This month is pancreatic cancer awareness month: Types of Pancreatic Cancer Pancreatic tumor are either exocrine or neuroendocrine (endocrine) tumors. This is based on the type of cell they start in. Knowing the type of tumor is important because each type acts differently and responds to different treatments. More than 90% of pancreatic cancers are exocrine tumors. The most common type of pancreatic cancer is adenocarcinoma. Less than 10% of pancreatic tumors are neuroendocrine tumors (pancreatic NETs or PNETs), also called islet cell tumors. They often grow slower than exocrine tumors. How Many People Will Get Pancreatic Cancer? The incidence of pancreatic cancer in India is 0.5–2.4 per 100, 000 men and 0.2–1.8 per 100, 000 women That is 7 people diagnosed every year. Pancreatic cancer is most commonly diagnosed cancer. What Causes Pancreatic Cancer? Changes in your DNA cause cancer. These can be inherited from your parents or can arise over time. The changes that arise over time can happen because you were exposed to something harmful. They can also happen randomly. If you are a first-degree relative of someone diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, you may have an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Your family member with pancreatic cancer is strongly recommended to undergo genetic testing for inherited mutations. • Negative results often mean you do not need to get genetic testing. • If the results are positive, unknown or if you have several close family members with cancer, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network recommends you consult with a genetic counselor to determine if you should get genetic testing for inherited cancer risk and if you should discuss options for monitoring. If you have any signs or symptoms , consult a Dr.Jaipal Reddy MBBS MS MCH (Surg . Onco)