Am I at risk of pancreatic cancer?
Most pancreatic cancers develop with no obvious cause. However, research has identified certain factors that can increase your risk.
This page explains what those risk factors are, what symptoms to watch for, and when you should talk to your doctor.
Risk factors for pancreatic cancer
Being over 65 years old and/or being male
Smoking tobacco, frequent alcohol use or being overweight or obese
Like diabetes (especially type 2 diabetes) or chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Having close family members who have had pancreatic cancer or having certain inherited genetic conditions (see below for more information)
Eating lots of processed or red meat, being exposed to certain chemicals at work, having liver disease
Important to know: Having one or more risk factors doesn’t mean you will develop pancreatic cancer. Many people with risk factors never develop the disease, while some people with no known risk factors do. If you’re concerned about your risk, speak with your doctor.
Family history and genetic risk
Most people who develop pancreatic cancer do not have a family history of the disease. However, about 10% of pancreatic cancers may be linked to inherited genetic factors.
Your risk may be higher if you have:
- multiple family members who have had pancreatic cancer
- a family history of breast, ovarian, bowel cancer, or melanoma
- a family history of chronic pancreatitis
- certain inherited genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome, BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, or Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
If you have a strong family history of pancreatic cancer or related cancers, you may be referred to a familial cancer service or genetic counsellor.
They can review your personal and family history and discuss whether genetic testing might be appropriate for you.
Signs and symptoms to watch for
Pancreatic cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages, which makes it hard to detect. When symptoms do appear, they can be similar to other, less serious health conditions.
It’s important to see your GP if you experience:
- yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) - this happens when the bile duct becomes blocked
- itchy skin
- dark urine or pale, greasy stools that float
- discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen
- losing weight without trying
- unexplained extreme tiredness (fatigue)
- loss of appetite
- feeling sick or vomiting
New-onset diabetes in older adults, especially when associated with significant weight loss, can also be a sign of pancreatic cancer.
These symptoms are common and are usually caused by something other than cancer. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, it’s important to see your GP for a check-up.
Preventing pancreatic cancer
There is no guaranteed way to prevent pancreatic cancer. However, you may be able to lower your risk by:
• quitting smoking
• limiting alcohol consumption
• eating a healthy, balanced diet
• staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight
• managing diabetes with your doctor’s help
• having regular check-ups if you have known risk factors
Need more information?
If you’re concerned about your risk for pancreatic cancer, or if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms that worry you, it’s important to speak with your general practitioner.
Want to talk?
Speak to an upper GI cancer nurse or counsellor, we're here to provide you with the support you need. Support available to anyone impacted by upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.
