Pancreatic Cancer Risk Factors You Need To Know

October 13, 2023

Precede Foundation

Pancreatic cancer is challenging. It is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because it tends to show few early symptoms. It is also known for its aggressive growth and the ease with which it spreads to the other parts of the body. Pancreatic cancer has the lowest survival rate of all types of cancer. It is one of the deadliest forms of cancer which is why understanding the risk factors for this disease is crucial for early detection and prevention. In this blog, we will explore the significant risk factors you need to know.

Age and Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer can affect people of all ages, but it’s more common in those over 45. The average age at which pancreatic cancer is diagnosed is in people over the age of 60. As people age, their pancreas cells can undergo harmful changes, raising the risk of getting pancreatic cancer.

As we age, our cells undergo various changes. Over time, accumulated mutations can lead to the development of cancer. While pancreatic cancer can affect individuals of all ages, it becomes more prevalent with advancing years. This underscores the importance of routine screenings and vigilance, particularly for individuals in their senior years or who have other risk factors.

Smoking and Pancreatic Cancer

Smoking is a major risk factor for pancreatic cancer that you can change. Research consistently finds that smokers are about twice as likely to get pancreatic cancer compared to non-smokers. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can harm the pancreas and raise the cancer risk. Quitting smoking is the best way to lower this risk.

The link between smoking and pancreatic cancer is well-established. Cigarette smoke contains numerous carcinogens and toxins that, when inhaled, can lead to genetic mutations and cellular damage within the pancreas. Over time, this damage can result in the development of cancerous cells. Therefore, quitting smoking is not only beneficial for reducing the risk of pancreatic cancer but also for overall health and well-being.

Family History and Genetic Factors

A family history of pancreatic cancer can be a concerning risk factor. If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, your risk may be elevated. Furthermore, certain inherited genetic mutations, such as those in the BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 genes, are associated with an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Genetic counseling and testing can provide valuable insights for those with a family history of the disease.

Family history is a vital component of risk assessment. If you have a close relative who has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, your risk may be higher due to shared genetic and environmental factors. Genetic testing and counseling can help individuals with a family history understand their specific risk and make informed decisions regarding monitoring and prevention.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term inflammation of the pancreas and is a risk factor for pancreatic cancer. This condition can be caused by various factors, including heavy alcohol consumption, gallstones, or genetic mutations. The chronic inflammation can lead to the development of cancer over time. Recognizing and managing chronic pancreatitis early can help mitigate this risk.

Chronic pancreatitis is a complex condition often caused by different factors. It can lead to ongoing inflammation and damage to the pancreas. Over time, this damage can increase the risk of cancer development. Managing the underlying causes and receiving appropriate medical care for chronic pancreatitis is crucial in reducing this risk.

Diabetes and Obesity

Diabetes and obesity or being overweight are factors that increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. People with long-term uncontrolled diabetes, especially type 2, are at higher risk. Also, having a high body mass (BMI) increases the risk. Being overweight can come before type 2 diabetes and both can lead to insulin resistance. Eating well and staying active can lower these risks of pancreatic cancer.

Dietary Factors

Dietary choices can significantly impact your risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Red and processed meats, often high in saturated fats and preservatives, can promote inflammation and cellular damage while increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients that support overall health and can be a positive step in lowering your risk. A well-balanced diet can promote overall health and reduce the risk of many types of cancer. Changing your diet can make a big difference in your health.

Occupational Exposures

Some occupations and exposures at work can make pancreatic cancer more likely. For example, handling chemicals like pesticides, dyes, and petrochemicals can increase the risk. If your occupation involves these substances, following safety rules and wearing protective gear is vital to lower your risk.

Occupational exposures are a less well-known but important risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Some individuals, due to the nature of their work, are at a higher risk of exposure to carcinogens and toxic substances. It’s imperative for individuals in such professions to adhere to safety protocols and utilize protective equipment to reduce their risk.

Race and Ethnicity

The differences in pancreatic cancer rates among various racial and ethnic groups show how complex this disease is. African Americans have a higher rate, while Asian and Hispanic populations have lower rates. While genes and the environment probably have a part in this, we don’t completely understand the reasons behind it yet. This reinforces the need to create awareness and do more research to better understand and address the variation in risk across racial and ethnic groups.

Knowing the risk factors for pancreatic cancer is important for staying healthy. You might not control all these factors, but making good choices like quitting smoking, eating well, and managing conditions like diabetes can lower your risk a lot. If you have a family history or are concerned about your risk, talk to a doctor or genetic counselor for personalized advice.

Tell your friends and family about pancreatic cancer risks. Help organizations that work on pancreatic cancer awareness and research. Find out about ways to detect and prevent it early, and don’t wait to talk to a doctor if you’re worried about your risk

Every donation has the power to save lives. When you support TrovaNow, your contribution fuels collaborative research aimed at early pancreatic cancer detection, potentially saving countless lives from this formidable adversary. Together, we can make a difference. Learn how you can get involved and donate today.

Knowing When To Ask For Help

There’s strength in recognizing when you need additional support. If you’re feeling consistently overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, it may be time to speak with a healthcare professional. Warning signs can include ongoing sleep trouble, loss of appetite, or emotional numbness.

Mental health care is an important part of cancer recovery. There are therapists, social workers, and cancer-specific counselors trained to support your unique needs. Don’t hesitate to seek them out.

Your medical team can help adjust medications or recommend physical therapy if your symptoms are impacting your daily life. Being honest about your struggles allows your care providers to offer better, more personalized support.

The path to recovery from pancreatic cancer is rarely straightforward. It’s a mix of triumphs and setbacks, strength and vulnerability. But through each high and low, healing is happening. Be gentle with yourself. Allow space for rest, reflection, and growth.

You don’t have to go through this journey alone. With the right support, emotional, physical, and practical, you can move forward, one step at a time. And remember, every day you show up for yourself is a victory.

At TrovaNOW, we’re focused on finding a cure for pancreatic cancer. Every test and discovery brings us closer to better treatments and saving lives. Join us and learn more at TrovaNOW.

PRECEDE Foundation Inaugural Gala

Join us for a night at the Tribeca Rooftop 360 on October 28th at 3:00pm PDT to honor the following awards:

Nobility in Science Award

Raymond C. Wadlow, MD

Catalyst for Change Award

Ambry Genetics Corporation

Legacy Awards

Jeffrey Johnson, Esq.

Jonathan Morris, Esq.

PRECEDE Leadership and Compassionate Care Award

Jessica Everett, MS, CGC

Co-Chairs

Scott Berger | Michael Gershenson | Tracy Chen

Honorary Chairs

Diane Simeone, MD | Jamie Brickell

Get tickets here.

A Long and Steadfast Battle Against a Terrible Cancer

Raymond Wadlow lost his mom, Emily Couric, to pancreatic cancer in 2001. Today he’s an oncologist pushing for early detection.

Why Building Muscle Matters (Strength Training After Cancer Treatment)

Cancer treatment is an incredibly challenging journey, often leaving survivors physically and emotionally drained. While survival is the primary goal, the road to recovery requires more than just healing from the illness itself, it requires rebuilding strength and endurance. One of the most effective ways to regain strength and improve quality of life after treatment is through strength training.

In this blog, we’ll explore why building muscle matters after cancer treatment, how strength training supports recovery, and why it’s important to include physical activity in a full recovery plan.

The Importance of Muscle Health in Cancer Recovery

During cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy and radiation, the body goes through a variety of changes, including significant muscle loss. This can lead to fatigue, weakness, and a decrease in overall functional capacity. Survivors may also experience joint pain, decreased bone density, and difficulty with mobility. When muscles are weakened, it becomes more difficult to perform everyday tasks, affecting the ability to return to normal life.

Muscle health is crucial for maintaining daily functioning, increasing stamina, and improving the body’s ability to heal. Building muscle after cancer treatment can help counteract the physical decline caused by treatments, reduce fatigue, and increase energy levels. Strong muscles are also important for stability, balance, and preventing falls or injuries, which can be especially crucial as the body regains strength.

Benefits of Strength Training After Cancer Treatment

Physical Benefits

Strength training is an excellent way to rebuild muscle mass lost during cancer treatment. By focusing on resistance exercises that challenge the muscles, you can restore strength and regain physical independence. Whether through bodyweight exercises, free weights, or resistance bands, strength training helps increase muscle mass, boost stamina, and promote flexibility.

It also improves bone density, which is particularly important for cancer survivors who may be at risk of osteoporosis due to treatments like chemotherapy and hormone therapy. As you build muscle, you reduce the risk of bone fractures and improve posture and stability.

Mental and Emotional Benefits

Physical activity, especially strength training, has significant mental health benefits. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that help reduce anxiety and depression. Cancer survivors often experience feelings of helplessness and loss of control. Strength training helps you regain control over your body, build confidence, and feel accomplished.

Strength training offers mental benefits like improved mood and focus. Research shows that regular exercise can also help manage the cognitive effects of cancer treatment, such as “chemo brain,” which can cause memory issues, difficulty concentrating, and brain fog. Strength training can improve cognitive function, helping survivors feel more mentally sharp and focused.

Long-Term Health Benefits

Strength training can help prevent long-term complications of cancer treatment. Conditions such as sarcopenia (muscle wasting) and metabolic syndrome, which involves high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels, are common among cancer survivors. Building muscle through strength training can help manage these conditions and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Muscle health supports overall immune function and metabolism. Strong muscles help regulate blood sugar levels, enhance circulation, and improve the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, critical for recovery and long-term health.

The Science Behind Strength Training for Cancer Survivors

Strength training works by creating small tears in muscle fibers, which, when repaired, become stronger over time. After cancer treatment, the body may be in a weakened state, but through consistent resistance training, it begins to rebuild muscle tissue. This process is essential for improving muscle mass and overall body strength.

Strength training promotes hormone regulation, which can be disrupted by cancer treatments. Chemotherapy and hormone therapy often interfere with estrogen and testosterone levels. Regular strength training helps balance these hormones, which can improve mood, energy levels, and general well-being.

Studies have shown that strength training can help cancer survivors reduce fatigue, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy weight. This holistic approach is vital to fully recovering from the effects of cancer treatment and returning to a normal, active lifestyle.

Key Considerations When Starting Strength Training Post-Treatment

Starting strength training after cancer treatment should be approached with care. The body may be more sensitive and vulnerable in the recovery phase, so it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider or physical therapist before beginning an exercise program.

Start Slow and Progress Gradually: Don’t jump into intense workouts right away. Begin with low-impact exercises that focus on mobility, flexibility, and core strength. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as your body adapts. Listen to your body, rest when needed, and avoid pushing too hard.
Focus on Recovery and Balance: Incorporating rest days into your routine is just as important as training days. Overtraining can lead to injury or burnout, so make sure you balance strength training with adequate recovery. This includes prioritizing sleep, nutrition, and hydration as part of your overall fitness plan.
Adapt Exercises to Your Body’s Needs: Cancer treatment can result in lingering side effects like joint pain, fatigue, and reduced range of motion. Modify exercises to accommodate these challenges. Resistance bands and light weights can be excellent starting points for those who need to ease into strength training.

Effective Strength Training Exercises for Cancer Survivors

Cancer survivors can begin their strength training journey with simple, low-impact exercises that target the major muscle groups. Here are some effective exercises to get started:

Bodyweight Squats: Squats are a great full-body exercise that targets the legs, glutes, and core. Start by performing shallow squats and gradually increase the depth as you build strength.
Wall Push-ups: Wall push-ups are an excellent way to build upper body strength without straining the shoulders or wrists. As you gain strength, progress to standard push-ups or modified knee push-ups.
Resistance Band Exercises: Resistance bands are perfect for adding gentle resistance to exercises like bicep curls, shoulder presses, and leg extensions. They provide controlled resistance that’s easier on the joints.
Dumbbell Exercises: Once you’ve built up some strength, you can incorporate light dumbbells for exercises like lunges, chest presses, and rows to continue building muscle.
Core Workouts: Strengthening your core is essential for improving balance and stability. Exercises like planks, bird dogs, and leg raises are great for building a solid foundation of strength.

Building a Strength Training Routine

Creating a strength training routine that fits your needs is essential for long-term success. Here are some tips for creating a sustainable workout plan:

Frequency: Aim for two to three strength training sessions per week, spaced out to allow for adequate recovery.
Duration: Start with 20-30 minute sessions and gradually increase the time as your body becomes more accustomed to the routine.
Progression: Increase the resistance, repetitions, or sets as you build strength. A good rule of thumb is to challenge your muscles without overexerting yourself.
Consistency: Make strength training a regular part of your life, but be patient with the process. Progress may be slow, but every step forward is a victory.

Building muscle after cancer treatment is a powerful tool in the recovery process. Strength training not only helps rebuild muscle mass and physical strength, but it also provides emotional and mental benefits that can enhance overall well-being. By embracing a thoughtful, gradual approach to strength training, cancer survivors can regain control of their bodies, improve their health, and achieve a higher quality of life. Remember, consistency is key, strength comes over time.

In 2025, TrovaNow is expanding its impact—with a 40% increase in fundraising goals and more research sites dedicated to supporting cancer recovery. Visit www.trovanow.com to see how you can get involved and donate today.