Exercise and NETs: A boost for the body and mind

What is a neuroendocrine tumour (NET)?

Definition and types of NETs

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) develop from specialised cells called neuroendocrine cells, found in many organs throughout the body. These cells produce hormones that regulate various physiological functions.

NETs can appear in the digestive tract, pancreas, lungs, or, more rarely, other organs. Depending on their location, they are referred to as gastrointestinal, pancreatic, or pulmonary NETs. They usually progress slowly, though their behaviour can be unpredictable, which makes diagnosis and follow-up particularly complex.

Symptoms and progression

The symptoms of NETs vary depending on the tumour’s location and whether it secretes hormones. Some people experience digestive issues, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. Others may suffer from flushing, diarrhoea, or hormonal imbalances linked to carcinoid syndrome.

Fatigue is among the most common symptoms and can persist even during treatment. Because NETs often have a chronic course, long-term and multidisciplinary care is essential.

Treatments and medical management

Treatment for NETs combines several approaches. Surgery remains the preferred option, when possible, to remove the tumour. In more advanced or metastatic forms, medical treatments such as somatostatin analogues, targeted therapies, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), or chemotherapy may be used.

The goal is often to stabilise the disease, control hormonal symptoms, and improve quality of life. In this context, adapted physical activity plays a valuable complementary role, supporting both the body and emotional well-being throughout the care journey.

Why is adapted physical activity beneficial in cancer care?

Effects of physical activity on the body and mind

Adapted physical activity (supervised by qualified professionals) acts on both the body and the mind. For people living with cancer, it helps to reduce fatigue, improve muscle strength and lung capacity, and decrease pain caused by inactivity or treatment side effects.

Psychologically, it promotes relaxation, better sleep, and self-esteem, while reducing anxiety and depression commonly experienced during cancer treatment. Far from being a constraint, exercise becomes a moment of relief and reconnection, a way to experience the body differently from illness.

The role of adapted physical activity in supportive care

Adapted physical activity is now fully recognised as part of supportive care in oncology, alongside physiotherapy, nutrition, and psychological support. It is increasingly recommended early, sometimes from diagnosis, to help prevent physical deconditioning and improve tolerance to treatments.

As a complement to medical care, it contributes to a more holistic and humane approach to patient well-being.

Official recommendations for people living with cancer

Health authorities, such as the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), encourage regular, adapted physical activity for people with cancer. Patients can be referred through NHS Exercise Referral Schemes or local Macmillan Move More programmes.

All these programmes are supervised by trained professionals in cancer-specific exercise, ensuring safety and adaptation to each person’s condition.

Physical activity and neuroendocrine tumours: specific benefits

For people with NETs, adapted physical activity offers several unique advantages. It helps manage chronic fatigue, improves overall quality of life, and rebuilds self-confidence, often shaken by illness.

By stimulating blood circulation and metabolism, it can also help prevent certain metabolic complications such as diabetes or treatment-related weight gain.

On a psychological level, movement stimulates the release of endorphins, creating a calming effect that helps patients cope with uncertainty and waiting periods. For many, exercise becomes a way to regain control over their bodies and identities beyond the illness.

An increasing number of clinical studies confirm these benefits, particularly improvements in fatigue and overall quality of life in people living with rare cancers such as NETs.

Which activities are suitable for people with NETs?

Not every form of exercise is appropriate for everyone, adaptation is essential. So-called “gentle” activities such as walking, yoga, swimming, Pilates, or tai chi are typically recommended because they combine breathing, posture, and relaxation. They strengthen the body without excessive strain.

Before resuming physical activity, a medical consultation is crucial to assess general condition, current treatments, and possible contraindications.

Supervision by a qualified exercise professional, such as a physiotherapist or exercise specialist with Level 4 Cancer Rehab qualification, ensures a safe, gradual approach. Intensity should always match current energy levels, taking into account fatigue, treatment side effects, and pain. The goal is not performance, but regularity and the pleasure of moving.

Where to find the right support?

In the UK, many hospitals, charities, and local councils offer cancer exercise programmes.

• NHS Exercise Referral Schemes and Macmillan Cancer Support initiatives are available nationwide.
• Some community leisure centres provide group classes led by trained instructors.

Key takeaways

• Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are rare, complex cancers that require multidisciplinary care.
• Adapted physical activity (APA) is an effective form of supportive care that improves strength, mobility, fatigue, and emotional well-being.
• For people with NETs, APA helps reduce fatigue, prevent metabolic or cardiovascular complications, and support psychological health.
• Gentle exercises, such as walking, yoga, swimming, or Pilates, are generally recommended, under supervision suited to one’s health and treatment stage.
• NHS-supported programmes like Move More or local Exercise Referral Schemes provide safe and personalised guidance to help patients stay active and improve quality of life.

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