The later stages of acromegaly often produce enlarged hands and feet, protruding brows and lower jaws, a thick voice and slowed speech from swelling of vocal cords.

When diagnosed, the tumour and entire pituitary gland are usually removed, followed by hormone therapy for the rest of the patient's life.

However, because the progression of the disease is so gradual, it is difficult to detect. If left unchecked, patients can die from complications such as heart or kidney failure.

Well-known acromegalics include wrestler-actor Andre the Giant and motivational speaker Tony Robbins.

The prevalence of acromegaly is approximately 4,676 cases per million, and the incidence is approximately 117 new cases per million every year.