What is World Hypoparathyroidism Awareness Day?

World Hypoparathyroidism Awareness Day is observed every year on June 1. The day shines a light on hypoparathyroidism (hypopara), a rare endocrine condition that affects calcium regulation in the body. It brings together patients, families, researchers, and doctors to spread knowledge and advocate for better treatments.

Hypopara occurs when the parathyroid glands produce too little parathyroid hormone. This disrupts the balance of calcium and phosphorus, often leading to serious health problems like muscle cramps, kidney damage, and fatigue. The day is a call to support those living with this invisible and often misunderstood condition.

History and Origin

World Hypoparathyroidism Awareness Day was launched by Parathyroid UK, an organisation that supports people with parathyroid disorders. The goal was simple: create space for visibility, education, and connection. People with hypopara often feel isolated, and awareness can help build understanding and improve care.

Since its founding, the day has grown. Organisations like the European Society of Endocrinology and Hypoparathyroidism Association have joined in. Each year brings a theme. In 2024, the focus was on kidney health, highlighting the serious long-term risks faced by patients with chronic low calcium and high phosphate levels.

Events, social media campaigns, and patient stories are all part of the day’s efforts to make hypopara better understood by the public and the medical world.

Who Participates in World Hypoparathyroidism Awareness Day?

• People living with hypopara: Share stories and raise awareness about the daily impact of the condition.
• Families and carers: Provide support and join campaigns to advocate for better care.
• Endocrinologists and nurses: Use the day to promote best practices in diagnosis and treatment.
• Patient organisations: Host webinars, support groups, and awareness campaigns.
• Health educators: Create resources to help the public understand what hypopara is and why it matters.

Slogans and Themes

Themes focus on education, community, and care. Slogans include “Understanding Hypopara,” “Balance Matters,” and “Raise Your Voice for Rare.” In 2024, the theme was kidney health, drawing attention to a major long-term risk in managing the condition.

The message is clear: awareness can lead to better treatment, faster diagnosis, and fewer complications.

Colors symbols and patterns

Colors

• Teal: Often used in endocrine health campaigns, symbolising clarity and awareness.
• Light blue: Represents health and communication.
• Green: Chosen in 2024 to reflect the theme of kidney health and renewal.

Symbols

• Parathyroid glands: Often shown in simplified anatomy diagrams.
• Kidney icons: Highlight risks of calcium imbalance in long-term hypopara.
• Calcium molecules: Used in scientific and educational materials.

Patterns

• Medical grids: Reflect the structured, clinical nature of rare disease care.
• Flow lines: Represent calcium and phosphate balance in the body.
• Abstract shapes: Used to show complexity and invisible symptoms.

Most Used Hashtags

• #WorldHypoparaDay
• #HypoparaAwareness
• #KnowHypopara
• #KidneyHealth
• #RareButReal

How to Celebrate World Hypoparathyroidism Awareness Day:

• Learn about hypopara: Read up on the symptoms and challenges people face.
• Share stories: Post personal experiences to raise awareness and break stigma.
• Join online events: Attend webinars or Q&As hosted by advocacy groups.
• Support a patient group: Donate or share links to trusted organisations.
• Talk to your doctor: If you or someone you know has low calcium issues, ask about hypopara.

Why is World Hypoparathyroidism Awareness Day Important?

Hypopara is rare, but its effects are serious. People with this condition may face years of misdiagnosis or under-treatment. By spreading awareness, we help change that.

This day gives patients a voice and puts their needs on the global health agenda. It helps educate medical professionals, drive research, and connect people who often feel alone in their struggle.