November 10, 2020: NET Cancer Awareness Day

WHEREAS, neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) often develop into cancer and can occur in most organs of the body, but are often found in the lungs, appendix, small intestine, rectum, and pancreas; and,

 

WHEREAS, oftentimes, the malignant and metastatic potential of NET cancers are underestimated; and,

 

WHEREAS, NET cancer patients are often misdiagnosed or receive a delayed diagnosis, which can have a negative impact on their chance of survival and quality of life; and,

 

WHEREAS, survival for NET cancer patients is further compromised by fragmented care and lack of access to treatment by networks of specialists; and,  

 

WHEREAS, if left untreated, NET cancers can result in serious illness and death, therefore timely diagnosis and proper treatment is essential for NET cancer patients; and,

 

WHEREAS, although there have been advances in the detection and treatment of NET cancers, not all patients are benefiting quickly enough from scientific and medical progress in the field; and,

 

WHEREAS, the increase in people who are diagnosed is thought to be mostly related to improvements in the way NETs are diagnosed, including better imaging tests and endoscopy and increased awareness of these tumors, and, therefore, it is important to continue to raise awareness of NETs through research, advocacy, and support;

 

NOW THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim November 10, 2020, as NET Cancer Awareness Day in Michigan.