YiminZ07/PanCanBench huggingface dataset:
Question: My father has pancreatic cancer and is experiencing vision changes. Could this be treatment-related?

Grading rubric:
description: The response recommends contacting the patient’s oncologist immediately.
description: The response instructs the patient to seek immediate medical evaluation if the vision changes are abrupt in onset, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms including dizziness, pain, confusion, fever, or other neurologic symptoms.
description: The response states vision changes related to treatment are not typical, though can be related to dry eyes or peripheral neuropathy from chemotherapy.
description: The response should mention that chemotherapy can cause vision changes (ocular toxicity). For example, gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil have been associated with retinal findings including cotton-wool spots and other visual disturbances.
description: The response states the oncologist may recommend dose reducing treatment or changing to a different treatment if the vision changes are felt to be treatment-related.
description: The response states vision changes may be related to metastasis to the brain.
description: The response should mention that ocular metastases may cause vision changes.
description: The response states vision changes may be related to paraneoplastic processes and explains what this is.
description: The response states the patient’s oncologist may prescribe medications to improve the vision changes, including eye drops, steroids, or antibiotics.
description: The response states the patient’s vision changes may be due to infection.
description: The response states the patient’s vision changes may be due to age-related vision changes.
Question: My mother has pancreatic cancer and we’re considering telehealth appointments. Are these as effective as in-person visits?

Grading rubric:
description: The response states that telehealth appointments are generally as effective as in-person visits for many aspects of care for patients with pancreatic cancer.
description: The response reviews the potential benefits of telehealth appointments, including reduced travel burden, lower costs, decreased infection risk, and improved access to expertise.
description: The response reviews the potential downsides of telehealth appointments, including potential differences in insurance reimbursement and challenges with physical examination.
description: The response states it can be challenging for a doctor to fully evaluate a patient via telehealth.
description: The response states telehealth can be a convenient alternative to in-office visits and may be helpful if the patient has mobility or transportation issues.
description: The response states in-office visits may be more appropriate in certain situations, including for initial visits or when there are big changes to the patient’s health or treatment plan.
description: The response recommends discussing telehealth options with the patient’s oncologist.
description: The response states not all oncologists offer telehealth appointments.
description: The response offers tips for making the most out of a telehealth appointment.
description: The response states medical emergencies are not appropriate for telehealth evaluations.
description: The response mentions that telehealth may be less suitable for sensitive discussions, such as new diagnosis or end-of-life care.
description: The response mentions that limitations of telehealth include technology barriers and occasional concerns about reduced personal connection or quality of interaction.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and is worried about hair loss from chemotherapy. What can we expect?

Grading rubric:
description: The response recommends discussing this with the patient’s oncologist.
description: The response states some chemotherapy treatments for pancreatic cancer can cause hair loss, for example, FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine.
description: The response provides reported estimates of hair loss with FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine and cites its sources.
description: The response states hair typically grows back once the causative treatment is stopped.
description: The response states cold caps are sometimes used to reduce hair loss but they can be expensive.
description: The response states hair loss from chemotherapy is a common and distressing side effect in patients undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer.
description: The response states other chemotherapy regimens or immunotherapy or targeted therapy cause hair loss at lower rates or not at all.
description: The response states many cancer patients wear hats or wigs to help with appearances and self-esteem.
description: The response recommends cancer support groups.
description: The response reports expected timelines for hair loss after starting chemotherapy.
description: The response mentions that the severity and risk of hair loss is higher with multi-agent and taxane-containing protocols, and female patients are at increased risk.
description: The response mentions that most cases of hair loss are reversible, with regrowth expected within 3-6 months after cessation of chemotherapy, but persistent or permanent alopecia can occur, especially after repeated or high-dose regimens.
description: The response mentions that eyebrow and eyelash loss may also be seen.
description: The response mentions that topical minoxidil may aid regrowth post-chemotherapy, though evidence for prevention is limited.
Question: My husband has pancreatic cancer and his oncologist mentioned oligometastatic disease. What does this mean?

Grading rubric:
description: The response defines oligometastatic disease in pancreatic cancer as a state where the cancer has spread to a limited number of sites, typically involving a single organ (e.g., liver or lung) and a small number of lesions, commonly defined as ≤3 to ≤5 metastases.
description: The response recommends discussing this with the patient’s healthcare team or oncologist.
description: The response discusses the potential impact oligometastatic disease may have on treatment options, including the possibility of aggressive multimodal therapy such as systemic chemotherapy followed by local treatments like surgery, ablation, or stereotactic radiotherapy, if there is a good response to initial therapy.
description: The response contrasts oligometastatic disease to localized disease and widespread metastatic disease.
description: The response mentions that patients with oligometastatic disease have the potential for an improved prognosis compared to widespread metastatic disease.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and we’re dealing with treatment delays due to low blood counts. Is this common?

Grading rubric:
description: The response states it is common for patients to have low blood counts due to chemotherapy used in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
description: The response states treatment delays due to low blood counts are enacted to ensure the patient’s safety.
description: The response states the oncologist may recommend dose reducing the chemotherapy or changing to a different treatment if the blood counts remain low.
description: The response gives examples of chemotherapy known to cause low blood counts.
description: The response lists the different types of low blood counts that may impact treatment, including anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and low total white blood cell count, and explains why these cells are important in layman’s terms.
description: The response states the oncologist may prescribe an injection medication (e.g., G-CSF) to help increase the neutrophil count.
description: The response states if the red blood cell or platelet counts get too low, the oncologist may order a transfusion of red blood cells or platelets to keep these at safe levels.
description: The response instructs the patient to seek immediate medical evaluation if they have low blood counts and experience fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, leg swelling, blood in the urine, blood in the stool, or other uncontrollable bleeding.
description: The response recommends ensuring good nutrition to ensure the bone marrow can produce the required blood cells.
description: The response must strongly recommend consulting with an oncologist or care team, providing specific questions or topics to discuss.
Question: My father has pancreatic cancer and is considering hyperthermia treatment. What is this?

Grading rubric:
description: The response recommends discussing this with the patient’s oncologist.
description: The response explains hyperthermia treatment for cancer in layman’s terms.
description: The response specifies that hyperthermia treatment involves heating tumor tissue to a temperature range of 39-43°C to enhance the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.
description: The response mentions all three delivery methods: regional (including ‘deep regional’), intraoperative, and whole-body hyperthermia.
description: The response reviews potential benefits and risks of hyperthermia treatment.
description: The response states hyperthermia is not an effective alternative to standard of care treatment for pancreatic cancer.
description: The response states hyperthermia is not a standard first-line therapy for pancreatic cancer.
description: The response states there is not robust evidence for the use of hyperthermia treatment in pancreatic cancer.
description: The response must mention that hyperthermia is used in pancreatic cancer as an adjunct to standard chemoradiotherapy for patients with locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic disease, especially when conventional therapies have limited efficacy or are refractory.
description: The response must state that adding hyperthermia to chemoradiotherapy may improve overall response rates and median survival compared to standard therapy alone, with acceptable safety profiles.
description: The response must explicitly state that the quality of evidence for hyperthermia is limited, it remains investigational, and there are ongoing trials evaluating its efficacy and optimal integration into multimodal treatment regimens.
Question: My mother has pancreatic cancer and we want to understand more about her genetic testing results. Who can help interpret these?

Grading rubric:
description: The response recommends discussing this with the patient’s oncologist.
description: The response recommends discussing this with a genetic counselor.
description: The response explains genetic testing and why it is done in cancer treatment, using layman’s terms.
description: The response includes in its explanation that certain genetic mutations like BRCA2 may be targets for targeted cancer therapies.
description: The response states that certain genetic mutations are associated with inherited cancer predisposition syndromes which may affect the patient’s relatives.
description: The response mentions that board-certified genetic counselors, medical geneticists, and oncologists can help determine the clinical significance of identified variants, discuss implications for surveillance, prevention, and treatment, and provide guidance for at-risk family members.
description: The response mentions that pathogenic variants in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, ATM, CDKN2A, and others may influence both therapeutic decisions and recommendations for family screening.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and is experiencing taste changes. How can we manage this?

Grading rubric:
description: The response recommends discussing this with the patient’s oncologist or a nutritionist.
description: The response states changes in taste are a common side effect of some chemotherapies used in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
description: The response recommends trying different foods and drinks to identify flavor profiles that are appealing.
description: The response states cold intolerance is a common side effect of oxaliplatin, so patients should avoid cold foods and drinks.
description: The response states changes in taste typically improve or disappear entirely when the causative medication is stopped.
description: The response emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper nutrition and hydration while undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer.
description: The response recommends nutritional supplements to ensure the patient is achieving their needs.
description: The response should mention that improved oral hygiene and active swallowing exercises may also promote taste recovery.
description: The response should mention that a referral to a registered dietitian is recommended for tailored nutritional strategies, as taste changes often lead to reduced appetite, altered food preferences, and risk of malnutrition.
description: The response should mention that dietitians can assist with food texture modification, flavor enhancement, and strategies to maintain adequate caloric and protein intake.
description: The response should mention that pharmacological and supplement-based interventions have been explored with mixed results. Further research is needed to establish standardized, effective interventions.
Question: My husband has pancreatic cancer and we’re considering exercise during treatment. What’s safe and beneficial?

Grading rubric:
description: The response recommends discussing the exercise plan with the patient’s oncologist or healthcare provider.
description: The response recommends gentle and slow exercise to avoid injury.
description: The response states patients undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer may be more prone to injury due to fatigue, malnutrition, dehydration, and pain.
description: The response recommends cancer support groups.
description: The response states gentle exercise participation may improve a cancer patient’s quality of life and offers published research studies as evidence.
description: The response cites any studies it mentions.
description: The response states there are exercise classes specifically for cancer patients and provides resources.
description: The response must explicitly mention that The American Society of Clinical Oncology recommends both aerobic and resistance exercise as safe and beneficial for patients with pancreatic cancer during chemotherapy, chemoradiotherapy, or neoadjuvant therapy.
description: The response must clearly state that physical activity should be tailored to individual capacity and comorbidities, using terms like “individual capacity,” “personalized,” or “tailored.”
description: The response must explicitly state that aerobic exercise (e.g., walking, cycling, swimming) and resistance training (e.g., weights, resistance bands) improve cardiorespiratory fitness, physical function, and reduce symptoms like fatigue and mood disturbances.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and we’re worried about the progression of the disease. What signs should we watch for?

Grading rubric:
description: The response recommends discussing this with the patient’s healthcare team.
description: The response recommends reporting any new symptoms to the patient’s healthcare team.
description: The response states it is important to separate side effects of treatment from progression of disease.
description: The response gives examples of new or worsening pain, jaundice, unintentional weight loss, and appetite changes as symptoms that may signify progression of disease.
description: The response states metastases to other sites in the body can have various symptoms and provides examples.
description: The response instructs the patient to seek immediate medical evaluation if they experience severe pain, jaundice, severe constipation, confusion, or neurologic changes.
description: The response must mention at least 10 of the following signs and symptoms indicating disease progression in pancreatic cancer: jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, pruritus, abdominal pain, back pain, weight loss, anorexia, fatigue, nausea/vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, new or worsening diabetes, bloating, belching, cachexia, or blood clots.
description: The response must mention gastrointestinal bleeding or rapidly declining performance status as alarm symptoms.
description: The response must explicitly state the importance of close monitoring of symptoms for timely intervention and supportive care.
description: The response must explicitly mention early integration of supportive care to optimize quality of life and address complications.
Question: My father has pancreatic cancer and his doctors mentioned neoadjuvant therapy. What does this mean?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should define neoadjuvant therapy.
description: The response should include that neoadjuvant treatment is given before the main treatment.
description: The response should include that neoadjuvant therapy usually occurs before surgery.
description: The response should include that neoadjuvant therapy is usually chemotherapy.
description: The response should include that radiation therapy can sometimes be used for neoadjuvant therapy.
description: The response should include that oncologists often evaluate the response of a person’s cancer after neoadjuvant therapy to determine the next steps.
description: The response should mention that the main goals of neoadjuvant therapy are to treat micrometastases early, improve chances of margin-negative (R0) resection, downstage advanced tumors, and ensure patients receive systemic therapy, as many can’t complete adjuvant treatment after surgery.
description: The response should mention that patient selection, multidisciplinary coordination, and management of therapy-related toxicities are critical, as attrition during neoadjuvant therapy can preclude surgery.
description: The response should recommend that the user discuss this case with an oncologist.
Question: My mother has pancreatic cancer and we’re considering music therapy. Are there benefits to this during treatment?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should state that music therapy can help with symptoms associated with pancreatic cancer.
description: The response should state that music therapy can help with anxiety.
description: The response should state that music therapy can improve quality of life.
description: The response should state that music therapy can help with depression.
description: The response should state that music therapy can help with pain.
description: The response should state that music therapy can help with fatigue.
description: The response states that music therapy is anti-cancer therapy.
description: The response should cite peer-reviewed publications with links.
description: The response should mention that the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the Society for Integrative Oncology recommend music therapy as a safe, non-invasive adjunct for managing anxiety and depression in adults with cancer, including those undergoing active treatment.
description: The response should mention that emerging evidence suggests music therapy may also modulate immune responses and support overall treatment outcomes, but further research is needed to clarify its biological effects and optimal use in pancreatic cancer.
description: The response should recommend that the user discuss this case with an oncologist.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and is worried about the impact on our pets. Should we be concerned about anything?

Grading rubric:
description: The response must state that pancreatic cancer is not contagious.
description: The response should state that chemotherapy can weaken the immune system and make someone at increased risk of infection.
description: The response should state that pets can carry infections that could be harmful to immunocompromised persons.
description: The response should recommend the patient discuss precautions related to chemotherapy excretion with a pharmacist.
description: The response should state that some chemotherapy drugs are excreted in urine.
description: The response should state that some chemotherapy drugs are excreted in stool.
description: The response should state that some chemotherapy drugs are excreted in saliva.
description: The response should state that some chemotherapy drugs are excreted in vomit.
description: The response should state that pets should avoid contact with excreted medications.
description: The response should state that pets should avoid contact with chemotherapy medications.
description: The response should state that pets should avoid contact with all medications.
description: The response should mention that pets provide significant emotional and psychological benefits to cancer patients.
description: The response should mention that to reduce exposure to chemotherapy and radiation residues, patients should take precautions to limit the impacts on their pets.
description: After chemotherapy, surfaces—especially in bathrooms—can remain contaminated for at least 48 hours, so thorough cleaning is advised.
description: Hand hygiene is essential after contact with patient waste or contaminated areas.
description: Immunocompromised patients should practice good hand hygiene after handling pets.
description: Immunocompromised patients should avoid contact with pet waste.
description: Immunocompromised patients should prevent pets from licking open wounds.
description: There is no strong evidence that pet ownership increases cancer risk or that pets need to be removed from the home during treatment.
description: If patients are severely immunosuppressed, they should avoid contact with young animals, reptiles, or exotic pets, and seek assistance with pet care.
description: The response should recommend that the user discuss this case with an oncologist.
Question: My husband has pancreatic cancer and his oncologist mentioned adjuvant therapy. What is this?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should define adjuvant therapy.
description: The response should state the goal of adjuvant therapy is to prevent cancer recurrence.
description: The response should include that adjuvant therapy usually occurs after surgery.
description: The response should include adjuvant therapy can be chemotherapy.
description: The response should include adjuvant therapy can be radiation therapy.
description: The response states that guidelines recommend all patients with resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma who did not receive preoperative therapy should be offered 6 months of adjuvant chemotherapy, unless there are medical or surgical contraindications.
description: The response states that adjuvant systemic therapy significantly improves survival compared to surgery alone.
description: The response states that the choice of adjuvant regimen should be individualized based on patient fitness and risk of toxicity.
description: The response recommends that the user discuss this case with an oncologist or cancer specialist.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and we’re dealing with constipation from pain medications. How can we manage this?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should recommend discussing constipation with their oncology team.
description: The response should recommend discussing pain medications with the oncology team.
description: The response should include that constipation is a side effect of opioid pain medications.
description: The response should recommend the use of a bowel regimen to help with constipation associated with pain medications, including the use of stimulant laxatives.
description: The response should recommend the use of a bowel regimen to help with constipation associated with pain medications, including the use of osmotic laxatives.
description: The response should recommend the use of a bowel regimen to help with constipation associated with pain medications, including the use of stool softeners.
description: The response should state that a combination of these treatments is sometimes needed.
description: The response should state that there are prescription medications that can directly target opioid-associated constipation.
description: The response should recommend hydration to improve constipation.
description: The response should recommend physical activity to improve constipation.
description: The response should mention that opioid-induced constipation is primarily due to reduced gut motility, and agents that increase water content or stimulate peristalsis directly address the underlying pathophysiology.
description: The response should mention that the American Gastroenterological Association recommends polyethylene glycol (PEG) and lactulose as effective osmotic agents, both of which significantly improve stool consistency and frequency compared to placebo.
description: The response should mention that soluble fiber may be considered only for patients with fiber-deficient diets, as it has limited efficacy in opioid-induced constipation due to its lack of effect on colonic motility.
description: The response should mention that enemas are reserved for rescue therapy and not for regular use.
Question: My father has pancreatic cancer and is considering meditation and mindfulness. Are these helpful during treatment?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should state that meditation and mindfulness can improve quality of life.
description: The response should state that meditation and mindfulness are not anti-cancer treatments.
description: The response should state that meditation and mindfulness can help emotional well-being.
description: The response should mention that meditation and mindfulness demonstrate moderate improvements in anxiety, depression, cancer-related fatigue, and overall quality of life in oncology populations, with effects maintained for at least several months post-intervention.
description: The response should mention that meditation and mindfulness are safe, feasible, and can be integrated alongside standard cancer care to help manage both physical and psychological symptoms.
description: The response should recommend that the user discuss this case with an oncologist.
Question: My mother has pancreatic cancer and we’re trying to understand the role of nutrition during treatment. What should we focus on?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should recommend discussing their concerns with an oncology nutritionist or dietitian.
description: The response should state that pancreatic enzyme supplements can help with digesting food when there is pancreatic enzyme deficiency.
description: The response should state that nutrition is important for maintaining strength or energy.
description: The response should state that nutrition is important for supporting the immune system.
description: The response should state that nutrition is important for maintaining weight.
description: The response should state the reasons for challenges with nutrition in patients with pancreatic cancer, including poor appetite.
description: The response should state the reasons for challenges with nutrition in patients with pancreatic cancer, including digestion difficulties.
description: The response should state the reasons for challenges with nutrition in patients with pancreatic cancer, including side effects of treatment like nausea.
description: The response should state they should focus on protein intake.
description: The response should state they should focus on calorie intake.
description: The response should recommend trying to manage nausea.
description: The response should recommend hydration.
description: The response should mention that patients with pancreatic cancer undergoing treatment are at high risk of malnutrition, cachexia, and weight loss, necessitating early and ongoing nutritional assessment and intervention.
description: The response should mention that dietary strategies should prioritize enteral nutrition over parenteral nutrition when oral intake is inadequate.
description: The response should mention that oral nutritional supplements, especially those enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, are beneficial for supporting body weight and lean body mass.
description: The response should mention that diet composition should emphasize a plant-enriched diet for overall health and cancer risk reduction.
description: The response should mention that current evidence does not support ketogenic diets for treatment.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and is experiencing memory issues. Could this be related to treatment?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should state that memory issues can be associated with chemotherapy.
description: The response should recommend discussing memory concerns with their oncology team.
description: The response should state that memory issues can be associated with pain medications.
description: The response should state that memory issues can be associated with poor nutrition.
description: The response should state that memory issues can be associated with dehydration.
description: The response should state that memory issues can be associated with anxiety.
description: The response should state that memory issues can be associated with depression.
description: The response should state that memory issues can be associated with fatigue.
description: The response should state that memory issues can be associated with stress.
description: The response should cite peer-reviewed articles with links.
description: The response should mention that memory issues in pancreatic cancer patients are frequently related to cancer treatment.
description: The response should mention that biological mechanisms underlying chemotherapy-induced cognitive changes include direct neurotoxic effects of chemotherapy, neuroinflammation, changes in brain structure and connectivity, and involvement of specific biomarkers and genetic predispositions.
description: The response should mention that cognitive impairment may also be influenced by the cancer itself, paraneoplastic effects, and other factors such as age, comorbidities, and emotional distress.
Question: My husband has pancreatic cancer and his doctors are discussing ablative techniques. What are these?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should define ablative techniques in the context of pancreatic cancer.
description: The response should state that ablative techniques in pancreatic cancer are used when surgery isn’t possible.
description: The response should describe types of ablative techniques used in pancreatic cancer, including radiofrequency ablation (RFA).
description: The response should describe types of ablative techniques used in pancreatic cancer, including microwave ablation (MWA).
description: The response should state that ablative techniques are not curative.
description: The response should state that ablative techniques in pancreatic cancer are used to manage symptoms.
description: The response should describe types of ablative techniques used in pancreatic cancer, including cryoablation.
description: The response should mention that these techniques are typically considered after or in conjunction with systemic chemotherapy, which remains the first-line treatment for locally advanced pancreatic cancer.
description: The response should describe types of ablative techniques used in pancreatic cancer, including irreversible electroporation (IRE).
description: The response should describe types of ablative techniques used in pancreatic cancer, including high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).
description: The response should mention that RFA delivers thermal energy via a probe to induce coagulative necrosis of tumor cells. RFA can be performed percutaneously, surgically, or via endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guidance.
description: The response should mention that RFA is the most studied thermal technique and has demonstrated feasibility and safety, with some evidence of improved survival and immune modulation.
description: The response should mention that MWA uses electromagnetic waves to generate heat and destroy tumor tissue.
description: The response should mention that MWA is emerging as an alternative to RFA, with potential advantages in speed and ablation volume, but clinical data remain limited.
description: The response should mention that IRE is a non-thermal technique that uses high-voltage electrical pulses to create permanent nanopores in cell membranes, leading to apoptosis.
description: The response should mention that IRE is particularly attractive for tumors near critical structures, as it spares connective tissue and vessels. It is increasingly used in locally advanced pancreatic cancer and is under investigation in randomized trials.
description: The response should mention that HIFU delivers focused ultrasound waves to induce thermal and mechanical destruction of tumor cells.
description: The response should mention that HIFU is less commonly used but has shown feasibility in clinical studies.
description: The response should recommend that the user discuss this case with an oncologist.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and we’re concerned about the quality of life during treatment. How do we maintain this?

Grading rubric:
description: The response explicitly recommends that the patient or family discuss goals of care (e.g., treatment goals, quality of life preferences, advanced care planning) with their oncologist or oncology team.
description: The response explicitly recommends discussing symptom management (e.g., pain, nausea, fatigue) with the oncology team or oncologist.
description: The response explicitly includes information about palliative care (e.g., mentions “palliative care,” “supportive care,” or “palliative care specialists” as a resource for symptom or quality of life management).
description: The response explicitly states or clearly implies that mental health professionals (e.g., counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist, mental health provider) can help patients deal with the emotional or psychological burden of cancer.
description: The response explicitly recommends discussing side effect management (e.g., side effects of treatment, managing adverse effects) with the oncology team or oncologist.
description: The response should mention that pancreatic cancer is an aggressive malignancy associated with a high symptom burden, including pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, and significant psychological distress.
description: The response should mention that palliative care is not synonymous with hospice; rather, it is an active, multidisciplinary approach to symptom management and psychosocial support that can be provided at any stage of disease, including during active cancer-directed therapy.
description: The response should mention that multidisciplinary collaboration can impact quality of life during treatment of pancreatic cancer.
description: The response should mention that advance care planning can impact quality of life during treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Question: My father has pancreatic cancer and is considering participating in advocacy work. What organizations can he connect with?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should include the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) as a major pancreatic cancer advocacy organization.
description: The response should recommend discussing advocacy options with their oncology team.
description: The response should mention that PanCAN is a leading national organization dedicated to patient advocacy, support, research funding, and public policy initiatives for pancreatic cancer.
description: The response should mention that PanCAN offers structured opportunities for patients and families to engage in advocacy, including legislative outreach, awareness campaigns, and peer support programs such as the Patient and Liaison Services (PALS) program.
description: The response should mention that the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s patient-facing website, Cancer.Net, provides information on advocacy opportunities and connects patients to broader cancer advocacy networks.
description: The response should mention that both PanCAN and Cancer.Net are specifically recommended by the American Society of Clinical Oncology in its clinical practice guidelines as key resources for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and we want to know what options are out there. They think she can have surgery but we aren’t sure what to do.

Grading rubric:
description: The response should state that the treatment of pancreatic cancer depends on the stage of the cancer.
description: The response should state that treatment of pancreatic cancer is multimodality and may include surgery.
description: The response should state that treatment of pancreatic cancer is multimodality and may include chemotherapy.
description: The response should state that treatment of pancreatic cancer is multimodality and may include radiation.
description: The response should state that chemotherapy can be used before or after surgery.
description: The response should state that pancreatic cancer management should involve a multidisciplinary team.
description: The response should state types of surgical procedures used in pancreatic cancer and describe the Whipple procedure.
description: The response should state types of surgical procedures used in pancreatic cancer and describe distal pancreatectomy.
description: The response should state types of surgical procedures used in pancreatic cancer and describe total pancreatectomy.
description: The response should state that surgical resection is the only potentially curative option for pancreatic cancer.
description: The response should state that deciding on surgery requires multidisciplinary evaluation and mention anatomical, biological, or patient factors.
description: The response should recommend discussing the case with an oncologist.
Question: My loved one died with pancreatic cancer. She had a less common type called Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumor. I’d like to know if that type tends to have a genetic component and if genetic testing is available.

Grading rubric:
description: The response should state that pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) are usually sporadic.
description: The response should mention that pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) do tend to have a genetic component in a significant minority of cases.
description: The response should include that some cases of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) are associated with hereditary syndromes.
description: The response should include multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1).
description: The response should include von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL).
description: The response should include neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).
description: The response should include tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).
description: The response should state that genetic testing is available for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
description: The response should recommend that they have concerns about the risk of cancer, they should talk with a genetic counselor.
description: The response should mention that approximately 10–17% of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) are associated with inherited syndromes.
description: The response should mention that these inherited syndromes often present at a younger age.
description: The response should mention that germline mutations are also found in sporadic-appearing pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs), including mutations in DNA repair genes such as MUTYH, CHEK2, and BRCA2, as well as MEN1 and VHL.
description: The response should mention that multigene panel testing is recommended, as it can identify both syndromic and non-syndromic germline variants relevant for familial risk assessment.
description: The response should recommend that the user discuss this case with a medical professional.
Question: Where can I find stories of hope? I have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, stage IV and I am feeling hopeless. I want to remain positive so that I can keep fighting.

Grading rubric:
description: The response mentions the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) as a source for survivor stories.
description: The response recommends asking the oncology team for additional support group recommendations.
description: The response mentions Cancer Support Community (CSC) as a resource for support or survivor stories.
description: The response mentions Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer survivor stories.
description: The response mentions the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s patient-facing website (www.cancer.net) as a source for stories of hope.
description: The response mentions that organizations provide patient and survivor stories, peer support networks, and opportunities to connect with others who have faced similar diagnoses.
description: The response mentions that peer support and shared experiences are recognized as powerful tools for maintaining motivation and a sense of hope during the cancer journey.
Question: Trying to gather information for my mother with stage IV pancreatic cancer. We are looking for everything we can do to improve her chance of survival and quality of life.

Grading rubric:
description: The response should define stage IV pancreatic cancer.
description: The response should include that the disease is not curable.
description: The response should include the goal of treatment is to control the cancer.
description: The response should include the goal of treatment to improve symptoms.
description: The response should mention that the cornerstone of treatment for stage IV pancreatic cancer is systemic chemotherapy.
description: The response should include chemotherapy regimens listed in NCCN guidelines (version 2.2025) for treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer.
description: The response should discuss that clinical trials are another option.
description: The response should state that there may be targeted treatments based on genetic mutations.
description: The response should recommend the tumor have genetic testing.
description: The response should mention that early palliative care referral is recommended at diagnosis to optimize symptom management, psychological support, and advance care planning.
description: The response should mention that aggressive symptom management, such as management of pain, fatigue, nausea, and gastrointestinal symptoms is essential.
description: The response should mention that pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy should be considered for exocrine insufficiency, and nutritional support is important for maintaining weight and strength.
description: The response should mention that psychosocial support, including counseling and peer support, is critical for both patients and families.
description: The response should recommend that the user discuss this case with an oncologist.
Question: My father has pancreatic cancer and we’re looking for the best specialists in our region. How do we identify top doctors?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should state that management of pancreatic tumors involves a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists.
description: The response should mention that outcomes are significantly improved when care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team at high-volume centers.
description: The response should provide information for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN).
description: The response should provide information for the American Cancer Society (ACS).
description: The recommendation should provide a link to the NCI website for finding an NCI-designated cancer center.
description: The response should mention that high-volume centers—defined as institutions performing at least 15 pancreatic resections annually—demonstrate superior survival rates, lower postoperative morbidity, improved lymphadenectomy, shorter hospital stays, and better access to adjuvant therapies.
description: The response should mention that high-volume centers are typically academic medical centers, National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers, or hospitals with established pancreatic cancer programs.
description: The response should mention to request referrals from local oncologists or primary care providers, who can direct patients to high-volume centers and experienced teams.
description: The response should recommend that the user discuss this case with an oncologist.
Question: My mother has pancreatic cancer and we’re concerned about the side effects of treatment on her heart. What should we monitor?

Grading rubric:
description: The response explicitly states that some chemotherapy can have negative effects on the heart.
description: The response specifically mentions that 5-fluorouracil (or “5-FU”) can harm the heart.
description: The response recommends monitoring for shortness of breath.
description: The response recommends monitoring for chest pain.
description: The response recommends monitoring for fast heart rate.
description: The response recommends monitoring for dizziness.
description: The response recommends monitoring for unusual fatigue.
description: The response explicitly recommends discussing any new symptom with the oncology team.
description: The response explicitly recommends discussing any concerning symptom with the oncology team.
description: The response states that electrocardiograms can be used to monitor the heart.
description: The response states that echocardiogram can be used to monitor heart function.
description: The response states that blood pressure can be used to monitor the heart.
description: The response specifically mentions that capecitabine can harm the heart.
description: The response specifically mentions that some targeted therapies can harm the heart.
description: The response explicitly states that pancreatic cancer treatments can cause at least three cardiac issues: heart failure, arrhythmias, hypertension, ischemia, or cardiomyopathy.
description: The response explicitly states that the risk of cardiac side effects is higher in patients with preexisting cardiovascular conditions or those receiving specific agents such as anthracyclines or fluoropyrimidines.
description: The response explicitly recommends baseline cardiac risk assessment and regular monitoring with echocardiography, cardiac biomarkers, and clinical evaluation for early/asymptomatic cardiac dysfunction.
description: The response explicitly references recommendations from the American College of Cardiology and/or the American Society of Clinical Oncology, stating that pretherapy evaluation and ongoing surveillance are recommended for patients with cardiovascular risk factors or those receiving cardiotoxic agents.
description: The response explicitly recommends that the user discuss the case with an oncologist.
Question: My loved one has pancreatic cancer and is considering stopping all treatment. How do we support this decision?

Grading rubric:
description: The response should include that treatment decisions are personal decisions.
description: The response should recommend listening to their feelings.
description: The response should recommend validating their feelings.
description: The response should recommend respecting their autonomy.
description: The response should recommend supporting their quality of life.
description: The response should recommend offering reassurance.
description: The response should mention that clear, compassionate communication about prognosis, treatment options, and goals of care is important.
description: The response should mention that transitioning to hospice care may be appropriate when the focus shifts entirely to comfort and dignity.
description: The response should mention that hospice provides intensive symptom management, psychosocial and spiritual support, and home-based care, while avoiding non-beneficial interventions such as hospitalization or aggressive procedures.
description: The response should mention addressing practical issues related to end-of-life decision-making, such as managing costs and accessing resources.
description: The response should recommend that the user discuss this case with an oncologist.