Many physicians and researchers are unable to determine the exact cause of
cancer. In most cases, cancer appears to be a random illness with few warning
signs. Nonetheless, researchers have concluded that certain factors do place a
person at a greater risk of developing cancer, including pancreatic cancer. For
example, pancreatic cancer is more common among those over the age of 60.
However, younger adults are not exempt. Other important risk factors include:
Race: African-American
women and men have a higher risk than other nationalities.
Sex:
Pancreatic cancer affects men more than women
Smoking: The
use of tobacco products doubles a person's risk of developing pancreatic
cancer
Diabetes: A
large percentage of those who develop pancreatic cancer also suffer from
diabetes
Family history of
pancreatic cancer and other forms of cancers
Begin overweight
Suffering from ulcers
Infrequent exercising
Two common forms of pancreatic cancer include:
Adenocarcinomas: Cancer that develops in the ducts that
produce digestive juices. This form of pancreatic cancer accounts for nearly
95% of all cases.
Ampullary cancers: Cancer that develops in the area of the
pancreas that empties into the intestines. This form of cancer results in
jaundice, which is a yellowing of skin and eyes.
Cancerous tumors may also form in the islet cells, glucagon cells,
and the insulin cells.