Russell Watson Illness and Patient Information - Joint Statement from the Society for Endocrinology and The Pituitary Foundation

The Pituitary Foundation, the main UK support group for patients with pituitary disorders, has received a number of enquiries from the public following the news that the singer Russell Watson has been taken into hospital.

Professor Paul Stewart, speaking on behalf of the Society for Endocrinology and the Pituitary Foundation said: “We believe Russell Watson is being treated for a pituitary tumour. From what we understand it seems that the tumour has regrown. In these cases, you can occasionally get bleeding from the tumour into the brain, usually in stressful situations. Doctors are able to treat this condition successfully as long as patients are treated quickly. There is no reason for patients who have previously been treated for a pituitary tumour to be alarmed. If they feel unwell or start to suffer from symptoms such as blurred vision, I would advise them to seek medical help immediately. Our thoughts are with Russell and his family at this difficult time.”

If anyone has any concerns, please contact the Pituitary Foundation helpline on 0845 450 0375 or email [email protected]. The pituitary is a pea-sized gland, weighing one gram or less, which is found in the brain. It acts as a master gland, producing many hormones that are involved in the body’s regulation of metabolism, coping with daily stress, and general wellbeing amongst other areas.

The Pituitary Foundation