(ARA) – Carcinoid syndrome – a group of symptoms resulting from active carcinoid tumors in the body – is a rare disease. The aim of a new virtual walkathon, iWalk for Carcinoid, is to increase awareness of carcinoid syndrome and to carcinoid-related organizations.
What is carcinoid syndrome?
Carcinoid syndrome refers to the set of symptoms that result from active carcinoid tumors releasing excess hormones into the body. Carcinoid syndrome can include a set of symptoms that range in severity. Some patients may experience all or just some of these symptoms. The most frequent signs and symptoms associated with carcinoid syndrome are diarrhea and flushing (when you turn red and feel warm). Diarrhea and flushing symptoms can occur at the same time, or one can be experienced without the other. However, while these symptoms are the two most common, there are other symptoms of carcinoid syndrome, including (but not limited to): abdominal pain, cramping, wheezing and arthritis. Some patients may experience all or just some of the symptoms of the disease.
Carcinoid tumors can occur in different parts of the body including the rectum, lungs, pancreas, colon and liver. However, two thirds of carcinoid tumors occur in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract includes the stomach, and the small and large intestines. Carcinoid tumors will often grow very slowly and can go undiagnosed for years. In fact, it can take anywhere from five to seven years before an accurate diagnosis is determined.
Approximately 2,500 new patients are diagnosed with carcinoid tumors in the United States every year, and this number is on the rise.
To be part of this countrywide online event where people raise awareness and support research for carcinoid syndrome, visit www.iwalkforcarcinoid.com.