November is Lung, Pancreatic, Stomach and Carcinoid / Neuroendocrine Tumor Cancer Awareness Month
In the United States, November is a meaningful month for cancer awareness. It focuses on four major cancer types that deeply impact individuals and families: lung, pancreatic, stomach (gastric), and carcinoid/neuroendocrine (NET) cancers.
For patients and caregivers, these awareness campaigns offer an opportunity to reflect, learn, and advocate for early detection and improved treatment options. Each awareness effort underscores the power of knowledge, compassion, and community in the cancer journey.
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Ribbon Color: White
The Importance of Awareness
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. However, growing awareness and access to screening are helping detect it earlier and save lives. Understanding risk factors — such as smoking, exposure to radon or asbestos, and family history — is essential for prevention.
How Caregivers Can Help:
Encourage regular lung screenings (low-dose CT scans) for those at high risk.
Support healthy lifestyle changes and smoke-free environments.
Provide emotional and practical help to manage fatigue and shortness of breath.
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
Ribbon Color: Purple
The Importance of Awareness
Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed late because symptoms can be vague or attributed to other causes. Awareness helps people recognize early warning signs such as jaundice, back or abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss — symptoms that warrant medical attention.
Caregiver Tips:
Offer balanced, easy-to-digest meals to support nutrition.
Help manage fatigue and treatment side effects.
Encourage emotional openness and be present through moments of uncertainty.
Stomach (Gastric) Cancer Awareness Month
Ribbon Color: Periwinkle
The Importance of Awareness
Stomach cancer often develops silently, with symptoms like indigestion, heartburn, or bloating that may be overlooked. Raising awareness encourages earlier diagnosis, particularly for individuals with a family history of gastric cancer or Helicobacter pylori infection.
Caregiver Tips:
Keep a record of symptoms and discuss changes with healthcare providers.
Support gentle eating habits and nutrient-dense foods.
Offer encouragement and reassurance during treatment and recovery.
Carcinoid and Neuroendocrine Tumor (NET) Awareness Month
Ribbon Color: Zebra Stripe (Black and White)
The Importance of Awareness
Carcinoid and other neuroendocrine tumors are rare and often misdiagnosed because their symptoms resemble more common conditions. Persistent symptoms like flushing, diarrhea, or abdominal pain should prompt further medical evaluation. Awareness leads to earlier recognition and specialized care, improving outcomes and quality of life.
Caregiver Tips:
Document symptoms thoroughly to share with healthcare professionals.
Advocate for specialized testing and referrals to NET experts.
Offer emotional stability and companionship throughout the diagnostic process.
Taking Action This November
November is a time to unite for education, advocacy, and hope. Patients, caregivers, and communities can participate in awareness walks, share personal stories, or support cancer organizations through volunteering or donations. Every voice raised helps strengthen awareness and drive research progress.
A Month of Reflection and Hope
For those touched by cancer, November represents resilience, understanding, and shared strength. Awareness is not just about ribbons — it’s about action, empathy, and empowering each other to face cancer with courage. Together, patients, caregivers, and advocates make a lasting difference.
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This blog was reviewed by Dr. Sourabh Kharait.
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, hydration strategies, or diet. The information provided here is based on general insights and may not apply to individual circumstances.
