What Can I Do If I’m At Risk for Pancreatic Cancer?

Not smoking will reduce your risk of cancer of the pancreas, as well as other types of cancer.

Knowing the risk factors is a good first step toward preventing pancreatic cancer. Use your risk factors to plan a course of action. Also, let your doctor know if you have a family history of pancreatic cancer. And, know the symptoms of pancreatic cancer. If you notice any, see your doctor right away.

Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Lowering your risks for pancreatic cancer can also lower your risk for other cancers. For example, quitting smoking also lowers your risk for lung, esophageal, stomach, head, neck, and bladder cancer.

To help you make lifestyle changes, work with your doctor or nurse, a dietitian, or a health educator. Your doctor can monitor your health to catch early symptoms.

• If you smoke, stop.

• Use alcohol only in moderate amounts.

• Lower the fat in your diet.

• Eat more fruits and vegetables.

• Avoid too much weight gain and exercise regularly.

Be Safe on the Job

If you work with chemicals often, be sure to follow guidelines for safe use. Your employer or union safety director can give you guidelines for safe use of chemicals. You can also check with these organizations.

• Call the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, at 1-800-356-4674. Or check their Web site at www.cdc.gov/niosh.

• Call the Occupational Safety and Health Administration at 1-800-321-6742. Or check their Web site at www.osha.gov.