In a new study conducted by the UCLA School of Nursing, researchers will assess how supportive care can increase the overall quality of life, and potentially survival rates, in pancreatic cancer patients.
It is known that pancreatic cancer patients, and their caregivers, often experience increased levels of depression and a high symptom burden. Furthermore, when patient-reported symptoms are integrated into routine care, there is evidence of increased survival time. We know that supportive care to improve symptoms, reduce hospital stays and preserve quality of life is imperative. This innovative new study will employ online nursing check-ins to track patients’ symptoms and improve supportive care, with the goal to reduce overall pain.
The study will also evaluate how the smartphone app, chemoWave, can increase collaboration with caregivers and improve patient wellbeing by recording and monitoring patients’ physical and emotional states.
By focusing on supportive care for both patients and caregivers, this study hopes to improve overall quality of life, and potentially survival rates for those facing pancreatic cancer.
