NET Cancer Awareness Day was marked yesterday, November 10, uniting the global community in support of individuals affected by neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). This annual initiative raises international awareness of these complex and often misunderstood cancers that can develop in various organs throughout the body.
Each year, patients, clinicians, researchers, and advocates join forces to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, equitable access to specialized care, and continued research advancements in the field of neuroendocrine oncology.
Understanding Neuroendocrine Tumors
Neuroendocrine tumors originate from neuroendocrine cells, which have characteristics of both nerve cells and hormone-producing cells. These tumors can develop in multiple organs, most commonly in the gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and lungs.
NETs can be functional, producing hormones that cause clinical syndromes, or non-functional, remaining silent until they reach advanced stages. Because of their nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, flushing, or abdominal pain NETs are frequently misdiagnosed or discovered late, often years after symptom onset.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
The central goal of NET Cancer Awareness Day is to draw attention to the diagnostic challenges surrounding these tumors. Delayed recognition can significantly impact treatment outcomes, as early-stage NETs are often more manageable with surgery or targeted therapies.
Clinicians are urged to consider NETs in their differential diagnoses when encountering unexplained, chronic symptoms. Awareness campaigns emphasize the need for multidisciplinary collaboration among oncologists, endocrinologists, radiologists, and pathologists to ensure accurate and timely diagnosis.
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Advances in Treatment and Research
Recent years have seen notable progress in NET management, including the use of somatostatin analogs, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), and novel targeted agents. These advances have improved symptom control, quality of life, and survival outcomes for many patients.
Ongoing research continues to explore the molecular biology of NETs, seeking to identify new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Collaborative efforts between international research groups and patient advocacy organizations are critical to accelerating these developments.
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A Global Community United by Awareness
NET Cancer Awareness Day was first established in 2010 through the coordinated efforts of patient groups and medical professionals worldwide. The signature symbol of the day the zebra reminds the public and clinicians that when they “hear hoofbeats,” sometimes the cause is not a horse but a zebra, symbolizing rare diseases like NETs.
Global landmarks are illuminated in white and black stripes each year, representing solidarity with the NET community and the ongoing fight for recognition, research, and resources.
And quoting Dr. Carolin Pyka:
Why the zebra?
When we hear hoofbeats, we usually think of horses, the familiar and common. But sometimes, it’s actually a zebra. NETs are those “zebras” in medicine: rare, often overlooked, and deserving of greater awareness. That’s why the zebra has become the symbol of the global NET community.
Moving Forward
As awareness grows, so does hope. NET Cancer Awareness Day serves as a reminder that informed vigilance can lead to earlier detection, more effective treatment, and better patient outcomes. Continued advocacy, education, and research collaboration are key to transforming the outlook for individuals affected by neuroendocrine tumors.
Global Voices on Social Media
This year’s campaign gained remarkable visibility across digital platforms under hashtags such as LetsTalkAboutNETs, NETCancerDay and KnowTheZebra.
Prominent oncologists, advocacy groups, and institutions shared educational resources, personal reflections, and messages of support.
Organizations like the International Neuroendocrine Cancer Alliance (INCA) and the Neuroendocrine Cancer UK led coordinated efforts to spread awareness, encourage early detection, and celebrate patient resilience.
Clinicians and researchers joined the conversation by emphasizing the importance of recognizing subtle symptoms and expanding access to specialized care. Many survivors also shared their journeys, turning their experiences into powerful tools for education and empowerment.
“NET Awareness – Day 10
NET Cancer Day
Today is NET Cancer Day — a global moment to raise our voices for everyone affected by neuroendocrine tumours.
To every patient, survivor, caregiver, researcher and doctor working toward faster diagnosis and better care: thank you.
Together we can turn awareness into action, and action into hope. ”
“Yesterday was NET Cancer Day – a moment to raise awareness for neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), a group of rare and often misunderstood cancers. Many people living with NETs experience long diagnostic journeys, which makes awareness and education all the more important.
By talking about NETs, we help bring visibility to the challenges patients face and the ongoing efforts in research, diagnosis, and treatment.
Why the zebra?
When we hear hoofbeats, we usually think of horses, the familiar and common. But sometimes, it’s actually a zebra. NETs are those “zebras” in medicine: rare, often overlooked, and deserving of greater awareness. That’s why the zebra has become the symbol of the global NET community.
Let’s keep the conversation going — awareness leads to earlier diagnosis and better care.”
The Oncology Insights Podcast:
“Today, we recognize World Neuroendocrine Tumor (NET) Awareness Day, a moment to raise visibility for patients and professionals dedicated to advancing NET research and care. Awareness drives progress, and continued collaboration is key to improving diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes. Let’s stand together in support of innovation and knowledge sharing within the oncology community.
Listen to The Oncology Insights Podcast for expert discussions shaping the future of cancer care.”
“Today is World NET Cancer Awareness Day!
Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) are rare, often complex cancers that can be difficult to diagnose, but early detection and awareness can save lives.
At PREVENTABLE, we stand with the NET community and continue working toward better prevention, early diagnosis, and equitable care for people living with Rare Tumour Risk Syndromes (RTRS) across Europe.
Let us shine a light on NETs, because awareness makes a difference.”
Written by Nare Hovhannisyan, MD