Inherited mutation in the BRCA2 gene is the reason behind familial pancreatic cancer which accounts for 10% of the cases.

Common risk factors for pancreatic cancer are Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, a genetic condition that leads to formation of polyps in the digestive tract, hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome.

Smoking, obesity, diabetes, especially long term diabetes are considered biggest risk factors for pancreatic cancer along with alcohol consumption, improper dietary habits and less physical activity.

​Women with diabetes are 12% more likely to develop heart diseases than men: Study​