(eWebWire.com) June 22, 2010 — WORLD WIDE WEB, June 22, 2010 (FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE) — It’s a growing disorder that affects approximately 11,000 people a year. Often misdiagnosed, it takes most physicians an average of five years or more to correctly identify the disease. Increasing at a 5% rate each year, Carcinoid Cancer is a slow developing tumor that is often overlooked by the medical community.

Typically formed within the gastrointestinal tract, Carcinoid Cancer currently has less medical research available than other types of cancer. Often developed over the course of many years, common symptoms include diarrhea, flushing, wheezing, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and pain in the abdomen. Though initially hard to detect, simple blood and urine tests have proven to help in uncovering the disease. By measuring the amount of hormone levels and other substances present within the body, physicians are able to better determine the extent and potential spread of the disease. If diagnosed, studies show that surgery is the most effective form of treatment. However, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are recommended if the cancer has spread beyond the gastrointestinal tract.

For those diagnosed, the journey to recovery can feel a bit overwhelming. Nevertheless, Carcinoid Cancer is a fight that can be won. Most people, however, are unaware of its existence, but World Progress Report is looking to change this. Through their Public Television series, World Progress Report is hoping to highlight the medical treatments and support centers available to Carcinoid patients. “Unfortunately, because of its rarity, there is a current lack of medical information available to families of Carcinoid patients,” said the Executive Producer of the series, “That’s why we would like to work towards raising more awareness through our new series about this rare disease. Hopefully, people will be able to detect their symptoms early and get the treatment they need.”

About World Progress Report:

World Progress Report is a compelling series distributed to Public Television nationwide. Hosted by Joan Lunden, each program is specifically designed to educate the public on the latest issues impacting our society today. For more information, please contact us at (772) 237-8518 or visit us on the web at www.worldprogressreport.com.