Is pancreatic cancer hereditary?
Causes of pancreatic cancer
He pancreatic cancer It is due to a genetic mutation , but are some individuals more likely to suffer from it? The answer is yes, but in a relatively small proportion.
The reality is that if a person has family history , whether from parents or grandparents, with this disease, it does not hurt to take some Preventive measures . Above all, because in this cancer, more than in others, early prevention is especially important to avoid a fatal outcome. Although the survival rate has increased significantly in the last decade, it's important to remain vigilant.
In any case, we can highlight these factors to better understand the causes for the entire population:
1. Gender nuance
The first thing we should point out is that there is a higher incidence in men than in women. However, the percentage difference, even if it exists, would have to be considered in relation to other factors. In non-hereditary cases, it would be of some significance. Therefore, men need to take special care.
2. Incidence by age
As with other types of cancer, the older you are, the more likely you are to develop this disease. It has been proven that, from the age of 65 , the number of cases The risk of this cancer increases dramatically, especially if other risk factors are present. For this reason, we find this condition much more common in older people.
3. Family history of pancreatic cancer
The genetic inheritance yes it influences the pancreatic cancer and, in fact, there is a higher incidence in descendants of people who have suffered from it.
One of the reasons would be the mutation of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes , more common between parents and their offspring in the ovarian cancer . When it comes to any melanoma , this mutation is produced by the p16/CDKN2A gene . There is also the case of breast cancer , due to gene mutation PALB2 . Finally, it is necessary to point out the cases of mutations in the familial pancreatitis (PRSS1), Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (STK11) or the Lynch syndrome (MLH1 and MSH2) . These are diseases in which a relationship has already been observed in hereditary cases.
We can say that the hereditary and family factors of this type of cancer are more common in women than in men. This contrasts with the fact that, overall, there is a higher incidence among men.
It is estimated that these antecedents caused by mutations or hereditary diseases could assume up to 10% of cases . Therefore, if one of your parents or grandparents has suffered from it, you should be alert. Here, genetic panel testing is very useful for establishing cause-effect relationships or ruling them out.
4. Socioeconomic situation
The socioeconomic situation may be a factor influencing whether certain groups have more or less pancreatic cancer. For example, Obesity, smoking, alcoholism, exposure to a polluted atmosphere or chronic stress are risk factors that increase the probability, and all of these habits tend to be experienced to a greater extent by the people with financial problems or a less stable situation.
5. Suffer from other diseases
Finally, we must say that suffer from certain diseases increases the chance of having pancreatic cancer . For example, diabetes wave pancreatitis Chronic illnesses are conditions that, in the long run, could lead to cancer. This is one of the factors that should be discussed with a professional to determine which diets or habits may work best.
What can be done to reduce the incidence of pancreatic cancer?
This cancer has a high mortality rate, but the good news is that measures can be taken to reduce the likelihood of developing it. Specifically, these are:
Take a genetic panel test
He genetic panel test It's a good option if your parents or grandparents have had this cancer. To do this, simply compare the genes that usually mutate in this disease. This way, you can rule out this pathway or find out if you have more. predisposition to improve your habits. This is one of the advantages of the genetic prediction .
Eat healthy
The obesity It is a risk factor in this type of tumor. Well, Eating healthy , reducing fats and increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables can be very helpful in reducing the chances of getting this cancer. The reference of the The Harvard Plateau , for example, is very useful if you don't have any other health problems. The idea is clear: the body doesn't have to make unnecessary efforts.
Do exercise
Excess body fat forces the body to work harder, which also increases the chances of developing cancer. Daily exercise , to the extent possible, will substantially reduce the risk of developing this disease. Furthermore, physical activity is generally positive for the body.
Quit alcohol
Alcoholism or habitual alcohol consumption is another factor that can influence the development of various types of cancer. As a general principle, for a healthier life, it is ideal to Don't drink alcohol . This will increase your chances of living longer and with quality. Life without alcohol is better, so taking the step is a positive thing.
Quitting smoking
Although smoking is most often associated with lung cancer, the truth is that it also affects other types of diseases. And in this case, we can definitely say: from the first cigarette we smoke, we are harming our body. Quitting smoking It is therefore the best option for many reasons, but also to prevent pancreatic cancer.
In summary…
Pancreatic cancer is multifactorial, but the hereditary element by genetic mutation has a weight Important. Do you want to see if you are predisposed to suffer from it if a family member has had it? There are ways to find out. Genotics You'll find the complete list of available genetic tests, as well as their prices. Clear up your doubts . and gain peace of mind!