Pancreatic cancer in men is primarily caused by a combination of genetic factors and lifestyle-related risk factors. The key causes include:
- Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes is the most significant risk factor, doubling the risk of pancreatic cancer. Cigar smoking and smokeless tobacco also increase risk. About 20-25% of pancreatic cancers are linked to smoking, and quitting smoking reduces the risk over time.
- Excess body weight and obesity: Being overweight or obese raises the risk, possibly due to increased insulin production by the pancreas. Men with a BMI over 30 have about a 20% higher chance of developing this cancer.
- Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is associated with an increased risk, though the exact mechanism is unclear. The risk is higher in those with diabetes linked to obesity.
- Chronic pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation of the pancreas, often related to heavy alcohol use and smoking, raises pancreatic cancer risk. Some hereditary forms of pancreatitis increase risk further.
- Genetic factors: About 5-10% of cases are inherited through gene mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, and others linked to hereditary cancer syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome). Family history of pancreatic cancer also increases risk.
- Age and sex: Pancreatic cancer risk increases with age, most commonly occurring after 60 and more frequently in men than women.
- Occupational exposure: Exposure to certain industrial chemicals (e.g., in dry cleaning, metalworking) may raise risk.
While not exclusive to men, these factors collectively influence risk. Not everyone with these risk factors develops pancreatic cancer, but managing modifiable risks like quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling diabetes, and reducing alcohol can lower the chances of developing this disease. Genetic counseling may be advised if there is a strong family history.
