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Lori Bulpett, Manager of Patient Advocacy at Chiesi Global Rare Diseases, discusses mental health in patients with acromegaly.

Acromegaly is a hormonal disorder that results from the overproduction of growth hormone in the pituitary gland. It is most often diagnosed in middle-aged adults, although symptoms can appear at any age. Signs and symptoms include abnormal growth and swelling of the hands and feet; bone changes that; alter various facial features; arthritis; carpal tunnel syndrome; enlargement of body organs; and various other symptoms. The condition is usually caused by benign tumors on the pituitary. Rarely, it is caused by tumors of the pancreas, lungs, and other parts of the brain.

Patients with acromegaly commonly experience chronic stress, anxiety, sleep issues, depression, and cognitive fatigue. These symptoms and mental health issues have a significant impact on a patient's personal and working relationships, as well as their self esteem.

A recent survey of patients with acromegaly examined mental health support, with 91% of respondents agreeing that addressing mental health is just as important as addressing physical health. However, 55% of these patients were not actively receiving mental health support. The main barrier to this was feeling a provider could not be found that would understand the struggles of living with acromegaly.

Ms. Bulpett explains how the results of this survey highlight an opportunity for specialized training and education to better suit mental health professionals to patients with acromegaly. She also notes the importance of providers having proactive discussions about mental health with their patients and creating an easy referral pathway for mental health support.

Chapters:
Introduction 00:00
Acromegaly Overview 00:19
Poster Overview 1:34
Patient Advocacy 3:29