WORLD Neuroendocrine Cancer Day on 10 November will see the Big Banana and Macksville Bridge lit up blue to provide a global voice for patients with neuroendocrine cancer and hereditary neuroendocrine tumours (NETs).
Held annually, the awareness campaign draws global attention to this little known, often misunderstood cancer.
It is designed to spark conversations among communities, clinicians and governments under the banner #LetsTalkAboutNETs and Every Stripe tells a Story.
Neuroendocrine Cancer Australia (NECA) is a member of the International Neuroendocrine Cancer Alliance (INCA).
The organisations share campaign resources and stories to highlight the experiences of NET patients, and their caregivers, and to encourage early detection and equitable care.
“Let’s Talk About NETs” invites patients and supporters everywhere to inspire friends, families and communities to become ambassadors for awareness and change.
Over 31,000 Australians are living with neuroendocrine cancer and, this year, the goal is to expand online resources so every NET patient can access NET-specific care.
Neuroendocrine cancer is Australia’s seventh most diagnosed cancer, but its symptoms often mimic more common diseases, leading to frequent misdiagnosis.
By hosting a morning tea, dinner or personal challenge, supporters help raise awareness and vital funds.
“From morning teas to dinner parties to personal challenges, there are many ways to show your support,” Neuroendocrine Cancer Australia CEO Meredith Cummins said.
“A simple idea can ripple out: host a get-together, share your story, ignite conversation and spark change.”
The local Coffs Coast Neuroendocrine Cancer Support Group is facilitated by Andrea Stafford.
“We are committed to encouraging and sustaining one another in living with NETs, but are equally energised in the quest to raise awareness of this complex cancer in the wider community,” she told News Of The Area.
“We all share stories of delayed diagnosis, lack of understanding (even within the medical profession), and limited treatment options.
“This is why we believe it is vital to grasp any opportunity to ‘spread the word about NETs’.
“We want to raise awareness to quicken diagnosis, and encourage research and further investment.
“Only then can we be supported in living as well as we can now, while also improving outcomes for those who will be affected in the future.”
Neuroendocrine Cancer Australia (NECA) is the only Australian charity solely dedicated to improving awareness, understanding and outcomes for people living with neuroendocrine tumours.
By Andrea FERRARI
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