Healthcare officials raise awareness about rare endocrine disorder
Imagine living with unexplained changes and health issues for nearly a decade, only to discover it’s a rare disease that was, until recently, very difficult to treat and can affect nearly every aspect of your life.
Acromegaly is a rare endocrine disorder, most often caused by a benign pituitary tumor. It leads to the overproduction of growth hormone, which causes progressive changes in appearance, metabolic disturbances, and systemic health complications.
Each year in November, the global health community recognizes a rare endocrine disease called acromegaly.
The goal is to educate the public and medical professionals about acromegaly’s signs and symptoms, promote timely diagnosis so treatment can begin, and offer support for those living with the condition.
“Example, if some has sleep apnea, carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetes, hypertension, that alone is a good reason for health care provider to check a screening blood test, and all it takes is a single screening blood test to confirm whether or not this disease may be present,” said Dr. Alan Krasner, chief endocrinologist at Crinetics Pharmaceuticals.
Untreated, the condition can significantly reduce life expectancy. When diagnosed early and treated appropriately, symptoms may improve or even resolve, and life expectancy may return to normal.
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