No one knows the exact causes of pancreatic cancer though research has shown that people with certain risk factors are more likely to develop pancreatic cancer.
Cigarette smoking - there is a direct relationship between number of pack/years and the risk of cancer.
Age – the risk of developing pancreatic cancer increases with age.
Chronic pancreatitis – long-term inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) has been linked to pancreatic cancer.
Diabetes – there have been a number of reports which suggest that diabetics have an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
Obesity – recent studies have shown that risk is increased in those who are obese (BMI > 30). Some studies indicate that obese women who have a high waist-hip-ratio (carry their weight on their stomach area) are at increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
For further information on risk factors for pancreatic cancer, click here.