Chronic pancreatitis and other risk factors for pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth or fifth most common form of cancer in Western countries. Early diagnosis is difficult and the overall mortality rate is high. Individuals at high risk for pancreatic cancer include smokers, African-Americans, and persons with various types of pancreatitis. As with other cancers, dietary factors play an important role. Approximately 10% of all pancreatic tumors may be related to an inherited germ line disorder.