Final answer:
Depression is the psychiatric disorder most often associated with pancreatic cancer due to the stress of the illness and its impact on quality of life. Late diagnosis often precludes surgery, and risk factors include smoking and chronic pancreatitis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pancreatic Cancer and Psychiatric Disorders
Pancreatic cancer is a serious illness that can have a significant impact on an individual's mental health. Among psychiatric disorders, depression is most often associated with pancreatic cancer. This association can be attributed to the psychological stress of dealing with a severe illness, the cancer's impact on the patient's quality of life, and potential biological effects of the cancer on mood regulation. Pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and diabetes mellitus are noted disorders of the pancreas, with pancreatic cancer being particularly challenging due to its late discovery, often making it too late for surgery which is the only way to cure it. Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include smoking, chronic pancreatitis, and diabetes mellitus. Understanding these associations is crucial for providing comprehensive care to patients and addressing not only their physical but also their mental well-being.