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This website is intended for an Australian and New Zealand audience who are interested in acromegaly

Richard talks about how acromegaly changed his working life

01:19

How has acromegaly affected your working life?

“I decided to go to university and change career. Having acromegaly has been the start of a new chapter in my life”

View Richard’s story >

This patient testimonial reflects only this person’s opinions about their own care. Each person’s case is unique. You should always consult a doctor for information and advice about the diagnosis and treatment of acromegaly.

Dave talks about how your work can be affected when you have Acromegaly.

00:48

Has this affected your ability to work?

“I cannot do the same job”

View Dave’s story >

This patient testimonial reflects only this person’s opinions about their own care. Each person’s case is unique. You should always consult a doctor for information and advice about the diagnosis and treatment of acromegaly.

Dave talks about where to buy clothes and shoes to fit.

00:50

Where do you go to buy clothes and shoes?

“Finding shoes, clothes to fit, generally the internet”

View Dave’s story >

This patient testimonial reflects only this person’s opinions about their own care. Each person’s case is unique. You should always consult a doctor for information and advice about the diagnosis and treatment of acromegaly.

Managing your time

Your ability and decision to continue to work or study will depend on your overall health and energy levels, as well as the support and flexibility of your employer or academic institution.

Deciding whether to continue or cut back on working or studying will also depend on how you feel during and after treatment.

Many people who want to continue working or studying are able to do so. Some people manage by adjusting their work or study hours for a while, perhaps working or studying part time, becoming self-employed, taking a sabbatical, or depending on their age and financial status, retire.

Do I have to tell my employer or teachers?

In many cases, you do not need to share all the details about your diagnosis and treatment with anyone.

You may only need to let them know about anything that may impact upon your ability to work or study, or that may cause a health and safety risk for yourself or others or if you may need more time to complete study assignments. Academic institutions can often offer extra time for people to complete their homework or exams if needed.

You could consider the following when determining whether to share information about your condition:

  • Will you be able to perform all of your job’s duties or need extra time for assignments?
  • Do you want other people in your work/study place to know?
  • Will you need to take time off from work/study for treatment or recovery, and when you are likely to return to work?
  • If you are taking any medications that may cause side effects that may affect your performance or safety at work/study
  • Will you need to adjust your work/study environment or working/studying hours

You may need to talk with your doctor or other member of your healthcare team before you can provide this information.

If you take paid leave because you are sick, your employer may require a medical document from your doctor confirming that you’re unwell.

For more information and advice about your employment rights, your local patient support group should also be able to help advise you on your rights at work.

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Living with acromegaly

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Practical tips and tools

Read practical tips to help make your life with acromegaly easier, including tips from others living with the condition

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Support groups

Find an acromegaly patient support group in your country to find out about local activities and events that you may be able to attend

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Learn about acromegaly

Learn about acromegaly including what causes this slowly evolving condition, and the early symptoms and signs

Learn about acromegaly

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Ipsen

Please always consult a healthcare professional if you require healthcare advice or if you have any specific concerns regarding your acromegaly, its treatment or side effects. The information provided here is not intended to replace professional advice. This website has been developed by Ipsen in collaboration with those living with acromegaly and the healthcare professionals who care for them. Ipsen would like to thank everyone for their valuable insights and stories. All names used on this website are not necessarily real names. Visit our website for more information about us, or to contact us directly. Website supported by Thrivase Pty Ltd.

SOM-AU-000711. Last reviewed: November 2023

Ipsen Pty Ltd. Level 5, 627 Chapel Street, South Yarra, VIC 3141, Australia. ABN 47 095 036 909.