Experts Highlight Cushing's Syndrome During Adrenal Awareness Month

Cushing's syndrome, a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, is often overlooked and misdiagnosed.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 6:06pm

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray image showing the detailed anatomy of an adrenal gland, with its complex internal structures glowing against a dark background.An X-ray view of the adrenal gland, the hidden endocrine organ at the center of Cushing's syndrome, reveals its intricate internal structure.Today in Tampa

April marks Adrenal Awareness Month, and experts are highlighting Cushing's syndrome - a serious and often overlooked condition caused by prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels. Many patients with Cushing's experience symptoms that mimic more common conditions, leading to delayed or missed diagnosis. Dr. Tobias Carling of the Carling Adrenal Center and the Hospital for Endocrine Surgery in Tampa, Florida, are working to raise awareness and improve early detection of this treatable condition.

Why it matters

Cushing's syndrome is one of the most commonly missed adrenal conditions because its symptoms resemble many other disorders. When left untreated, Cushing's can contribute to serious health complications including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, weakened immunity, and decreased quality of life. Early detection and proper treatment are crucial for managing this condition.

The details

Cushing's syndrome is most often caused by tumors of the adrenal or pituitary glands that lead to excessive cortisol production. It is estimated that diagnosis can be delayed for years due to symptom overlap with more common conditions such as rapid weight gain, fatigue, high blood pressure, anxiety, and muscle weakness. The Hospital for Endocrine Surgery, located in Tampa, Florida, is the world's first hospital dedicated exclusively to the surgical treatment of endocrine diseases, including thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal conditions.

  • April marks Adrenal Awareness Month, a national initiative focused on hormonal disorders.
  • The Hospital for Endocrine Surgery was founded in 2020.

The players

Dr. Tobias Carling

A global leader in adrenal gland surgery and the founder of the Carling Adrenal Center, an international destination for the surgical treatment of adrenal tumors.

Hospital for Endocrine Surgery

The world's first hospital dedicated exclusively to the surgical treatment of endocrine diseases, including thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal conditions.

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What they’re saying

“Cushing's syndrome is one of the most commonly missed adrenal conditions because its symptoms resemble many other disorders.”

— Tobias Carling, MD, PhD, FACS

“It is our hope to amplify the voices of those who have experienced Cushing's syndrome firsthand. By sharing these stories, we can help others recognize symptoms earlier, seek appropriate care, and ultimately improve outcomes for patients worldwide.”

— Tobias Carling, MD, PhD, FACS

What’s next

Individuals experiencing persistent symptoms - particularly unexplained weight gain, high blood pressure, or ongoing fatigue - should speak with their physician about further evaluation for potential hormonal causes. Diagnostic testing options, including specialized adrenal hormone panels, are available through providers such as Any Lab Test Now.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of raising awareness and improving early detection of Cushing's syndrome, a serious but treatable hormonal disorder that is often overlooked due to its similarity to more common conditions. By sharing patient stories and promoting access to specialized diagnostic testing, healthcare providers can help ensure timely diagnosis and management of this condition.