Pancreatic cancer is a complex malignancy associated with poor prognosis and high symptom burden. Optimal patient care relies on the integration of various sectors in the healthcare field as well as innovation through research. The Canadian National Pancreas Conference (NPC) was co-organized and hosted by Craig’s Cause Pancreatic Cancer Society and The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons in November 2023 in Montreal, Canada. The conference sought to bridge the gap between Canadian healthcare providers and researchers who share the common goal of improving the prognosis, quality of life, and survival for patients with pancreatic cancer. The accredited event featured discussion topics including diagnosis and screening, value-based and palliative care, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, cancer-reducing treatment, and an overview of the current management landscape. The present article reviews the NPC sessions and discusses the presented content with respect to the current literature.

Background: There is currently little Canadian data to assess how well traditional time-based residency training programs have prepared residents for careers in Clinical Immunology and Allergy (CIA). This study aims to identify the perceived preparedness of residents in various areas of practice upon the completion of a Canadian CIA residency training program. Methods: In the summer of 2020, an electronic survey was sent to 2018 and 2019 graduates of Canadian CIA training programs by the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI). Results: Former residents felt well prepared in most Medical Expert areas. Residents felt less prepared for the intrinsic roles of Leader, Communicator, Collaborator, Health Advocate, Scholar, and Professional. The majority of the intrinsic competencies were learned through mentorship and on the job after finishing training. Conclusions: Upon completion of training, Canadian CIA residents felt well prepared for many competencies, particularly in Medical Expert areas. Training programs may wish to focus on various intrinsic competencies in order to better prepare residents for transition to practice. Academic half-day was not identified as a primary learning centre for intrinsic competencies, suggesting that new teaching strategies may be required.

Objectives: Individuals living with advanced pancreatic cancer (APC) face a poor prognosis and high symptom burden. Although exercise training is an evidence-based approach in improving physical and psychological health outcomes in those living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis, there is limited research exploring its role and integration within advanced pancreatic care. The aim of this study was to explore the exercise experiences and perspectives of individuals living with APC in Canada. Methods: Using a qualitative interpretive description methodology, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 6 individuals diagnosed with advanced (stage III or IV) exocrine pancreatic cancer from across Canada. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and transcripts were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Inductive and deductive analysis was conducted using the Behaviour Change Wheel and Theoretical Domains Framework as guiding lenses. Results: Three themes were identified impacting how individuals living with APC perceive and experience exercise: (1) Taking control of my journey ; (2) Building the motivation ; and (3) If it was a program for me. Significance of results: This study highlights aspects of the perception of exercise in pancreatic cancer care among individuals living with advanced disease in Canada. Integration of progressive programming, realistic goal setting, and fostering of a supportive environment were identified as important considerations for the care context.

Background: There is currently little Canadian data to assess how well traditional time-based residency training programs have prepared residents for careers in Clinical Immunology and Allergy (CIA). This study aims to identify the perceived preparedness of residents in various areas of practice upon the completion of a Canadian CIA residency training program. Methods: In the summer of 2020, an electronic survey was sent to 2018 and 2019 graduates of Canadian CIA training programs by the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI). Results: Former residents felt well prepared in most Medical Expert areas. Residents felt less prepared for the intrinsic roles of Leader, Communicator, Collaborator, Health Advocate, Scholar, and Professional. The majority of the intrinsic competencies were learned through mentorship and on the job after finishing training. Conclusions: Upon completion of training, Canadian CIA residents felt well prepared for many competencies, particularly in Medical Expert areas. Training programs may wish to focus on various intrinsic competencies in order to better prepare residents for transition to practice. Academic half-day was not identified as a primary learning centre for intrinsic competencies, suggesting that new teaching strategies may be required.