Support for Pancreatic Cancer

If you are experiencing any symptoms that suggest pancreatic cancer has returned or worsened, your doctor may test your CA 19-9 tumor marker levels or order CT scans or MRI scans.

Our doctors and nurses can also refer you to supportive services at Perlmutter Cancer Center, which are designed to help you feel better during and after treatment.

Doctors at NYU Langone’s Rusk Rehabilitation evaluate you and prescribe physical therapy that can help you with moving after surgery, which may allow you to return home sooner. Our doctors can also prescribe medications for postoperative pain and discomfort that may be interfering with your ability to perform everyday activities.

Our doctors prescribe a rehabilitation program focusing on strength training and aerobic exercise, which can reduce tumor related weakness and fatigue. It can also improve balance, flexibility, and mobility.

Our doctors encourage healthy eating for people with pancreatic cancer. Good nutrition is particularly important if the digestive tract has changed because of surgery.

Registered oncology dietitians at Perlmutter Cancer Center and our specialists in endocrinology and nutrition can provide education and counseling on how to eat healthfully.

Support groups and one-on-one counseling sessions with a psycho-oncologist, a healthcare provider trained to address the psychological needs of people with cancer, are available at Perlmutter Cancer Center. Our pancreatic cancer group provides ongoing support to our patients and their caregivers through weekly meetings and discussions.

Psychological support can often help you cope with any depression or anxiety you might experience during treatment. Social workers are also available to address any financial matters that may arise during your treatment.

Our supportive care team is available to provide you with relief from any discomfort or pain associated with pancreatic cancer or its treatments.

Your doctor may recommend pain relief medications, one of our integrative health services, or a combination. Integrative health services include massage therapy, which can help reduce stress, and acupuncture, which may relieve fatigue related to chemotherapy and radiation. Our yoga program can help you relax and improve your strength.