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Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is one of the most lethal types of gastrointestinal cancer despite the latest medical advances. Its incidence has continuously increased in recent years in developed countries. The location of the pancreas can result in the initial symptoms of neoplasia being overlooked, which can lead to a delayed diagnosis and a subsequent reduction in the spectrum of available therapeutic options. The role of modifiable risk factors in pancreatic cancer has been extensively studied in recent years, with smoking and alcohol consumption identified as key contributors. However, the few screening programs that have been developed focus exclusively on genetic factors, without considering the potential impact of modifiable factors on disease occurrence. Thus, fully understanding and detecting the risk factors for pancreatic cancer represents an important step in the prevention and early diagnosis of this type of neoplasia. This review reports the available evidence on different risk factors and identifies the areas that could benefit the most from additional studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Obesity, lack of physical activity and diet have been inconsistently associated with pancreatic cancer. Aim. To evaluate the prevalence of overweight, body weight change trends, diet and physical activity level in pancreatic cancer patients diagnosed between 01.2018-02.2023. Methods. Prospective observational study that included patients diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma who were interviewed about dietary habits and weight changes, and physical activity over time. Results. A total of 186 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma were included. Regarding weight changes, it was observed that 56% of patients were under or normal weight at diagnosis, while a BMI below 25 was observed at one year and 5 years before only in 19.35%, respectively 12.9%. Excluding the data 5 years before diagnosis, the overweight and obesity prevalence between 20-29 years old was 43.54% respectively 11%, at 30-39 years old 43.54% respectively 25.8%, at 40-49 years old 22% respectively 45,6%, and at 50-59 years old 34% respectively 52.3%. Over 50 % of patients led a sedentary life. Regarding diet more than 75% of patients consumed red meat, dairy products, bread and bakery products, fruits and vegetables regularly more than 5 times a week. The consumption of fish and nut products was generally much less frequent, maximum 2 times a week in over 80% of cases. Less than half of the patients (47%) confirmed alcohol consumption, mostly occasionally, only 17% reported drinking more than 5 times a week. The favorite alcoholic drink was liquor, followed by wine, generally homemade. Conclusions. Most of the patients in the study were obese throughout their lives, but there was a weight loss starting 5 years before diagnosis, more severe in the last year. This can be explained by the advanced degree of the disease at diagnosis associated with a possible paraneoplastic hyperanabolic syndrome, the majority not complaining of loss of appetite or early satiety in the last year. Diet studies have suggested a protective effect against pancreatic cancer of the Mediterranean diet and regular consumption of nuts, even if in small quantities. This can also be confirmed by the patients included in this study whose diet does not respect these principles. Alcohol consumption does not seem to increase the risk of pancreatic neoplasm. This has also been observed in numerous studies with inconsistent results, and can also be determined by a declarative reduced consumption, due to the stigma associated with high consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]