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, adrenal glands, 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

Tour of Pembrokeshire – Epic 105 miler

24/05/2025

Commencing in the city of St David’s, this event will showcase some of the most remarkable aspects of Pembrokeshire, including its rugged coastline, serene country lanes, and the magnificent Preseli Hills.

Edinburgh Marathon 2025

25/05/2025

Join Team Pituitary at Edinburgh Marathon this year and raise essential funds to support those with pituitary conditions.

Sick Day Rules reminder for Addison’s Disease Day!

28/05/2025

Join us at one of our regular sick day rules reminder for adrenal crisis.

Four Falls Trek 2025

31/05/2025

Walk between 10 of the very best Brecon Beacons waterfalls (as well as caves), covering a total of 15km! It’s a route to remember and one of our most picturesque challenges!

Nottingham May Support Group Meeting

31/05/2025

Join us for the Nottingham support group meeting.

Hull and East Riding June support group meeting

07/06/2025

Friendly support for anyone affected by pituitary conditions in the Hull area.

More events

News and updates

Two women in a medical setting are holding hands and dancing

Why community matters for pituitary patients and their families

19th May 2025

Factors influencing self-management of adrenal crises in patients with adrenal insufficiency: A qualitative study

28th April 2025

A cartoon speakerphone on a teal background

We're pushing for action on the desmo nasal spray shortage

14th April 2025

More news and updates

A person wearing a lab coat and blue latex gloves is holding a set of test tubes

We’re pushing for action on the desmopressin nasal spray shortage.

In response to wide-spread concern from our community about the effects of the desmopressin nasal spray shortage, we reached out to the Secretary of State for Health and Care, Wes Streeting, to push for action on this issue.

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