The world lost a musical icon and the ‘Queen of Soul,’ Aretha Franklin, on August 16, 2018. Her passing marked the end of an era in music history, leaving behind a legacy of hits that spanned genres and generations, and will continue to stand the test of time.
Aretha Franklin’s death also cast a spotlight on a deadly disease and form of cancer. Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours (NETs), the same condition that led to the demise of Steve Jobs, represent a small subset of cancers and conditions that affect the pancreas.
How did Aretha Franklin die? Understanding the cause
Aretha Franklin died from a neuroendocrine tumour located in her pancreas (called a pNET), a rare condition that is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. Neuroendocrine tumours are a heterogeneous group of malignancies that originate from the neuroendocrine cells present throughout the body.
These neuroendocrine cells produce hormones that regulate various bodily functions, making NETs particularly complex and challenging to treat effectively.
When was Aretha Franklin diagnosed with a pNET?
Aretha Franklin was diagnosed with a neuroendocrine tumour (NET) of the pancreas, specifically a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour, before her death in August 2018. The exact date of her diagnosis has not been publicly disclosed.
Taking a closer look at Aretha Franklin’s cause of death
The cause of Aretha Franklin’s death was officially attributed to the advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (pNET) she had been battling for some time. This form of cancer is less common than pancreatic adenocarcinoma but can be just as deadly if not diagnosed and treated early.
Franklin’s battle with the disease highlights the silent nature of NETs, as they often present with few, if any, symptoms until they have progressed to an advanced stage.
Aretha Franklin’s death date and its lasting impact
Aretha Franklin passed away on August 16, 2018, a date that will forever be remembered not only as the loss of a legendary singer but also as a moment that brought attention to the fight against neuroendocrine tumours. Her death has led to increased discussions about NETs and the importance of research and funding to combat this elusive type of cancer.
The legacy of Aretha Franklin’s death: awareness and advocacy
While Aretha Franklin is remembered for her powerful voice and indelible contribution to music, her passing has also served as a catalyst for raising awareness about neuroendocrine tumours. Since her death, there has been a noticeable increase in public interest and advocacy for better understanding, diagnosing, and treating NETs. This has led to greater awareness among the general public and medical community, potentially improving outcomes for other individuals diagnosed with this challenging disease.
Remembering Aretha Franklin and her battle with NETs
Aretha Franklin’s death from a neuroendocrine tumour underscores the reality that cancer knows no boundaries and can affect individuals regardless of their fame, talent, or accomplishments. Her battle with this rare form of cancer serves as a reminder of the importance of medical research and the ongoing need for awareness and education about NETs.
As we continue to celebrate Aretha Franklin’s musical legacy, we also honour her memory by advocating for advancements in the understanding and treatment of neuroendocrine tumours, aiming for a future where others may not have to face the same silent threat.
