

• Age: Pancreatic cancer is more common in older adults. The average age at diagnosis is 67.
• Smoking: Smoking is the most important risk factor for pancreatic cancer. People who smoke are two to three times more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than people who don't smoke.
• Family history: People who have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with pancreatic cancer are at increased risk of developing the disease.
• Personal history of certain medical conditions: People with a history of chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, or certain other medical conditions are at increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
• Race and ethnicity: Pancreatic cancer is slightly more common in black adults than in white adults.
• Gender: Men are slightly more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than women.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent pancreatic cancer, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk.

• Don't smoke: Smoking is the most important risk factor for pancreatic cancer. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do to reduce your risk.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of pancreatic cancer. Losing even a small amount of weight can help reduce your risk.
• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer.
• Limit alcohol intake: Drinking too much alcohol can increase your risk of pancreatic cancer. Men should limit their alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day, and women should limit their intake to no more than one drink per day.
• Get regular exercise: Regular exercise may help reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.