What causes pancreatic cancer?

In general, pancreatic cancer may be caused by factors such as genetic predisposition, unhealthy lifestyle habits, acute pancreatitis, cholelithiasis (gallstones), and diabetes. It can be managed under a doctor's guidance through general supportive measures and medication. The specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Genetic Factors

The development of pancreatic cancer is closely related to genetic factors. Individuals with a family history of pancreatic cancer among first-degree relatives have a significantly increased risk of developing the disease. Certain specific gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are also associated with an elevated risk of pancreatic cancer. Regular physical examinations and monitoring for bodily changes are recommended.

2. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Unhealthy lifestyle habits primarily include smoking, alcohol consumption, high-fat diet, and lack of physical activity. Long-term exposure to these behaviors may damage pancreatic cells and increase the likelihood of malignant transformation. Adjusting lifestyle habits in daily life can help reduce this risk.

3. Acute Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a condition characterized by sudden inflammation of the pancreas, which may lead to tissue damage and genetic mutations during the repair process. Recurrent episodes of acute pancreatitis can cause prolonged pancreatic injury, increasing the risk of cancerous changes. Symptoms may include fever and chills. Treatment under medical supervision may involve medications such as ulinastatin for injection, gabexate mesilate for injection, and ranitidine hydrochloride injection.

4. Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)

Cholelithiasis refers to the formation of solid crystals in the gallbladder or bile ducts. Gallstones can cause bile stasis and reflux, potentially damaging pancreatic tissue and increasing the risk of pancreatic cancer. Symptoms may include indigestion and abdominal bloating. Patients should follow medical advice and use medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid tablets, anti-inflammatory and cholagogue tablets, and Bingshitong capsules.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels, typically due to insufficient insulin secretion or impaired insulin function. In diabetic patients, chronic hyperglycemia and abnormal insulin metabolism may lead to pancreatic cell damage and dysfunction, thereby increasing the risk of pancreatic cancer. Symptoms may include blurred vision, skin itching, and hypertension. Medications such as glimepiride tablets, metformin hydrochloride sustained-release tablets, and acarbose tablets should be used as prescribed.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a healthy diet, avoid high-fat and high-sugar foods, engage in moderate physical activity, abstain from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and regularly monitor bodily changes. Individuals with long-standing chronic conditions such as diabetes should pay particular attention to pancreatic health to reduce the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.