PanSupport Website a safe supportive space for people with pancreatic cancer

University of Melbourne researchers co-designed the PanSupport web-app, with patients, their families, carers and clinicians. It provides a hub of advice, resources and information to allow pancreatic cancer patients to live as well as possible. Topics include symptoms and care, accessing support groups, legal and financial advice, and looking ahead to end of life care.

University of Melbourne Chair in Cancer Nursing, Professor Meinir Krishnasamy, who led the website's development, said it was a place of respite from the overwhelming statistics confronting these patients.

"Each year, approximately 3,100 Australians are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer," Professor Krishnasamy said. "These patients experience significant symptom burden and poor prognosis.

"PanSupport provides the advice and assistance that people affected by pancreatic cancer need, when they need it, no matter where they are. It is a safe, supportive space, acting as an 'online companion' from diagnosis onwards.

"PanSupport is the first Australian research-based supportive care resource for and by people affected by pancreatic cancer, covering their physical, psychological, social, information and spiritual requirements."

PanSupport was produced by University of Melbourne in collaboration with key partners Pancare Foundation, RMIT University and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.