Which inherited genetic mutations raise the risk of pancreatic cancer?
There are several genes linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. The most common hereditary cancer syndromes associated with pancreatic cancer risk are described below. Hereditary pancreatitis (HP). People with HP have a 40% risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Pancreatitis is inflammation or swelling of the pancreas that causes severe abdominal pain. HP can begin in childhood and become worse over time. The gene most often associated with HP is called PRSS1, the role of which is not yet known. Mutations in two other genes, called SPINK1 and CFTR, have also been linked to HP; however, it is unknown if mutations in these genes cause an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Genetic testing for mutations in the PRSS1, SPINK1, and CFTR genes is available for people who may have HP. For more information, read the Cancer.Net Guide to Hereditary Pancreatitis. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS). People with PJS have a 35% risk of developing pancreatic cancer. People with PJS often have mult
