Supportive care enhances the patient's quality of life, better manages cancer-related symptoms, and improves the experience of having cancer and receiving cancer care while also ensuring that the patient receives highest quality medical treatment.

Because gastrointestinal cancers can significantly affect quality of life, the Duke Gastrointestinal Cancers Program offers a full range of rehabilitation services designed to optimize each patient’s comfort and long-term function.

Trained specialists and compassionate volunteers offer educational and psychological support to patients and their families through the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program and the Duke Oncology Recreation Therapy Program.

The Duke Gastrointestinal Cancers Program encourages patients to take advantage of our various supportive care resources, including the Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Cancer Support Group.

Our team of trained counselors are devoted to guiding patients through their cancer care. Through one-on-one sessions, phone calls, and support groups, Duke Cancer Institute counselors provide patients, family members, and friends with an open, supportive environment.

Additional Support Services

Support services also available for patients in the gastrointestinal cancers program and their families include:

• Nutrition support: To speak with a clinical nutrition specialist, call 919-668-2290.
• Genetic evaluation and counseling: Patients with a strong family history of cancer can undergo genetic testing and counseling through the Hereditary Cancer Clinic.
• Pastoral care services: To speak with a chaplain call 919-684-3586.
• Social workers: For assistance with financial, family, home care needs, and emotional support, call 919-681-4722.
• Stress management: For information about the stress management program, call 919-681-3989.
• Duke Center for Living: A fitness, nutrition, and stress management program is available for cancer patients. A physician’s referral is needed and there is a charge for this program. Learn more about the Center for Living Campus.