Does Pancreatic Cancer Run in Families?

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and difficult cancers to detect early. In Singapore, it ranks among the top 10 cancer-related deaths for both men and women, with survival rates remaining low due to late-stage diagnoses.

While most cases arise without a clear warning or known cause, you may be at greater risk if several members of your family have had pancreatic cancer or related cancers.

Pancreatic cancer begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that plays a key role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. It often progresses silently, making it difficult to detect in its early stages.

Most cases of pancreatic cancer develop without a clear cause, but certain risk factors are known to increase your chances:

• Smoking
• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• Chronic pancreatitis

In some cases, a family history of pancreatic or other cancers (such as breast, ovarian, or colorectal cancer) may also suggest a higher lifetime risk.

While inherited pancreatic cancer is relatively uncommon, a pattern of related cancers in the family may warrant a closer look, particularly if:

• Two or more close relatives (parent, sibling, child) have had pancreatic cancer
• A relative was diagnosed at a younger age (under 50)
• Other cancers such as breast or colon cancer appear across generations

These patterns do not necessarily mean you will develop cancer, but they may indicate an increased risk worth discussing with a specialist.

If you are concerned about your personal or family history, the first step is to consult a doctor experienced in managing pancreatic conditions. They can:

• Review your medical background and any concerning patterns in your family
• Recommend appropriate investigations if needed
• Advise on ongoing monitoring or lifestyle adjustments

At our clinic, we regularly support patients with both known pancreatic conditions and those who are simply seeking clarity about their risk. Not all patients will require testing or surgery, but early evaluation can offer peace of mind and help guide any next steps.

Regardless of family history, there are steps you can take to reduce your overall risk:

• Quit tobacco in any form
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Manage diabetes
• Limit alcohol intake
• Eating a healthy diet

Being aware of your risk and taking action where possible can make a real difference in long-term health outcomes.

If you suspect a pattern of pancreatic cancer in your family, seek a doctor's advice. They can assess your family history, discuss the importance of testing, and help you make informed decisions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.