When my mom was diagnosed with PC, I went online to find out as much as possible. I didn't see anything where it was genetic. I did see it said alot that the main cause of pancreatic cancer was smoking - and my mom did smoke for a lot of years. As for alcholism, I didn't see that, but that doesn't mean that there isn't a connection.

Smoking! That really surprises me. Thanks for the information.

My mother has pancreatic cancer (5 years - but deteriorating rapidly now). Her father died from it 27 years ago. They were both heavy smokers (unfiltered chesterfields) for many years, but my mom quit 20 years ago.

It does appear to run in families, but so far there is no PROVEN link. There are a number of studies currently researching the possibility of a genetic link. They suspect that the BRCA2 mutation, which plays a role in the genetic type of breast cancer, might be involved in some way. If you google "pancreatic cancer genetic link" you will find a lot of info about this.

ANYONE can get this deadly disease. My Mamma NEVER smoked or drank in her life. She wasnt feeling well after this past Christmas, we went to the doctor, tests were run, she past away within days after finding out she had cancer. The only thing I am grateful for is she didnt have to suffer. SO you see it doesnt matter if you smoke, or drink or both for she got it without doing either.

my dad died if it also

i have done a lot of research, and they basically say the same as everyone else does, diabetes, obesity, smoking, having a family member who had it, but i don't think there is just one cause of it..

also my dad was never much of a drinker or smoker, he worked out everyday so he was very healthy, so it just goes to show you that anyone can get it

my mother in law doesnt smoke or touch alchol,she is so fit,small and thin, and sometimes my husband cant catch up to her,she is 82yrs and she has got pc and a tumour,she also had yellow jaundice and was in a lot of pain,the radiologist couldnt get a proper signal because they had to wait for her blood to clot because its to thin,but she has a small operation to relieve the pain and eat a lot of fatty meat, choclate,veg,anything that will get you fat and it may ease the pain love shirlxx

There is definitely a genetic link in some families. Two people in a family can get PC from environmental factors, like smoking, or just by chance. However, there are known genes that can cause PC. There is/are also 1 or more genes that have not yet been found that cause pancreatic cancer. There are studies looking for these genes, and families with 2 or more cases of PC, for which you may be ligible. You can search for "familial pancreatic cancer genetic study" or follow this link for more info:
http://www.karmanos.org/cancer.asp?cid=19&id=927

I have pancreatic cancer stage 4B. There is a genetic link to some sub-types of pancreatic cancer and not as much to others. The overall risk is considered small. My uncle died of pancreatic cancer. I do not smoke or drink and I just turned 60. I was diagnosed over a year ago. I also happen to be a registered nurse.
Heavy alcohol use would have an impact on many of our body organs including our pancreas. I do not know what your risk level would be-as you have stopped drinking. I would consider it very small. I applaud your efforts.
There is a much higher risk factor for smoking and pancreatic cancer than use of alcohol.
Excess alcohol use can lead to pancreatitis-an inflamation of the pancreas. Those with a history of chronic pancreatitis have a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
You may wish to share your concerns with your physician at your next physician visit.
-Art

when I was told I had the cancer I too was asked how often I drank. But I only drank maybe 3-4 times a yr. I am not a big drinker. and when I did I did not drink alot.
They also asked me if I smoked. If you read up on any type of cancer you will find that everyone is born with cancer. but something happens somewhere and the cells become active.