Supporting everyone in the pituitary community, every step of the way.

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The Basics

New to pituitary or not sure where to start? We'll explain what the pituitary gland is and take you through the first things you need to know.

What is the Pituitary Gland?

The pituitary gland secretes hormones which carry messages around the body via the bloodstream. It controls several hormone glands in the body, including the thyroid, adrenals, ovaries and testes, so is often described as the master gland.

Emergency Info for AI and AVP-D (DI)

In case of emergency you should call 999. This page outlines the sick day rules and other emergency information for both Adrenal Insufficiency and AVP Deficiency (Diabetes Insipidus).

Causes of Pituitary Conditions

There are a range of causes for pituitary conditions, the most common being a non-cancerous tumour. Other causes include traumatic brain injury.

What are Hormones?

Hormones are chemicals which circulate in the blood stream and spread around the body to carry messages or signals to different parts of the body.

Major Endocrine Glands and Other Organs

There are a number of endocrine glands across the body which work together to secrete hormones. There are also several organs that contain endocrine tissue.

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Our Impact

Our vision is that all people with pituitary conditions live well, now and in the future. We work with everyone with a pituitary condition, their support networks and healthcare professionals to raise pituitary awareness and reduce time to diagnosis.

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Our Story Become a Member

Your Stories

Nadine’s story: Living with a physical disability and Cushing’s disease

Steven’ story: A Cushing’s diagnosis after unexplained weight gain

Serena’s story: Surgery for prolactinoma

Living With a Pituitary Condition Tell your story

Join an event

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Welcome to The Pituitary Foundation – September

11/09/2024

Join us at one of our bi-monthly Welcome Events to get to know us and learn a bit more about the work we do and the support we offer to the pituitary community.

Edinburgh Kiltwalk 2024

15/09/2024

Join Team Pituitary and take on the Edinburgh Kiltwalk 2024!

Celebrating our Pituitary Heroes

19/09/2024

Join us as we celebrate our Pituitary Heroes, as part of our 30th year celebration!

Oxford September Support Group Meeting

20/09/2024

An opportunity to connect with others in the Oxford area affected by a pituitary condition.

Taunton/Yeovil September Support Group Meeting

24/09/2024

Join us for our support group meeting in Taunton/Yeovil.

Cushing’s September Support Group Meeting

26/09/2024

The Cushing's support group are hosting an online meeting, held on Zoom.

More events

News and updates

Research Opportunity: UK Acromegaly Registry

14th August 2024

Research study: Young people with adrenal insufficiency

12th August 2024

Paid Research Opportunity: Growth Hormone Deficiency in children aged 12-17

30th July 2024

More news and updates

Think Pituitary was our 2021 campaign which sought improved and ongoing training for health care professionals who care for pituitary patients.

It is vital that people with conditions like adrenal insufficiency and diabetes insipidus feel safe going into hospital and able to trust they will receive the necessary treatment.

Find out more