Smart, supportive cancer pain management
Helping patients and providers understand the role of opioids in treating cancer pain
Resources to help you make informed, confident decisions about your pain management plan
People with cancer are often prescribed opioids to manage pain during treatment. While opioids can be a vital tool for relief, they also carry serious risks and side effects. Our team at the Massey Comprehensive Cancer Care Center has partnered with the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority to reduce opioid-related harm and provide a free resource database for patients, caregivers, and providers across the country.
of patients experience pain during treatment
1 in 5
patients may be at risk for opioid use disorder
of patients experience pain after cancer
Patient Video Guide
A short series exploring cancer pain and strategies for safe, effective pain management.
The Essentials
A guide to Opioids and Cancer Pain
Cancer Pain
Making a plan that works for you
Opioid Safety
What every patient
should know
For Patients
Resources to help manage pain during cancer treatment
Pain Tracking Tool →
Questions to ask your doctor →
Safety and Naloxone →
Tolerance, Dependence, and Addiction →
For providers
Resources for prescribing opioids in cancer pain
ASCO prescribing guidelines →
Virginia Prescription Monitoring Program →
About Palliative Care →
Validated Assessment Tools →
For providers
Project ECHO
The Opioids & Cancer ECHO series is designed to help healthcare professionals navigate the complexities of cancer-related pain and opioid use. Through a case-based collaborative learning model, participants can share real-world challenges, gain practical insights, and build best practices across systems. Continuing education credit is available through VCU Health.