Introduction
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, and it is important to be aware of the habits that can increase your risk of developing it. According to physicians, there are certain habits that can secretly increase your risk of pancreatic cancer, and it is important to be aware of them. Eating certain foods can increase your risk, while avoiding others can help reduce it. In this article, we will discuss the habits that can secretly increase your risk of pancreatic cancer, and provide tips on what to eat and what to avoid in order to reduce your risk.
Habits Secretly Increasing Your Pancreatic Cancer Risk, Say Physicians — Eat This Not That
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, and it’s important to be aware of the habits that can increase your risk. According to physicians, there are certain habits that can increase your risk of developing pancreatic cancer without you even knowing it. Here are some of the habits to avoid, and what to eat instead.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking is one of the most dangerous habits when it comes to pancreatic cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, smoking is linked to a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer. If you smoke, it’s important to quit as soon as possible to reduce your risk.
Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption is also linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends limiting your alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
Avoid Processed Meats
Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, are linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends avoiding processed meats as much as possible.
Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer. Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that can help protect your body from cancer. Aim to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
Eat Whole Grains
Whole grains are also important for reducing your risk of pancreatic cancer. Whole grains are packed with fiber, which can help reduce inflammation and protect your body from cancer. Aim to eat at least three servings of whole grains per day.
Eat Fish
Eating fish is another great way to reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer. Fish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and protect your body from cancer. Aim to eat at least two servings of fish per week.
By avoiding certain habits and eating the right foods, you can reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your risk of pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic cancer is responsible for 3% of all cancers in the U.S., and approximately 7% of all cancer deaths. “Cancer is a complex set of diseases. For some, lifestyle can play an important role, and is one aspect of the disease that we have some control over,” says Sara Hiom, Cancer Research UK’s director of early diagnosis. “Pancreatic cancer is a disease with poor outcomes and is less well understood, so it’s important that we talk about the things people can do to stack the odds in their favor and reduce their risk.” Here are five habits increasing your risk of pancreatic cancer. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) is strongly linked to pancreatic cancer, experts warn. “The risk of pancreatic cancer is markedly increased in chronic pancreatitis patients compared with the general population, especially in patients with an older age at onset and a >60 pack-year smoking history,” according to a study published in the journal Digestive and Liver Disease.
According to the American Cancer Society, having a BMI of over 30 is linked to a 20% higher chance of developing pancreatic cancer. One study shows that obesity may also negatively impact the survival rate for people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. “This study adds to mounting evidence for the role of weight control in improving outcomes for patients with cancer. It also reinforces the importance of maintaining a healthy weight throughout your life, which may lead to better outcomes after diagnosis and help prevent pancreatic cancer from developing,” says Brian M. Wolpin, MD, MPH.
Type 2 diabetes could be a symptom of pancreatic cancer. “Diabetes Mellitus type 2 is a risk factor, a manifestation and a prognostic factor for pancreatic cancer. Up to 80% of pancreatic cancer patients present with either new-onset type 2 diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance at the time of diagnosis,” according to an article published in JOP: Journal of the Pancreas. “Molecular biomarkers will be crucial to determine which patients with new-onset diabetes should be screened with endoscopic ultrasound for pancreatic cancer.”
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There is growing evidence that exposure to specific chemicals may raise the risk of pancreatic cancer, especially for those in close contact with pesticides, benzene, certain dyes, and petrochemicals. “Excessive exposure to dry cleaning and metalworking chemicals may increase pancreatic cancer risk,” says Johns Hopkins Medicine.
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Smoking significantly raises the risk of pancreatic cancer, especially for those with an inherited genetic predisposition to pancreatic cancer. “Patients with a family history of pancreatic cancer must be strongly counseled against smoking, and smokers with a family history of pancreatic cancer should be informed of their increased risk and offered enrollment into a smoking cessation program,” one study concludes.
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If you are experiencing any symptoms that are causing concern, talk to a health professional as soon as possible to rule out any potential health issues. And to protect your life and the lives of others, don’t visit any of these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.