Neuroendocrine Cancer Day: The Cancer Hiding in Plain Sight
- Written by: Business Daily Media
- Published in PR Newswire
Neuroendocrine cancer is Australia's seventh most prevalent cancer, yet awareness remains low. Symptoms such as persistent diarrhoea, flushing and unexplained abdominal pain can resemble more common conditions, contributing to delayed or missed diagnoses.
"Neuroendocrine cancer is often mistaken for menopause, irritable bowel syndrome or other common conditions, so people can go months or even years without the right diagnosis," said Meredith Cummins, NECA CEO and recent recipient of the Health and Social Services Government Relations Practitioner of the Year award.
"Neuroendocrine Cancer Day is about helping Australians recognise the signs, and making sure they know they don't have to navigate this alone."
Supporting Australians Wherever They Live
NECA relies on philanthropy and community donations to provide free specialist support to Australians living with neuroendocrine cancer, a community of more than 31,000 people.
Its national telehealth services include specialist NET Nurses, counselling and dietitian support, helping patients, carers and families access informed guidance regardless of location.
And demand for these services is growing, with patient contacts up 49% in 2025/26, including a 32% rise in new patients.
For Manuela, a patient from NSW, having access to a specialist NET Nurse provides reassurance.
"It is comforting to know that I can just dial a number and someone on the other end may have the answer that I need right away."
How Australians Can Help
With Government funding for these services ending in June 2027, NECA is encouraging Australians this Neuroendocrine Cancer Day to raise awareness and donate to help sustain its specialist services.
Donations made from 7–10 November will be matched by the Norman Family Trust, doubling their impact.
"Every donation helps us continue providing specialist support to people who might otherwise struggle to access it, particularly those in regional and remote communities," said Cummins.
To donate or get involved, visit https://fundraise.neuroendocrine.org.au/event/ncd-2026/
About NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia
NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia is the only Australian not-for-profit charity dedicated to supporting people affected by neuroendocrine cancers. NECA provides specialist nurse support, education, advocacy and research funding to improve awareness, earlier diagnosis and patient outcomes across Australia.
