Pancreatic cancer is a serious and often fatal cancer type that affects the pancreas, a vital organ located behind the stomach. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, which reduces the chances of successful treatment.

There are various factors that can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer, including unhealthy lifestyle habits. In this article, we will discuss how excess weight and obesity can increase your pancreatic cancer risk.

What is pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the pancreas, a glandular organ located in the abdomen. The pancreas plays a crucial role in the digestion and regulation of blood sugar levels in the body.

Pancreatic cancer occurs when the cells in the pancreas mutate and grow uncontrollably. This abnormal growth can form a mass of tissue, known as a tumor.

If left untreated, pancreatic cancer can spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs, and become more challenging to treat.

How does excess weight increase pancreatic cancer risk?

Studies have shown that obesity and excess weight can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, people who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer than people of a healthy weight.

One reason for this increased risk is the link between obesity and insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels in the body.

When someone is overweight or obese, their body becomes less responsive to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels. This, in turn, can damage the pancreas and increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Another reason for the increased risk of pancreatic cancer in people who are overweight or obese is the production of hormones by fat cells. Fat cells can produce hormones, such as estrogen, that can stimulate the growth of cancer cells.

In addition, excess fat around the abdomen can cause inflammation, which can also increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

What are the other risk factors for pancreatic cancer?

Aside from excess weight and obesity, there are several other risk factors for pancreatic cancer, including:.

Age: Pancreatic cancer is more common in older adults, with the average age of diagnosis being 71 years old.
Family history: A family history of pancreatic cancer can increase the risk of developing the disease.
Smoking: Smoking is a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer.
Chronic pancreatitis: Chronic pancreatitis, a condition that causes inflammation in the pancreas, can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop pancreatic cancer.

What are the symptoms of pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer often does not cause symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer grows and spreads, symptoms may develop, including:.

Abdominal pain or discomfort
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
Unexplained weight loss
Nausea and vomiting
Bloating
Fatigue

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, but it is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How can you reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer?

While some risk factors, such as age and family history, cannot be controlled, there are lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer.

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important steps you can take to reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer. This can include making healthy food choices and engaging in regular physical activity.

The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Other steps you can take to reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer include:.

Quit smoking or using tobacco products
Limit alcohol consumption
Speak with your healthcare provider about regular cancer screenings if you are at high risk due to a family history or other factors
Manage diabetes, if you have been diagnosed with the condition

Conclusion

Pancreatic cancer is a serious and often fatal cancer type that affects the pancreas. Excess weight and obesity can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer by causing insulin resistance, hormonal changes, and inflammation in the body.

While some risk factors for pancreatic cancer cannot be controlled, maintaining a healthy weight and making healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of developing the disease.