Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and Pancreatic Cancer Patients

Patient Central is still available to help patients and families. Contact us M – F, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. PT Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and Pancreatic Cancer Patients The global pandemic of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) can create a lot of questions in people's minds, especially those considered at higher risk for being affected. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network's (PanCAN) interim chief medical officer, Joseph Herman, MD, MSc, MSHCM, recently answered frequently asked questions about the disease and how it affects pancreatic cancer patients.

Though a lot is unknown about COVID-19, patients who are actively receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy may have a weaker immune system and may be more susceptible. Patients recovering from surgery may also be at an increased risk. Check in with loved ones and family members, especially those at high risk, during this time. "Also, since there is a higher likelihood of pancreatic cancer patients having diabetes, and because there may be a higher risk of COVID-19 in people with diabetes, it's important to make every effort to keep your diabetes controlled," Dr. Herman said. PanCAN's Patient Central can provide patients and their loved ones with diabetes resources.

Contact Patient Central for pancreatic cancer information and resources, including information about COVID-19 and how it impacts our constituents. Patient Central can also connect you with professional, online and telephone support resources, including our Survivor & Caregiver Network. Especially during this challenging time, sharing your feelings, getting support and taking care of yourself are all important. Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep and exercise (if possible and approved by your doctor).