Travel

There is no reason why GEP-NETs should stop you from travelling abroad. It is a good idea to visit your doctor prior to travelling, who can advise on self-administration of your medication or make arrangements for you to receive treatment while you are away.

Your doctor can also provide you with a letter about your GEP-NETs and medication, which is important to take with you. This will be essential if you become ill and need medical care while you are away, or when you need to explain what your medication is for when travelling through airports.

It’s also a good idea to make sure you are covered by appropriate travel insurance. Not all insurance companies will cover people with pre-existing conditions, including forms of cancer, so you might want to shop around and ask questions to make sure you’re covered properly. If you are unsure, speak to your doctor to check you understand how to explain your GEP-NETs to insurers.

Work and study

Having a GEP-NET doesn’t necessarily mean you have to give up your work or education.

Depending on how you are feeling, you may be able to carry on full-time, or you may need to adjust your working hours or work from home. If your GEP-NET doesn’t cause symptoms, you should be able to carry on with life as normal.

You don’t have to discuss your condition with your employer, but if you feel able to, it might be a good idea to let them know if you think your symptoms or treatment affect your work, or if you need to take time off to attend medical appointments. Some treatments for GEP-NETs can mean time off work, so it’s good to be upfront with your employer to manage time off when you need it.