Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with poor survival, as most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage when curative treatment is no longer possible. As efforts to improve early detection increase, understanding patient and caregiver experiences becomes increasingly important. This study aimed to explore patient and caregiver experiences of PDAC in Greece and identify barriers and facilitators relevant to future early detection and surveillance programmes.
METHODS: An online focus group was conducted with six participants recruited through the Hellenic Cancer Federation (ELLOK), the umbrella organisation representing cancer patient associations in Greece. Participants included three patients with PDAC and three caregivers. The discussion was guided by a structured questionnaire covering surveillance and testing, impact on daily life, emotional and psychological burden, social and healthcare experiences, future concerns and support needs, and digital platforms and artificial intelligence. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.
RESULTS: Participants described delayed diagnosis, fragmented care pathways, limited disease awareness, and difficulties accessing specialised expertise. Participants strongly supported surveillance and early detection programmes that could facilitate earlier diagnosis, while caregivers highlighted the potential value of surveillance for individuals with hereditary risk. Emotional burden emerged as a central theme, with patients describing shock, uncertainty, and fear following diagnosis, and caregivers reporting the need to remain emotionally strong despite their own distress. Participants emphasised the need for specialised pancreatic cancer centres, clearer guidance throughout the patient journey, and greater access to psychological support. Although digital tools were considered useful sources of information, participants preferred clinician-led communication of important medical information and healthcare decisions.
CONCLUSIONS: Findings highlight substantial unmet needs related to diagnosis, information provision, care coordination, and psychosocial support among individuals affected by PDAC in Greece. Future surveillance and early detection initiatives should incorporate patient-centred communication, specialist expertise, and appropriate support mechanisms for both patients and caregivers.