Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on UK medical school widening access schemes: disruption, support and a virtual student led initiative.

Background: COVID-19 has disrupted medical education in the United Kingdom (UK). The pandemic may result in a long-term disproportionate negative impact to students applying to Medical School from a low-socioeconomic background. In addition, the upsurge in Medical School applications increases the likelihood of stricter University entry criteria over the coming years.

The prevalence and natural history of normocalcaemic hypoparathyroidism in a United Kingdom referral population.

Context: Normocalcaemic hypoparathyroidism (NHYPO) is characterized by low levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) with normal levels of calcium. There is little in the current literature on this disease, with only two studies published on its prevalence, while its natural history remains relatively unknown.

Objectives: To identify the prevalence of NHYPO in a UK referral population and to study the natural history of the disorder.