Which factor is linked to Pancreatic Cancer?

Cigarette smoking is a significant risk factor linked to pancreatic cancer, as it is associated with an increased likelihood of developing this type of cancer. Smoking contributes to the formation of carcinogens that can lead to genetic mutations in the cells of the pancreas. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that individuals who smoke are more than twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer compared to non-smokers. This connection is substantiated by the fact that the longer a person smokes and the more heavily they smoke, the greater their risk becomes.

While excessive alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on the pancreas, leading to conditions like pancreatitis, and high sugar intake is associated with obesity and diabetes—other risk factors for pancreatic cancer—cigarette smoking holds a direct and stronger correlation with the development of this disease. Genetic predisposition is also a significant factor, particularly for individuals with inherited mutations, but in this context, cigarette smoking is highlighted as a prominent and modifiable risk factor.