Description:
The most common type of pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma forms in exocrine cells of the pancreas. Exocrine pancreas cells make up the glands and ducts that produce enzymes (digestive juices) to help with digestion. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma occurs when exocrine cells grow out of control and form a tumor. Factors that may increase a person’s risk of developing pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma include having a family history of the disease, chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), certain genetic syndromes, type 2 diabetes, excess body weight or obesity, exposure to certain chemicals, and smoking. It is usually found at an advanced stage because it usually does not cause symptoms early on. Also called PDAC.
