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About NETs

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OVERVIEW

About Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs)

What is a neuroendocrine tumor? Most people know very little about neuroendocrine tumors, until they are diagnosed. It is a frightening and stressful experience to learn you have a neuroendocrine tumor. This site offers information and resources to help patients and caregivers face a neuroendocrine tumor diagnosis.

The Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation focuses solely on neuroendocrine tumors. We fund research in search of a cure and we offer educational resources to patients, caregivers, and families living with neuroendocrine tumors. No matter where you are in your journey, we can help you:

What is a neuroendocrine tumor?

A neuroendocrine tumor (NET) – in some instances also referred to as a neuroendocrine neoplasm – is an uncommon cancer that forms in neuroendocrine cells. (Previously, NETs were called carcinoid tumors or carcinoid cancer.)

NEUROENDOCRINE CELLS

Neuroendocrine cells carry messages from the nervous system to the endocrine system. In response to these messages, the endocrine system makes and releases hormones into the bloodstream that control body functions like blood pressure, heart rate, digestion, breathing, and blood sugar levels.

Neuroendocrine cells occur in many different organs, including:

  • Gastrointestinal (GI) tract (small intestine, rectum, stomach, colon, esophagus, appendix)
  • Gallbladder
  • Pancreas
  • Thyroid
  • Lungs
  • Pituitary glands
  • Thymus
  • Kidneys
  • Prostate
  • Skin
  • Cervix
  • Ovaries
  • Testicles

To Learn More on This Topic...

Listen to Our Netwise Podcasts

Episode 1: What You Need to Know About NETs & NECs
Episode 21: Adjusting to the New Normal 
Episode 22: Navigating the New Normal

Get Insights from the Experts

Intro to Neuroendocrine Tumors, by Chih-Yi (Andy) Liao, MD
Neuroendocrine Neoplasms, by Thor Halfdanarson, MD
Finding Community – NET Support Groups Can Help, by Maigenete Mengesha, PhD
NETRF 2024 Know Your NETs Virtual Conference: NETs & NECs 101
NETRF 2024 Providence Conference: NET Impact – What do we Know Now?

Hear from NET Patients

Read about other NET patients and their journeys here. 

Explore NETRF-Supported Research

Learn about NETRF funded research here.