Pancreatic cancer is known as one of the most lethal tumors. Various unhealthy lifestyles have been linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer, but the impact of nutrition is unclear. Today, however, hope stems from an all-Italian study. Alessandro Carrer of the University of Padua has been awarded a €570,000 grant for his research, which found a correlation between excessive fructose consumption and pancreatic cancer. This consumption is linked to processed foods and should not be mistaken with plain fruit consumption. In recent decades, fructose consumption has increased dramatically, owing mostly to the use of beverages and foods sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup. Rising fructose consumption worldwide poses serious concerns for a variety of reasons, including a probable relation to increased cancer incidence. However, a causal association has yet to be established, making it difficult to apply effective prevention strategies. Professor Carrer's research has elucidated the metabolic pathway of fructose within the intestine and its potential to exert adverse effects on overall health, including the possible development of pancreatic tumors. "Preliminary data—derived from mouse models—indicate that diets exceedingly high in fructose facilitate pancreatic carcinogenesis", states Professor Carrer. Our hypothesis suggests that the intestinal flora metabolizes excess ingested fructose into acetate, a molecule that transmits deleterious signals to pancreatic cells". How will the studies be performed?  Mice will be given an amount of fructose similar to a human's daily consumption of a 350 mL can of sugary drink over a lengthy period of time. The researchers will then assess tumor genesis and progression. The results will eventually be confirmed in human patients.