This issue covers what endocrinologists need to know about growth hormone (GH) measurements, its metabolic effects, the value of IGF system markers in assessment of GH status, factors regulating GH action and secretion, genetics and management of GH deficiency, quality of life in GH deficiency and acromegaly, the role of GH receptor in growth, GH and protein metabolism, and GH therapy of non-growth hormone deficient short stature. Authors also examine the crucial topic of GH and cancer.