Obesity and pancreatic cancer: the underlying mechanisms

Abstract

Obesity has emerged as a severe public health concern worldwide, with an increasing number of studies linking it to an increased risk of various forms of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. Although the underlying pathways behind this relationship are unknown, different putative biological and metabolic pathways have been discovered. These are examples of chronic low-grade inflammation, insulin resistance, altered hormone levels, and exposure to external environmental risk factors. These underlying processes are believed to combine with genetic and environmental variables in obese individuals to contribute to the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. More study is needed to thoroughly understand the complicated relationship between obesity and pancreatic cancer to create effective preventive and early detection measures for this fatal illness.