Prevention

The number one way to prevent pancreatic cancer is to stop smoking. Other lifestyle choices may lower your chances of getting pancreatic cancer, including:

• Stop smoking. If you smoke, stop. Talk to your doctor about strategies to help you stop, including support groups, medications and nicotine replacement therapy. If you don′t smoke, don′t start.
• Maintain a healthy weight. If you currently have a healthy weight, work to maintain it. If you need to lose weight, aim for a slow, steady weight loss — 1 or 2 pounds (0.5 or 1 kilogram) a week. Combine daily exercise with a diet rich in vegetables, fruit and whole grains with smaller portions to help you lose weight.
• Choose a healthy diet. A diet full of colourful fruits and vegetables and whole grains may help reduce your risk of cancer.