June 1, 2020
By Anne Dabbs,
NCAN TN Chapter Leader, NET Patient
When you live in the world of having a rare disease, big time recognization and public awareness moments are few and far between. Publicity oftentimes accompanies a public figure’s death announcement and is frequently inaccurate. Neuroendocrine Cancer patients are dealt the double blow of a chronic illness and inadequate recognition among the medial field and the general public.
Beginning this month, our Nets patients are getting some much needed and appreciated awareness in a worldwide video advertisement by Ipsen Biopharmaceutials for Somatuline Depot (Lanreotide). Lanreotide is one of the most frequently prescribed medicines for a newly diagnosed Nets patient. It’s two most recognized benefits are slowing growth of tumors and management of Carcinoid Syndrome symptoms.
Why is this exciting news for our community? In the US, approximately 12,000 patients annually receive the news of a NETs diagnosis, and it is frequently accompanied by the statement “You’ve probably had this cancer for 5-10 years already.” Yet, Neuroendocrine Cancer remains classified as a rare disease (less than 200,000 diagnosed cases in the US). Consequently, we lag behind other chronic conditions in terms of education, research, and available treatments. For Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals to support our rare condition with this advertising project tells us that the potential for quicker and more accurate diagnosis is in our near future.
Take 1.32 minutes to view the commercial and share this heightened awareness with others. Increased conversations and recognitions benefit us all. We are certainly headed in the right direction, which is cause to celebrate.
Find out more about how YOU can help the NET Community.
Disclaimer: NCAN blog posts are the opinions of its writers and are not intended as a replacement for medical advice. Please consult your Health Care Providers for individual concerns.
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