Acute pancreatitis is a common cause of hospitalization in the US, with a 2-fold increase since 1988. Chronic pancreatitis, though less common, significantly impacts quality of life. Pancreatic cancer is among the top 5 causes of cancer death. Risk factors for pancreatitis include gallstones, alcohol, and smoking, while non-O blood types and smoking are significant for pancreatic cancer. Alcohol is the leading risk factor for chronic pancreatitis, and smoking increases the risk of both acute and chronic pancreatitis. Smoking cessation is the most effective strategy to reduce pancreatic cancer risk. Obesity, diabetes, and certain blood types also contribute to pancreatic cancer risk. The burden of pancreatic diseases is expected to rise. Pancreatitis is more common in men, and Black individuals have higher risks than other races. Lifestyle factors like alcohol and smoking are major contributors. Diet, obesity, and metabolic factors also play roles. Genetic factors and autoimmune diseases can contribute to pancreatitis. Pancreatic cancer risk is influenced by chronic pancreatitis, hereditary factors, and certain infections. Effective prevention strategies include smoking cessation, alcohol moderation, and managing diabetes. Future research should focus on genetic and environmental factors, as well as improving diagnosis and treatment methods.Acute pancreatitis is a common cause of hospitalization in the US, with a 2-fold increase since 1988. Chronic pancreatitis, though less common, significantly impacts quality of life. Pancreatic cancer is among the top 5 causes of cancer death. Risk factors for pancreatitis include gallstones, alcohol, and smoking, while non-O blood types and smoking are significant for pancreatic cancer. Alcohol is the leading risk factor for chronic pancreatitis, and smoking increases the risk of both acute and chronic pancreatitis. Smoking cessation is the most effective strategy to reduce pancreatic cancer risk. Obesity, diabetes, and certain blood types also contribute to pancreatic cancer risk. The burden of pancreatic diseases is expected to rise. Pancreatitis is more common in men, and Black individuals have higher risks than other races. Lifestyle factors like alcohol and smoking are major contributors. Diet, obesity, and metabolic factors also play roles. Genetic factors and autoimmune diseases can contribute to pancreatitis. Pancreatic cancer risk is influenced by chronic pancreatitis, hereditary factors, and certain infections. Effective prevention strategies include smoking cessation, alcohol moderation, and managing diabetes. Future research should focus on genetic and environmental factors, as well as improving diagnosis and treatment methods.