Pituitary disorders are considered rare diseases and they present in non-specific ways. Pituitary disorders can masquerade themselves as headaches, osteoporosis, sexual dysfunction, mental illness, infertility, or growth disorders. In addition, they can take several years to manifest. Family doctors and specialists in many disciplines need to be aware of the signs and symptoms suggestive of a pituitary adenoma. With little exposure to symptoms, signs, co-morbidities or the adequate use of diagnostic tests, a patient can often be misdiagnosed. This leads to delayed interventions results in a decreased quality of life. Obviously, patients need to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible to prevent complications.

The goal of the Alberta Pituitary Patient Society (APPS) is to improve awareness of pituitary disorders among health-care practitioners and the public.  Awareness is the first step in helping physicians, nurses, pharmacists, scientists, and researchers better advocate for their patients and stakeholders. 

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, 60% of adults and 88% of seniors are not health literate. This means they cannot confidently and knowledgeably access, understand, evaluate, and communicate information related to their health. The APPS will participate in initiatives whose purpose is to address health literacy.

As a member of the APPS, you can help us optimize these efforts.  You can also choose to

• be involved in any way that meets your circumstances, interests, and needs
• receive alerts about pituitary related events
• participate in pituitary patient events
• connect with pituitary patients and caregivers

Join Us