Pancreatic cancer

Abstract

Carcinoma of the pancreas is a highly malignant growth of the acinar cells of the exocrine pancreas. It affects about 10/100000 population, and the incidence is rising. Two males are affected for every female. It is rare before the age of 45, and thereafter the incidence rises progressively with age. Aetiological factors include smoking, which approximately doubles the risk, possibly an elevated dietary fat intake and diabetes mellitus.