Risk factors for chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer

Chronic pancreatitis is a rare but real risk factor for developing pancreatic cancer. Most people with pancreatitis never develop pancreatic cancer. The risk is high for those who have an inherited cause of their pancreatitis and those who smoke. People who consume excess alcohol and are overweight or obese are at greater risk for both chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.