Publication Date
Spring 2025
Document Type
Poster
Primary Faculty (Chairperson)
Dr. Brenda Senger
Secondary Faculty
Dr. Denise Ogorek
Abstract
Background
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common type of pancreatic cancer and among the most aggressive malignancies. It is projected to be the second leading cause of cancer related mortality in the United States by 2030. Due to its nonspecific early symptoms, PDAC often remains undetected until advanced stages, limiting treatment options and reducing survival rates.
Purpose
This project evaluated the impact of geographic distance on diagnostic staging and treatment initiation for patients with PDAC referred to the Providence Cancer Institute of Oregon (PCIO) from 2018-2023.
Methods
A retrospective chart review assessed the relationship between geographic distance, demographics, diagnostic staging, and treatment among PDAC patients at PCIO.
Analysis
Patients (N=701) referred to PCIO had a mean age of approximately 70 years and were predominantly white, with more females (52%) than males (48%), differing from national trends. No significant association was found between geographic distance and diagnostic staging. However, treatment initiation type was significantly associated with travel distance, indicating access barriers. Most patients presented with Stage IV disease, underscoring the need for improved early detection.
Implications for Practice
The absence of a significant relationship between geographic distance and diagnostic staging, yet a significant association with treatment initiation, indicates barriers to timely care access. The high prevalence of advanced stage PDAC and observed gender disparity further emphasize the need for earlier detection and investigation of referral patterns. Enhancing PDAC care may require targeted county level outreach, expanded telemedicine services, and application of the Donabedian Model to reduce disparities and enhance patient outcomes.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
Recommended Citation
Gielen, Irene, "Rural Access to Multidisciplinary Cancer Care Center for Patients with Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice. 5.
https://repository.gonzaga.edu/nursing_dnp/5
Research Paper