Booklets & Guides
Newly Diagnosed
A neuroendocrine cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty and many questions about what lies ahead.
Here, you will find clear information to help you understand neuroendocrine cancer and support you through your new diagnosis.
Giving yourself space
Being diagnosed with a neuroendocrine cancer can take time to process. Many people need space to absorb new information, adjust to unfamiliar terminology, and consider what the diagnosis means for their life and health.
Your response may change over time, and that’s okay. Allowing yourself to move forward at a pace that feels right for you can help support adjustment and emotional wellbeing.
Supporting your emotional wellbeing
A neuroendocrine cancer diagnosis can affect more than just your physical health. Feelings such as anxiety, stress, low mood, or emotional exhaustion are common, particularly during periods of diagnosis, testing or treatment.
Looking after your emotional wellbeing is an important part of care. Small, practical strategies to manage stress can help maintain balance, and seeking support is a positive step if things begin to feel overwhelming.
Understanding neuroendocrine cancer
Neuroendocrine cancers are complex and can behave differently from other cancers. Learning about neuroendocrine cancer can help you feel more informed and empowered when speaking with your healthcare team and your loved ones. Understanding your diagnosis, test results, and treatment options can make it easier to participate in decisions about your care. NECA provides clear, reliable information to support your understanding of neuroendocrine cancer at every stage.
Accessing help and support
Support is available, and you don’t have to navigate this experience alone. NECA offers a range of free support services for people living with neuroendocrine cancer, as well as their friends and families.
Optimal Care Pathway
Ensure you receive the right care, at the right time, in the right place with the Optimal Care Pathway (OCP) for Neuroendocrine Cancer. Take a copy of the OCP with you when you meet with your GP.
Booklets & Guides
Quick Reference Guide for Healthcare Professionals
Educational Videos
Optimal Care Pathway for Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs)
HCP Videos
Neuroendocrine Cancer Symptoms: Full Interview with Dr David Chan
Booklets & Guides
Neuroendocrine tumours: A guide for healthcare professionals
Treatments at a Glance
Explore the different treatments available for neuroendocrine cancer and what to expect from your care plan.
Support Groups
A new diagnosis can feel scary, but you are not alone.
Join our online or in person state-based support groups to connect with other people who understand and are living with neuroendocrine cancer.
Private Facebook Support Groups
Our private, moderated Facebook groups offer a flexible way to connect online with others living with neuroendocrine cancer. These groups provide peer support, shared experiences, and community connection, whether you’re newly diagnosed or further along your journey.
Helpful Resources
Booklets & Guides
Neuroendocrine tumours: A guide for patients and carers
Fact Sheets
Questions to Ask
Booklets & Guides
Living with a NET
Patient Stories
Cassie, QLD
- Large Bowel
I’m a 36-year-old mum of three little humans – things like this just doesn’t happen to people like me. Until all of a sudden it does, and everything changes
Michael, QLD
- Small Bowel
The Emergency Department completed scans and told me I had appendicitis. When they transferred me to another hospital for surgery, the doctors noticed a small lump in my bowel and investigated further. I was told I had cancer, and no other information was provided at that time.
Chris, WA
- Small Bowel
I have worked in healthcare my entire life I had never heard of NETs until my diagnosis and I’m pretty sure none of the doctors I had seen in the lead up to diagnosis knew about it either.
Newly Diagnosed FAQs
NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia (NECA) offers free in-services for healthcare professionals and teams, educational materials such as the Optimal Care Pathway – Quick Reference Guide and HCP booklet, and online education modules. Click here to access and download these educational resources and module information.
NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia (NECA) offers face-to-face support groups across Australia, a national online group for those in rural and remote areas, private Facebook groups for connecting with the NET community and telehealth specialist support, including access to a neuroendocrine cancer nurse, counsellor, and dietitian. Learn more
Neuroendocrine cancer develops from neuroendocrine cells when they undergo changes, causing them to divide uncontrollably, growing into a mass called a tumour. These neuroendocrine cells create, store and secrete a variety of hormones for normal bodily function.
To learn more, watch our explainer video - What is the Neuroendocrine System and how do Neuroendocrine Tumours develop?
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Contact a Neuroendocrine Cancer Nurse, Dietitian, or Counsellor
We offer free, confidential information and specialist support services via our Neuroendocrine Cancer Nurse email and telephone line. Through this service, you can also schedule an appointment to receive support from our dietitian and counsellor.
