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Discussing life expectancy and survival rates in relation to neuroendocrine cancer is sensitive and very individual. What matters most is that you receive the best possible care and treatment available.
As such, the information contained on this page is only for general discussion. If you would like to discuss these topics in relation to your condition, it’s best to do so with your health care team and family.
NETs are a diverse group of tumours, and their prognosis can differ significantly based on a number of variables. The life expectancy for individuals with neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) can vary depending on several factors, including:
One of several ways to look at the life expectancy for someone living with neuroendocrine cancer is to examine it by grade.
The location of the tumour and whether it has spread to other parts of the body (metastasis) play a significant role in life expectancy. Tumours that have metastasised to critical organs, such as the liver or lungs, can be more challenging to treat and may have a poorer prognosis.
The effectiveness of treatment in controlling the tumour’s growth and spread is a key determinant of life expectancy. Some respond well to treatment and experience prolonged periods of control, while others may face challenges in managing the disease.
Overall health and well-being also impact life expectancy. Patients with underlying health conditions or other medical issues may have different outcomes compared to those who are in good health.
Treatment for NETs should involve a multidisciplinary approach, with specialists from various fields collaborating to design the most effective treatment plan. This can include surgery, targeted therapies, chemotherapy, and other interventions.
Access to healthcare services, including specialised cancer centres and experienced oncologists, can significantly affect a patient’s chances of survival. Patients in urban areas or regions with comprehensive cancer care facilities may have better access to comprehensive treatments.
Ongoing research and advancements in treatment options for NETs are improving outcomes for patients. Newer therapies and approaches are being developed to better manage these tumours. These can be accessed through clinical trials, which may be an option for you.
Participation in clinical trials can provide access to innovative treatments that may not be available through standard care. Neuroendocrine cancer patients who enrol in well-designed clinical trials may have better survival outcomes.
It’s important to consider not only life expectancy but also the quality of life. Some patients with NETs can experience a better quality of life even if the disease is not curable. For some patients, maintaining a good quality of life is a primary goal, even if it means opting for less aggressive treatments with lower survival rates.
Goals of care vary from person to person. Some people may prioritise extending their life as much as possible, even if it means enduring intensive treatments. Others may focus on palliative care and improving their quality of life.
Shared decision-making between NET patients, their families, and healthcare providers is crucial in determining the most appropriate treatment approach based on individual goals, values, and preferences.
Survival rates for neuroendocrine cancer vary from person to person, and can change over the course of the condition. The discussion below is only general in nature. If you’ve been diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer, it’s best to contact your medical teams to discuss survival rates.
At this stage, the tumour is small and localised, meaning it has yet to spread beyond its original site. The tumour is typically confined to the organ where it originated. The survival rate for this stage is often high.
Here’s what you need to know:
In stage 2, the tumour may still be relatively small, but it has spread to nearby lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that play a crucial role in the immune system. Despite this, many individuals can still achieve favourable outcomes with appropriate treatment, and the survival rate is still high.
The life expectancy for stage 2 neuroendocrine cancer varies based on tumour characteristics and the situation of the patient.
At this stage, the tumour has grown larger and may have extended into nearby tissues and organs beyond the primary site. It might also involve multiple nearby lymph nodes.
Here’s what you need to know:
Stage 3, the cancer is larger and the tumour has spread to surrounding tissues and is in the lymph nodes .
The prognosis at this stage is usually less favourable compared to earlier stages. Life expectancy varies significantly based on tumour characteristics, response to treatment, and the patient’s overall health.
The life expectancy for stage 3 NETs varies significantly depending on various factors, including tumour type, stage, response to treatment, and overall health. Unfortunately, the prognosis at this stage is generally less favourable compared to earlier stages. However, the 5-year life expectancy for stage 3 neuroendocrine cancer is still around 86%.
Stage 4, is when the tumour has spread to distant sites, which is called the cancer has metastasised. Common areas of metastasis for NETs include the liver, lungs, bones, and other distant organs.
The prognosis at this stage is usually less favourable compared to earlier stages. Life expectancy varies significantly based on tumour characteristics, response to treatment, and the patient’s overall health.
The life expectancy for stage 4 NETs is dependent on various factors, including tumour type, stage, response to treatment, and overall health. Unfortunately, the prognosis at this stage is less favourable compared to earlier stages. The 5-year life expectancy for stage 4 neuroendocrine cancer is around 68%.
While treatment can help manage symptoms and slow the disease’s progression, achieving a cure becomes challenging. However, with the presence of palliative care and other treatments, some patients may experience long-term survival and improved quality of life.
Due to the complexity of factors that influence life expectancy in individuals with NETs, it’s essential for patients to work closely with their medical team. Together, they can work to develop a personalised treatment plan and to regularly monitor the progress of the disease.
Advances in medical care and treatment options continue to offer hope for improved outcomes and extended life expectancy for individuals with NETs. A diagnosis is the first step in treatment, and there are plenty of support options available to you and your family.
