Endocrine Abstracts

Parathyroid UK is a national patient organisation committed to improving the quality of life for everyone with parathyroid disorders. We provide information and support to empower our 5,000 members affected by a parathyroid condition to become active in the management of their condition. In Primary Hyperparathyroidism too much parathyroid hormone is produced by one or more enlarged or overactive parathyroid glands, causing hypercalcaemia. This impairs quality of life and increases the risk of osteoporosis, heart attacks, stroke and cancer. Surgery is the only effective treatment which can prevent complications and restore good health. The condition is the third commonest endocrine disorder in the UK, mostly diagnosed in women, particularly postmenopausal women, but can affect both men and women and all ages, including, less commonly, children. We work closely with our dedicated clinical advisors to help raise awareness to all health professionals about management challenges and the unmet needs that patients experience and we contribute to research and guidelines to ensure that the patient voice is heard. Communications Officer, Caroline Fryer, will detail the support offered by Parathyroid UK and explore the patient experience of primary hyperparathyroidism, both from her own perspective and drawing on the experiences of other support group members. She will cover common symptoms, the difficulties of getting appropriate testing and diagnosis, the pathway to surgery and post-surgery aftercare, all from a patient perspective. Caroline will also explain how Parathyroid UK works closely with its medical advisory team to raise awareness about this distressing illness, improve access to treatment and ensure the patient voice is heard. Importantly, she will explore how healthcare professionals can support patients on their long and onerous journey towards a cure and will give time for any questions that arise from the audience.