Smoking plays a big role in the development of pancreatic cancer.:
Cigarettes contain carcinogens, which are cancer causing substances. Smokers are 2-3 times more likely to develop pancreatic cancer over a non-smoker.
Being diabetic. :
Although researchers are not sure why, but having diabetes may increase your risk factor.
Age.:
As you get older, your risk factor for pancreatic increases.
Race. :
African Americans have a higher risk factor for developing pancreatic cancer. Researchers are unclear as to why, but studies suggest that higher rates of smoking and economic factors may be the cause.
Gender.:
Men develop pancreatic cancer at a higher rate than women.
Chronic Pancreatitis:
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. Having chronic pancreatitis increases your risk factor for pancreatic cancer, especially if it is inherited.
Religion.:
Pancreatic cancer is more common in the Jewish population. Researchers feel it may be due to an inherited genetic mutation of the BRCA2 gene.
