Causes of Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term inflammation of the pancreas, often linked to alcohol use, genetics, and a few medical conditions.

Main Causes

• Alcohol misuse: Most common cause, especially after repeated heavy drinking over many years.

• Smoking: Independently increases risk and worsens outcomes.

• Genetic factors: Inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis or genetic mutations can cause chronic pancreatitis in both children and adults.

• Autoimmune conditions: Sometimes the body’s immune system attacks the pancreas.

• Repeated acute pancreatitis: Multiple attacks, often from gallstones, can eventually damage the pancreas permanently.

• Obstructions and Trauma: Blocked ducts, abdominal injury, or previous surgery.

• High triglycerides or calcium levels: Certain metabolic problems can trigger chronic damage.

• Certain medicines: Rarely, some drugs can damage the pancreas over time.

• Idiopathic (unknown cause): In about 20% of cases, no cause is found.

What Patients Should Know

1. Alcohol and smoking are the top preventable risk factors for chronic pancreatitis in adults.

2. Genetic and autoimmune causes are more likely in children and younger people.

3. Long-term inflammation leads to pain, digestion problems, and sometimes diabetes.

4. Early recognition and stopping drinking/smoking can delay progression.