Pancreatic Cancer Advocacy, Education, and Support Groups

 

You'll be surprised at just how many organizations there are that are devoted to cancer. The following organizations provide a variety of programs, educational materials, and other forms of support for people with pancreatic cancer, their family members, caregivers, and friends. However, remember that this is not an endorsement of these organizations and the information they provide. You should always discuss any questions or concerns you have with your health care provider.

American Cancer Society

http://www.cancer.org

1-800-ACS-2345     

1-866-228-4327 for TTY

The American Cancer Society (ACS) is a national organization working to eradicate cancer through research, advocacy, and service.  Among its many services, the ACS has a call center that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to answer questions about cancer and link callers with resources in their communities. 

CancerCare

http://www.cancercare.org

Telephone: 1-800-813-4673

E-mail: info@cancercare.org

CancerCare, founded in 1944, is a national nonprofit organization that provides free, professional support services to anyone affected by cancer: people with cancer, caregivers, children, loved ones, and the bereaved. CancerCare programs–including counseling, education, financial assistance, and practical help–are provided by trained oncology social workers and are completely free. 

Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Foundation

http://www.pancreatic.org

The foundation supports pancreatic cancer research.  The website includes pancreatic cancer information and breaking news.

National Cancer Institute

http://www.cancer.gov

1-800-422-6237

TTY: 1-800-332-8615

The NCI is a federal organization and a component of the National Institute of Health. The NCI’s National Cancer Program supports and conducts research and distributes cancer information.  The website includes information about various cancer topics, research information, and cancer statistics. The website also includes a description of the NCI's initiative to eliminate cancer death and suffering by the year 2015.

Oncolink

http://www.oncolink.org

Cancer specialists from the University of Pennsylvania founded Oncolink to provide cancer information to cancer patients, health care professionals, and the general public.  The website includes information about various cancer topics, coping information, and an “Ask the Experts” section.  

PanCAN (Pancreatic Cancer Action Network)

http://www.pancan.org

1-877-272-6226

This website includes information about pancreatic cancer, tips from survivors, and caregiver support. This website also includes public policy information regarding pancreatic cancer and an opportunity to contact the PALS program.  The PALS program allows patients to connect with other patients and survivors and learn about clinical trials. 

The Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research

http://www.lustgarten.org

1-866-789-1000

This foundation and website provide information about pancreatic cancer and telephone and online support groups. The website also includes information about conferences and fundraising events. 

This content was last reviewed August 15, 2010 by Dr. Reshma L. Mahtani.
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