HPTH (UK) seeks support from caring sponsors for its work in raising awareness of Hypoparathyroidism

HPTH UK is the only UK charity providing advice, information and support to people affected by Hypoparathyroidism, a rare and life threatening endocrine condition.

"Hypoparathyroidism (HPTH) can affect all ages. There are several forms - people may be born with it or it may be acquired later in life but, most commonly, it is caused by surgery to the neck. This latter group go into hospital with one condition and come out with another!

"All forms of HPTH cause a lack of parathyroid hormone which leads to low calcium levels in the blood. Calcium is vital to life and the levels can often be very unstable, causing hypos.

"Unlike diabetics, and despite very similar difficulties, HPTH patients have neither replacement hormone therapy nor home testers available to help them manage their levels. The condition is not well known and is poorly understood by doctors.

"However, thanks to contributions from people like you, and the work we have been doing to raise awareness, understanding of HPTH is steadily improving and the new parathyroid hormone trial offers real hope for the future, though we have a long way to go yet.

"HPTH UK has worked entirely voluntarily since 2005 to raise awareness about this condition among the medical profession and to provide support and information to patients through our website, online forums, telephone helpline and our expert team of consultant endocrinologists around the UK.

"We keep going through donations and fundraising, so any support you can offer will be hugely appreciated - thank you!"

Contact: Liz Glenister

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