The incidence of pancreatic cancer increases with age, with most patients being diagnosed at age 45 and older.
People with a family history of pancreatic cancer, especially in first-degree relatives (such as parents or siblings), have an increased risk.
Carrying certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, CDKN2A, can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Smoking is a known major risk factor for pancreatic cancer.
Individuals with long-term chronic pancreatitis may have changes in their pancreatic tissue, increasing the risk of pancreatic cancer.
A diet high in fat and cholesterol may be associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.