Until recently, the only known, controllable risk factor was cigarette smoking. Two recent large population studies following nearly 164,000 men and women from 10 to 29 years were analyzed by researchers. In that group, 350 participants were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Two other potential risk factors were found: physical inactivity and excess weight. Those with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater had 72% higher likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. Moderate exercise, like walking for about ninety minutes a week, was associated witha 50% decrease in cancer risk.
While more study is needed, weight control and exercise may protect against the deadly disease of pancreatic cancer.
- Excerpted from Health After 50, The John Hopkins Medical Letter, Volume 13, Issue 12, February 2002
