A risk factor increases your chances of developing cancer. Modifying the following risk factors may help reduce your risk of pancreatic cancer.

Stop Smoking

A significant number of cases of pancreatic cancer may be associated with smoking. If you are a smoker, you should do everything within your power to stop. You are risking pancreatic cancer, as well as other serious diseases. Contact your healthcare provider to see if you can use an alternative nicotine delivery system, such as nicotine patch or gum. Other options include hypnotherapy or group support.

For more information on how to quit smoking, click here .

Stop Drinking

Alcohol consumption may lead to pancreatic cancer. If you drink regularly , you should try to cut down on the amount of alcohol you drink, preferably stopping all together. Contact you healthcare provider and consider joining AA.

Lose Weight

It is known that obesity , especially morbid obesity, increases your risk of pancreatic cancer. You should try to control your body weight with the proper dieting and regular exercise. Contact your healthcare provider if you are considering bariatric surgery .

Prevent Diabetes

It is well known that your chance of developing pancreatic cancer is increased if you have diabetes . If you have a family history of diabetes or have other risk factors, such as being overweight, you should get regular blood sugar testing to see if you have prediabetes. To prevent the condition from developing, you should control you weight with proper diet and exercise. Your healthcare provider might consider using an antidiabetes drug if other options fail.

Avoid Exposure to Pancreatic Cancer-causing Chemicals

You have a higher-than-normal risk of developing pancreatic cancer if you work in the petroleum and dry-cleaning industries, or if your job entails the use of pesticides and dyes. If you must work in these industries, research how to best protect yourself from exposure to chemicals. Check with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health or the Environmental Protection Agency about any available protective guidelines.

Eat a Nutritious Diet

Discuss with your doctor or registered dietitian (RD) strategies to eat a more healthful diet —one that is high in vegetables and fiber, and low in saturated fats and meats.