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Hyperparathyroidism is a condition causing high blood-calcium levels that afflicts about 100,000 Americans each year. It is caused by the overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH) by one or more of the four parathyroid glands located in the neck. This chronic condition may result in kidney stones, osteoporosis, abdominal problems, fatigue, and depression, among other illnesses. It can successfully be treated by removing the abnormal parathyroid gland(s).