Winter School on Rare Endocrine Diseases Unites Europe’s Top Specialists in Varna

On Rare Disease Day (29 February), Medical University – Varna officially launched the first Winter School on Rare Endocrine Diseases, gathering prominent specialists and researchers from across Europe in the sea capital of Varna. The event was held from 28 February to 3 March 2026 and was organised by Medical University – Varna. The initiative received approval from the European Reference Network on Rare Endocrine Conditions (Endo-ERN), of which UMHAT “St. Marina" – Varna is a member institution. The majority of the lecturers participating in the scientific programme are internationally recognised experts who have made significant contributions to the diagnosis and management of rare diseases in Europe. Young physicians from more than ten countries participated in the programme as trainees. ​ It is estimated that more than 30 million people in Europe are affected by rare diseases, and the European Reference Network on Rare Endocrine Conditions (Endo-ERN) aims to improve access to high-quality healthcare for patients with rare endocrine disorders. The scientific programme focused on the presentation and discussion of recent advances in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of several rare endocrine disorders, including non-diabetic hypoglycaemia, lipodystrophy, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, Klinefelter syndrome, adrenal insufficiency, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Silver–Russell syndrome, Temple syndrome, Cushing's syndrome, acromegaly, non-functioning pituitary adenoma, and prolactinoma.