what cause pancreatic cancer

The exact cause of pancreatic cancer is not clear, but several risk factors have been identified. These include smoking, family history of pancreatic cancer, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, and certain genetic syndromes. Smoking is one of the most important risk factors for pancreatic cancer, with about 25% of cases thought to be caused by cigarette smoking. Additionally, being very overweight (obese) and having a family history of pancreatic cancer can also increase the risk. Chronic pancreatitis, a long-term inflammation of the pancreas, is linked with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, some gene mutations related to pancreatic cancer occur after a person is born, rather than being inherited. These acquired gene mutations may cause as many as 10% of pancreatic cancers. While the exact cause of pancreatic cancer is often unknown, understanding and addressing these risk factors can help lower the chances of developing the disease