Medical Services • Pancreas Care

While much is known about pancreatic diseases like pancreatitis, so far, there are no definitively known causes of pancreatic cancer. But as with any cancer, there are certain risk factors.

Risk factors for pancreatic cancer

• Smoking
• Diet
• Obesity
• Age—risks increase dramatically after age 50
• Race—more common in African Americans
• Family history—tends to run in families
• Alcohol abuse
• Medical factors including chronic pancreatitis, jaundice, diabetes or a history of stomach surgery
• Environmental exposure to certain chemicals such as pesticides, dyes and chemicals related to gasoline

Decrease your risk

Not everyone who has one or more of these risk factors will develop pancreatic cancer. To lower your risks:

• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Eat a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in processed meats
• Don't smoke – smoking is linked to the development of many chronic diseases and cancers, including pancreatic cancer. Click here for more facts about the dangers of smoking and information about Courage to Quit® at NCH, a comprehensive tobacco treatment program for adults
• Drink alcoholic beverages only in moderation
• See your doctor at least once a year for a physical exam

In addition, see a physician once a year for a physical. You can schedule a physician consultation with one quick call to HealthConnection at 847.618.4YOU (4968), Monday–Friday, from 8:30 am–4:30 pm CST.

Online resources

• Articles
  • Am I at Risk for Pancreatic Cancer?
  • What Can I Do If I’m at Risk for Pancreatic Cancer
  • Pancreatic Disorders Symptoms, Conditions and Treatment
  • I’ve Just Been Told I Have Pancreatic Cancer
  • Overview of Your Treatment Choices for Pancreatic Cancer
  • Can I Survive Pancreatic Cancer? What Is My Prognosis?
  • Tell Your Healthcare Team How You Feel During Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer
  • Tests You May Need to Evaluate Pancreatic Cancer
  • What to Know About Combination Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer
  • What to Know About Chemotherapy for Pancreatic Cancer
  • What to Know About Radiation Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer

If you or someone you love has pancreatic cancer, find out how you can get the best treatment in Chicago. Call the Illinois Center for Pancreatic and Hepatobiliary Diseases for a referral to a doctor specializing in pancreatic or hepatobiliary diseases at 847.483.9400.