Is there a link between pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer?

Thomas E. Kowalski, MD

Academic Title: Clinical Assistant Professor

Director, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Board Certifications:
Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology

There is no established increased risk between acute pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. On the other hand, there does seem to be an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer in patients who have chronic pancreatitis. The magnitude of this increased risk is not well established.