Improving quality of life through pain control.

The pancreas is an externally excreting gland located in the abdominal cavity behind other organs. Difficulty palpating and viewing the pancreas often contributes to late diagnoses of tumors. In advanced disease, episodes of unmanaged pain have a negative impact on patients and family members and may affect many areas of well-being. Palliative care assists oncologists as well as patients and families with legitimate options for treating advanced disease, relieving symptom burdens and improving quality of life.