Inside IGF-1
What IGF-1 means and why it matters
Acromegaly is caused by too much insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and growth hormone in the body. High levels of these hormones can cause body parts to grow too much, along with other serious health problems.
What does IGF-1 do?
IGF-1 is not just about growth—it plays a role in many body functions, including:
- Cell growth and repair
- Blood sugar control
- Metabolism
Why does IGF-1 matter?
IGF-1 tests are used by your doctor to determine if your acromegaly treatment is working. A high IGF-1 level means that you have too much growth hormone, which can lead to complications. Keeping your IGF-1 level in check is key to achieving biochemical control.
How do I know if my IGF-1 level is normal?
Normal ranges for IGF-1 levels can differ from person to person. First, they depend on your age and sex. Second, there’s no one-size-fits-all “normal” for IGF-1 levels because labs use different tests. Each test has its own way of measuring and defining a normal IGF-1 level range.
Are all IGF-1 tests the same?
IGF-1 tests are a valuable tool, but they aren’t perfect. Not all IGF-1 tests give the same results. Some tests may say that your level is normal, while others may say that it’s too high. That’s why your results should always be checked against the specific normal range of the test you received.
Controlling acromegaly means looking at more than just lab tests
Even if your IGF-1 level looks “normal,” you might still deal with acromegaly symptoms that impact your overall quality of life. This could mean your acromegaly isn’t fully controlled.
So…what does this mean for you?
Your treatment approach should look at both biochemical control and symptom control, so you can feel your best.
Take charge of your acromegaly
Step 1
Understand your IGF-1 level
Step 2
Track your symptoms
Step 3
Talk to your doctor if you still feel unwell
IGF-1 calculator
Are you having trouble making sense of your IGF-1 number? The IGF-1 calculator is a simple yet valuable tool designed to provide a more complete picture of your IGF-1.
Get an acromegaly reality check
Answer a few quick questions to find out how well your acromegaly is managed.
1 of 3
Which of the following best describes your current IGF-1 level?
2 of 3
How intense have your acromegaly symptoms felt over the past month?
Drag the sliders to best describe the intensity of each symptom.
3 of 3
What are the top challenges you face living with acromegaly?
Select all that apply.
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Ellen, living with acromegaly.
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See your results below and find out what they might mean for your acromegaly and your treatment plan.
IGF-1 and symptom intensity
IGF-1 status
Symptom intensity
The takeaway: IGF-1 levels and symptom intensity
Quality-of-life challenges
The takeaway
Access the Acromegaly Reality Tool Kit for more insights
Inside the Acromegaly Reality Tool Kit, you’ll find:
- Real stories from people living with acromegaly
- Helpful tools like the IGF-1 calculator and doctor finder
- Lifestyle tips and discussion guides to help you advocate for yourself
Wendy, living with acromegaly.
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