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Don’t miss out on these must-try treats trending this holiday season

2021-12-21T11:37:00

(BPT) – The sights and sounds of the holiday season are a delight, but if there’s one of the five senses that really benefits this time of year, it has to be the sense of taste. From classic favorites to new taste sensations, the holidays are always about enjoying treats and gifting goodies to others.

Whether you’re looking for presents for loved ones near and far, stocking up on stocking stuffers for at home, or wanting inspiration for new flavors to try, consider these trending ideas and in-demand confections of the season:

Rich cookies featuring Belgian chocolate

Skip the standard cookie and give Santa and your family something decadent and delicious. Originating from the heart of Brussels in 1891, Delacre offers a selection of premium pastry cookie varieties, enhanced with authentic Belgian chocolate. Delacre cookies are packed in an elegant tin or box warmly designed for the holiday season, making them the perfect gift to share with family and friends. Get one for yourself and grab some extras so you can add a holiday card and gift to neighbors, teachers, coworkers and more to show you care.

Confections make a big impression

What if there was a new way to experience the flavors of your favorite confections? Made with the same expertise and high-quality ingredients as Ferrero Rocher, the Grand Ferrero Rocher is now available in dark chocolate. This elegantly wrapped, exquisite dark chocolate shell with hazelnut pieces is the perfect gift for any friend or family member. No need to choose between dark or milk chocolate because Grand Ferrero Rocher features both varieties!

Elevated chocolate decadence

The holidays call for indulgence and Golden Gallery Signature — Ferrero’s premium brand of exceptionally crafted assorted chocolate — is the perfect complement to any celebration. With high-quality ingredients like soft butter caramel, delicate hazelnuts and Arabica coffee beans, Golden Gallery Signature is the perfect gift for chocolate lovers and savvy hosts who want a captivating tasting experience. Consider creating a trendy chocolate board for dessert or grab a box for the ideal host gift.

Fun candies play up holiday magic

The holidays are full of joy, and some candies are just meant to be a fun part of the season. Are the people in your family on the nice or naughty list? Grab some seasonal Tic Tac flavors and get in on the fun. Tic Tac Naughty (Sinfully Cinnamon) and Nice (Jolly Candy Cane) flavors allow you to let friends and family know if they made the nice list or the naughty list. Both refreshingly delicious packs are perfect as stocking stuffers.

Favorite foods that give back

An attitude of gratitude defines the holiday season, and it’s an important time to count your blessings while also helping others in need. Fortunately, shopping for delicious foods can help you do just that. Everyone’s favorite breakfast spread, Nutella, is partnering with No Kid Hungry once again to give back this holiday season! Look out for specially marked jars in celebration of helping kids in need during this important season of giving.

New recipes with beloved flavors

Trying new recipes is a fun part of the holiday season, especially when it involves ingredients that everyone adores. Nutella partnered with viral chef Nick DiGiovanni to create a one-of-a-kind churro recipe that will have your friends and family asking for seconds.

Churros With Nutella

Ingredients:

1/2 vanilla bean
1/2 cup milk
6 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 eggs
Pastry bag and closed star tip
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon sugar
Nutella

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan combine 6 tablespoons cubed butter, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup milk, 1 tablespoon sugar, pinch of salt and vanilla paste.
2. Bring to a simmer until butter is melted.
3. Add 1 cup all-purpose flour, then stir vigorously and remove from heat.
4. Let cool for 5 minutes.
6. Now with a paddle attachment in a mixer, crack in three eggs, one at a time. Once this is well combined, add to pastry bag with a closed star tip.
7. Squeeze and cut 6-inch churros straight into 350 Fahrenheit oil, frying about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Dredge churros in cinnamon sugar, then fill with or dip in Nutella. Enjoy!

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7 ways to reduce your energy bill this winter

2021-12-21T08:01:00

(BPT) – Winter is upon us, and the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates the average household could pay up to 29% more for natural gas and 5.5% more for electricity this year. Not surprisingly, a recent survey showed that 43% of Americans are worried about these higher utility costs given the already growing price tag for food, gas and other goods.

The good news is there are several steps you can take to offset rising energy bills. If your utility offers a home energy report, that is a great place to start. These reports give a personalized view into how you are using energy, and ways to save. Many utilities also offer programs that save you money for avoiding energy use during peak times or will send you a high-bill alert message if your bill is trending higher.

By taking advantage of these programs not only can you save money this winter (and year-round), but they also have the bonus impact of reducing your carbon footprint. New research from The Brattle Group and Oracle Utilities Opower reveals that by 2040, people taking actions (even small ones), can reduce as much greenhouse emissions as retiring half the coal plants in the U.S.

From working with hundreds of utilities across the U.S. to help people save money, energy and reduce their impact on the environment, we collected a series of additional tips that have been proven to help reduce energy bills:

Weatherize your home

Many utilities offer free home energy audits to help prioritize your home upgrades. Better insulation and air sealing can save up to 15% on your energy costs. Alternatively, you can apply inexpensive weatherstripping, caulk, foam and even rolled-up towels to block air leaks around windows and doors to make a significant difference in your energy bill.

Use a smart thermostat

The typical household spends about half of its energy costs on heating and cooling. Simply setting back your smart thermostat 7-10°F for eight hours a day can save you up to 10% on your annual heating and cooling costs. For optimal savings, set a temperature schedule on your smart thermostat through a mobile app. Many utilities offer programs to purchase a smart thermostat at a reduced cost, so be sure to see if your energy provider offers this kind of deal.

Reduce ‘always-on’ energy use

Always-on use is energy consumed when appliances, electronics and other equipment are in standby, sleep mode or left fully on, but inactive. Since many American homes run more than 50 devices, always-on use can be around 20% of total household electricity use. Power strips that can be switched off at night help reduce this “phantom” load.

Lower your water heater’s temperature

On average, hot water accounts for about 18% of home energy use. You can save up to 22% of energy spent on water heating annually by lowering your water heater temperature. For most households, dialing the temperature back to 120°F is sufficient and safe. Washing laundry in cold water can also make an impact.

Install a heat pump

If you need a new heating system and air conditioner, consider installing a heat pump. They collect heat from the air, water or ground outside your home and concentrate it for use inside. Today’s heat pumps can reduce your electricity use for heating by approximately 50%. High-efficiency heat pumps also dehumidify better than central air conditioners, resulting in less energy usage and more cooling comfort in summer months.

Replace inefficient light bulbs with LEDs

On average, U.S. households use about 10% of their total electricity consumption for lighting. Incandescent bulbs can be replaced with light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs that use at least 75% less energy to produce the same amount of light. Although they cost more to buy, LED bulbs last 25 times longer and cost much less to keep on, saving a lot of money in the long run.

Upgrade to ENERGY STAR® appliances

ENERGY STAR certified products (based on U.S. Department of Energy testing) can save you up to 30% of your home energy costs. The ENERGY STAR label can be found on efficient models of many products. Certified models often run more quietly, last longer and are more convenient to use than conventional models.

To learn more about potential utility programs in your area, visit here or experience these energy- and cost-saving tips in action at the Smithsonian’s FUTURES exhibit now through July 6, 2022.

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Understanding Advanced Gastric Cancer

2021-12-21T13:01:00

(BPT) – Although gastric (stomach) cancer might be lesser known than other cancers, its impact should not be understated.[1] The disease, which typically occurs when cancer cells form in the lining of the stomach,[2] most commonly impacts men over the age of 50 and is estimated to affect more than 26,000 Americans in 2021 alone.[3] Globally, gastric cancer remains the fifth most common cancer with over one million cases of gastric cancer diagnosed each year around the world.[4]

Because gastric cancer often develops slowly and lacks symptoms in early stages, it is commonly diagnosed after it has metastasized (or spread to other parts of the body), resulting in a poor prognosis.[5] According to the American Cancer Society, only approximately 6% of patients with advanced-stage gastric cancer are alive five years after diagnosis.[6]

As with other forms of cancer, knowledge about gastric cancer is power. Here are three things to know about the disease:

1. Risk Factors Can Range

To understand the impact of gastric cancer, it’s important to first know the risk factors. Risk factors associated with the disease include being overweight or obese, having a diet high in preserved or processed foods, alcohol and tobacco use, and certain bacterial infections.[7] Additionally, a person’s gender, age, ethnicity, family history and genetics can play a role in raising his or her chances of developing gastric cancer.[2]

Being able to recognize the relatively wide range of gastric cancer risk factors may help inform lifestyle changes that can potentially prevent gastric cancer from forming and empower people to have proactive discussions with their care teams to increase the chances that the disease can be detected early.

2. Biomarkers Can Have Bearing on the Management of Gastric Cancer

It’s important to understand the unique characteristics of gastric cancer that may impact its growth and spread, including the presence of biomarkers. Biomarkers are substances made by a tumor or by the body in response to the presence of cancer.[8] Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a protein found on the surface of cells, is one such gastric cancer biomarker.[9] While many types of cells have HER2 receptors, having more receptors than normal can encourage the growth and spread of cancer.[10] It is estimated that about one in five cases of gastric cancer is HER2-positive, which is correlated with more aggressive disease.[11]

There are tests available that can help determine the presence of biomarkers like HER2 in gastric cancer. These tests are ordered by a physician and can help inform treatment plans for each individual patient’s specific cancer type.[12]

3. Options Exist

Treatment options for gastric cancer have historically included surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.[13] But in recent years, the prognosis has improved for some with biomarker-driven disease, including HER2-positive metastatic gastric cancer, thanks to ongoing clinical research that has brought about medicines that are specifically targeted to such biomarkers.[14]

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with gastric cancer, be sure to talk to your doctor about the options that may be best for you.

While gastric cancer remains devastating for many patients and their loved ones, knowledge may make a difference.

[1] Dicken BJ, et al. Ann Surg. 2005;241(1):27–39.

[2] American Cancer Society. What Is Stomach Cancer? January 2021.

[3] American Cancer Society. Key Statistics About Stomach Cancer. January 2021.

[4] Bray F, et al. CA Cancer J Clin. 2018;68:394–424.

[5] American Cancer Society. Signs and Symptoms of Stomach Cancer. January 2021.

[6] American Cancer Society. Stomach Cancer Survival Rates. January 2021.

[7] American Cancer Society. Stomach Cancer Risk Factors. January 2021.

[8] Cancer.gov. Tumor Markers. May 2021.

[9] Zhao D, Klempner SJ, et al. J Hematol Oncol. 2019;12:50.

[10] Iqbal N, et al. Mol Biol Int. 2014;2014:852748.

[11] Kelly CM, Janjigian YY. J Gastrointest Oncol. 2016;7(5):750-762.

[12] Abrahao-Machado LF, Scapulatempo-Neto, C. World J Gastroenterol. 2016;22(19):4619-4625.

[13] American Cancer Society. Treatment Choices Based on the Extent of Stomach Cancer. May 2021.

[14] Körfer J, Lordick F, et al. Cancers (Basel). 2021;13(20):5216.

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5 tips to help toddlers eat a nutritious diet

2021-12-21T17:07:35

(BPT) – As your baby becomes a toddler, it can be challenging to make sure they’re getting the recommended amounts of nutrients for healthy growth and development — like vitamin D, DHA and iron. Toddlers are notoriously picky, and some use mealtime as an opportunity to assert their independence, which makes meals more challenging.

Concerns about nutrition for young children

An analysis of nutrient intake of children 1-6 years old using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) concluded that most children did not consume enough of several important nutrients:

  • 87% had inadequate vitamin D, which helps children build strong bones.
  • Over 7% may be deficient in iron, which supports brain development and helps carry oxygen through the body.
  • Intake of DHA was universally low. (This fatty acid is important for brain development.)
  • Very few consumed adequate amounts of fiber, while less than 50% consumed adequate amounts of choline and potassium.
  • Fiber deficiency and inadequate calcium were seen in a significant percentage.

“All these nutrients are important to help growing toddlers develop physically and cognitively,” said Katina Langley, a registered dietitian/nutritionist and medical science liaison for Reckitt. “And it gets harder to ensure children get adequate nutrition as they become more particular about what they eat.”

Tips for ensuring toddlers eat a nutritious diet

Langley recommends persistence, plus trying several approaches, from modeling healthy behavior to offering nutritious — but limited — choices. “Toddlers can be overwhelmed by too many choices,” said Langley. “Provide a few healthy options to give them a sense of control.”

Try these tactics to help keep your toddlers developing as they should.

1. Lead by example

Toddlers watch what you do more than they listen to what you say. Fill your own plate with the same healthy foods you want them to eat, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, dairy, proteins and whole grains.

2. Let kids help

From growing food in your garden to preparing food together, inspire curiosity about where food comes from and how it’s prepared. Take kids to a farmers market or pick-your-own farm. Let kids help wash fresh fruits and veggies, then measure or mix ingredients. Limit tasks to safe and easy things to do — adding to what they can handle as they get older. They’ll be more likely to try food they helped make.

3. Keep portions small

Introduce small amounts of new items alongside familiar foods. Choose or cut food to the appropriate size for toddlers to avoid choking hazards. Don’t stress if they won’t eat new food right away, but keep trying. Over time they may become curious about it.

Offer easy-to-chew-and-swallow finger foods:

  • Eggs contain high-quality protein, choline and vitamin D.
  • Cut berries can provide fiber, potassium and antioxidants, like vitamin C, that can help the body absorb iron.
  • Cooked butternut squash, sweet potatoes, carrots and chopped bananas are good sources of potassium.
  • Cut or mashed black beans and garbanzo beans are good iron sources.

Cut foods into bite-sized portions or gently bake, sauté or steam them to make them easy to eat and more appealing.

4. Use a supplement

For toddlers with low variety in their diets or who may be particularly picky, try adding a toddler nutritional drink to help fill any nutrient gaps. This can help ensure they’re getting important vitamins and minerals to help support their growth and brain development. For example, Enfagrow Premium Toddler Nutritional Drink is made with real milk and contains nutrients like vitamin D, DHA and iron. Serve as a drink on the go, or use the powder in baking or a smoothie.

5. Get creative

Try blending nutrient-dense, vitamin-rich foods into items they’re already eating: Add spinach or cauliflower to pasta sauce, blend frozen berries into yogurt or add egg whites or milk to oatmeal.

It’s normal for toddlers to have narrow food preferences, and some days they may be more picky than others. Think of a child’s nutritional intake over a week — rather than per day — to decrease the stress of needing them to eat every food, every day.

Learn more about toddler nutrition and Enfagrow recipes at www.Enfamil.com.

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Health resolutions simplified thanks to these expert tips

2021-12-21T14:19:00

(BPT) – A new year is a time of reflection and opportunity to focus on gratitude and goals for the future. Resolutions can be anything that you desire, but with health and wellness top of mind for so many people, two of the most popular are eating healthier and getting fit.

The problem with resolutions is that everyone starts with good intentions, but few succeed. Research shows only 8% of people actually achieve their New Year’s resolutions. If you want to be part of the successful 8%, it’s time to shift your mindset and start with small steps that are maintainable.

“You can set yourself up for success by making meaningful changes and shifting your thinking,” says Colette Heimowitz, vice president, Nutrition & Education, Simply Good Foods.

Heimowitz shares the following strategies to help you stick to your resolutions to eat healthier with a low-carb lifestyle and make lasting positive changes:

Plan ahead for success

Going cold turkey on low fiber/high sugar carbs and favorite treats may be a challenge if your fridge and pantry are still stuffed with leftover goodies. For a fresh start, consider organizing your kitchen, tossing out or giving away excessive unhealthy temptations, and stocking up on good-for-you foods that fuel your body.

Some ideas for low-carb foods include cheese, eggs, tofu, rotisserie chicken, fresh baked ham and or turkey, frozen hamburger patties, pork chops, shrimp, and chicken breasts or thighs. In the pantry, stock canned or vacuum packs of tuna, salmon, sardines, crabmeat or clams, plus marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers and jars of olives. Lots of colorful vegetables for salad fixings and cut-up vegetables are a must-have for the fridge.

Stick with your schedule

Whenever possible, try to be consistent with your low-carb snacks and meals, aiming for three meals and two snacks a day. This should keep your appetite under control, even when faced with tempting treats.

Enjoy a treat

Eating well is a balance and everyone wants to enjoy a treat now and then. You can keep your goals and enjoy something sweet like the Atkins Keto Peanut Butter Cups. This decadent treat is made with real peanut butter and a delicious chocolaty coating, has 2 grams net carbs, 6 grams of fiber and less than 1 gram of sugar.

If you prefer a cocktail or glass of wine, there are thoughtful low carb options from Atkins to help you stick to your goals. Certain spirits, such as scotch, vodka and gin are naturally low in carbs, just avoid mixing them with juice, tonic water or non-diet soda. Go for seltzer, diet tonic or diet soda instead. If you’d prefer white wine, pinot grigio and sauvignon blanc are your best choices. If you’re into red, try pinot noir.

Add some steps

Moving your body regularly is essential to health and wellness, but it’s not always about working out. Sometimes it’s about adjusting your days to add movement whenever possible. For example, get up every hour from your desk and sneak in some squats, sit-ups or push-ups. Or, park farther away from your destination. Take a walk during lunch or after dinner.

“When you can sneak in a workout, consider popular techniques like circuit or high-intensity interval training,” said Heimowitz. “Tabata workouts, for example, are short intervals such as 20 seconds of intense, all-out work followed by a brief recovery of 10 seconds, for a total of eight rounds, with the total workout lasting about four minutes.”

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Shopping more online? Here are 5 ways to keep your packages safe

2021-12-21T14:27:31

(BPT) – Since the pandemic more and more consumers have been shopping online. In 2020, online sales jumped nearly 32% compared to the prior year, with online sales on track to outpace that record in 2021, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

If you’re one of the many that forgoes the shopping malls for online shopping at home, you might find yourself thinking more about how to keep your package deliveries safe. To make sure your cyber shopping experience is even more rewarding and stress free, here are five ways you can ensure you never miss a delivery.

1. Get deliveries inside your garage

Back in July, Mina Starsiak Hawk, owner of Two Chicks and a Hammer, had some packages repeatedly stolen off her front porch and she decided to play a prank on the thieves. However, when she looked to get serious about the issue, she turned to her garage. “I have a myQ Smart Garage Door Opener by LiftMaster and a myQ Smart Garage Camera, which both work with Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery,” said Mina. “Instead of having packages sitting on my front porch, I now have them delivered to my garage where they are out of sight until I get home. I can even watch the deliveries happen in real time from my myQ app.” For less than $30, homeowners can easily upgrade their existing garage door opener into a smart garage opener with a myQ Smart Garage Control hub. Once the garage door opener is connected to the myQ app they can link to Amazon Key in the myQ app for convenient and secure In-Garage Delivery of Amazon packages and groceries.

2. Give specific delivery instructions

Most delivery services allow customers to set instructions on where, when and how to deliver packages to the intended destination. Ask your mail carrier to knock or ring the doorbell to alert you when a package arrives. If snow, rain or any other weather conditions are a concern, request that your mail carrier place packages in an out-of-sight dry spot. Get creative and use other delivery points such as back porches, patios and exterior basement stairs.

3. Sign up for delivery alerts

Major mail carriers and delivery services have systems for tracking packages. You can use tracking numbers to determine where an item is and when it should be delivered. Check with your delivery provider to see if you can sign up for email or text message alerts when your package is shipped, out for delivery and delivered.

4. Team up with a neighbor

Work with a trustworthy neighbor to look after each other’s packages. If a neighbor is at home during an anticipated delivery, ask if you can send packages to their address or have them hold deliveries that come to your front door. Return the favor whenever possible and bake a treat or give a small thank-you gift to show your appreciation.

5. Request a signature

If you are ordering expensive items online, it’s smart to require a signature for delivery. By requesting a signature, you can ensure that your online purchases are never left unattended. If you’re not at home during delivery, the mail carrier will typically leave a note with options for rescheduling the delivery or picking up the package in person.

Give yourself the gift of peace of mind by trying out some of these package delivery tips and spend more time enjoying the moments that matter.

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How an electric vehicle can help you meet your goals in 2022

2021-12-21T09:31:00

(BPT) – Do you want to be more budget-conscious? Perhaps you’re looking for new ways to eliminate emissions from your car’s tailpipe? Goals related to finances and the environment are popular resolutions for Americans year after year. While there are many ways to accomplish these two goals separately, switching to an electric vehicle (EV) might be a simple way to help you accomplish both.

An electric vehicle can help save you money through lower maintenance and fueling costs while reducing your amount of tailpipe emissions. Here’s more about how driving electric can get you closer to keeping these two important resolutions:

EVs save money

EVs typically mean lower maintenance and fuel costs. According to Energy.gov, light-duty battery electric vehicles are generally cheaper to maintain than traditional gas-powered vehicles. Plus, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory estimates EV drivers can save up to $10,500 in fuel costs over a 15-year time span compared to a gas vehicle.

Electric cars also help you save through a more efficient drivetrain. EV batteries can last for 12-15 years in moderate climates, and an electric car’s drive system doesn’t lose as much energy as a traditional gas car’s engine. This means an EV can save you more money, long term.

When you factor in the improved energy efficiency and reduced maintenance costs (such as a lack of oil changes), driving electric can save you thousands during the life of the vehicle (average vehicle lifespan is 12 years). According to Consumer Reports, those savings may range between $6,000-$10,000.

If you’re looking to purchase an EV, you might be able to save even more through federal tax credits of up to $7,500. Some state and local governments may offer additional incentives too.

EVs support a sustainable lifestyle

If you’re looking for simple ways to live a less carbon-intensive lifestyle, driving an EV is a great choice as they typically emit lower levels of greenhouse gases than the average new gasoline car.

Just how much fewer emissions do EVs generate? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, EVs produce an average of 3,700 pounds of CO2 equivalent emissions per year, compared to more than 11,400 pounds of average CO2 equivalent emissions from gasoline-powered vehicles. That’s a lot of CO2 that won’t end up in the air if you’re driving electric.

EVs come with benefit of flexible charging

Once you make the decision to switch to an EV, you’ll have the benefit of flexible charging options to keep your car up and running.

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, more than 80% of EV charging is done at home, and residential charging equipment can most likely be installed in your garage. Beyond the home, public EV charging station options are also growing rapidly, with strong support from policymakers, businesses and consumers.

Electrify America, the nation’s largest public network of ultra-fast EV charging stations, offers charging options along highway routes and in metro areas, and in many places you visit regularly: alongside restaurants, by grocery stores, at major retailers and shopping malls, close to convenience stores and gas stations — even near financial services like banks.

To help drivers feel confident taking their electric vehicles on longer trips, Electrify America offers multiple cross-country routes and several north-to-south routes, and many other interstate options along the coasts and Middle America. And the station growth continues: by 2026, the company plans to have more than 1,800 fast-charging stations and 10,000 individual chargers installed in the U.S. and Canada.

Whether you’re looking to save money or eliminate your tailpipe emissions — or both — in the next year, an EV is a great option for sticking to those resolutions. As more EVs come to market — and support for electric cars and the stations that charge them continues to grow — you can feel good knowing you’re ahead of the curve by making the switch to electric now.

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Financial wellness is even more critical as many Americans seek personal change

2021-12-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – As we continue to navigate the economic impact of the pandemic, a Prudential Financial survey* finds more than half of Americans have made a significant change in their lives in the past 18 months, and three-quarters are considering life changes in the future; changes that include switching jobs, taking time off from work and retirement.

According to Brad Hearn, Prudential’s president of Retail Advice and Solutions, for those considering making a major financial change, now isn’t necessarily the time to throw caution to the wind. “For many, the impact of the pandemic has been life changing, from income disruption, job loss and even reduced or eliminated employer contributions to insurance and retirement plans. Any financial decision needs to be carefully planned before executing,” said Hearn.

To help get your financial status ready to support a significant change in your life, Hearn offers these tips:

  • Conduct a financial wellness assessment: Take advantage of free tools like this financial wellness assessment to help you create a plan to reach your financial goals. From retirement planning to household budgeting, you can see where your finances currently stand and how to plan ahead for the future.
  • Set clear goals and make a plan: What do you plan to achieve with your money in the next few years and in the long run? Maybe it’s to plan for a secure retirement, maybe it’s to manage debt or it’s about upping your investing game. Set a detailed plan toward the goals. You can also tap a financial advisor for guidance and help.
  • Focus on building up your savings: Charting a new path doesn’t mean you should stop building savings. Quite the opposite. It can be even more important to establish a routine to fuel a savings account as you begin a new chapter in your life. Doing so will provide flexibility, relief and, in some cases, security should there be any unexpected twists and turns.

These simple steps can help you establish a more secure foundation, whether or not you’re one of the many Americans embarking on a new path in 2022.

*The survey was conducted on YouGov Direct: 1,200 U.S. adults 18+ were surveyed on Nov. 16, 2021, from 2:49 p.m.-4:45 p.m. Eastern time. Data is weighted on age, gender, education level, political affiliation and ethnicity to be nationally representative of adults 18+ in the United States. The margin of error is approximately 2.8% for the overall sample.

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Communication Is Key When Facing a Multiple Myeloma Diagnosis

2021-12-20T16:01:00

(BPT) – Sanofi developed and sponsored this article and Roldan was compensated for his time.

As an avid runner, Roldan enjoyed an active lifestyle. However, during a routine physical one decade ago, his physician observed an abnormal elevated protein in one of his blood labs and ordered additional tests from a local oncologist. The resulting diagnosis: multiple myeloma.

Roldan’s first reaction was shock and disbelief, as just one week earlier, he completed a local race. “With my background in clinical pharmacy, I had a baseline understanding of multiple myeloma, but I wasn’t very familiar with the disease when I was first diagnosed,” Roldan recalled.

Roldan is one of more than 34,000 Americans that are diagnosed with multiple myeloma each year.1 Multiple myeloma is the second most common form of blood cancer, affecting more than 149,000 patients in the United States.2 Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, which are types of white blood cells found in the bone marrow. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells grow uncontrollably and crowd out the normal cells in the bone marrow.1

Symptoms of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is most frequently diagnosed in people aged 65-74.1 Like in Roldan’s case, not all patients experience symptoms of multiple myeloma at initial diagnosis. However, some patients may experience persistent or recurrent bone pain, persistent fatigue, recurrent unexplained infections, nervous system disorders, and shortness of breath, among other symptoms.3

Relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma

Since multiple myeloma does not have a cure, most patients will eventually relapse. Relapsed (or recurrent) multiple myeloma is the term for when the cancer returns after treatment or a period of remission.4 Refractory multiple myeloma refers to when the cancer does not respond to a specific therapy. In some patients, the cancer may respond to an initial treatment, but not to the same treatment following a relapse.5

Roldan’s experience

Since the day of his diagnosis, Roldan’s wife has been his biggest source of support. They lean on each other and take on each challenge one day at a time, and her optimism helps him maintain a positive outlook.

Initially, Roldan worried about how living with multiple myeloma would affect his life. Due to the challenges he has experienced while managing his symptoms, he is no longer as active as he used to be. Fortunately, he has been able to transition to a position at his work with greater flexibility, which allows Roldan more time to attend doctor’s appointments and receive treatments.

Roldan has tried many treatments, and while some would be effective for a while, his myeloma levels would eventually go back up. Understanding the evolving landscape in the treatment of multiple myeloma, Roldan kept an open line of communication with his doctors, asking questions and discussing available options.

After discussing treatment options, his doctor recently prescribed Sarclisa® (isatuximab-irfc), which he receives via infusion every other week. Since beginning treatment with Sarclisa, his multiple myeloma has responded to the treatment.

Sarclisa works together with your immune system to help destroy myeloma cells. The recommended dose of Sarclisa is 10 mg/kg as an intravenous infusion every week for 4 weeks followed by every 2 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Sarclisa is a prescription medicine used in combination with:

  • The medicines pomalidomide and dexamethasone, to treat adults who have received at least 2 prior therapies including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor to treat multiple myeloma.
  • The medicines carfilzomib and dexamethasone, to treat adults with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received 1 to 3 prior lines of therapy.

Once prescribed, your doctor and other members of your healthcare team will explain how you will receive Sarclisa along with these other medicines.

Serious side effects of Sarclisa include infusion reactions, decreased white blood cell counts, risk of new cancers, change in blood tests, and heart failure.

The most frequent adverse reactions for Sarclisa in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone are lung infection (pneumonia), decreased red blood cell counts (anemia), upper respiratory tract infection, decreased platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), and diarrhea.

The most frequent adverse reactions for Sarclisa in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone are upper respiratory tract infection, infusion reactions, fatigue, hypertension, diarrhea, pneumonia, dyspnea, bronchitis, and cough.

These are not all the possible side effects of Sarclisa. Please see additional Important Safety Information in this article. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Advice for others living with multiple myeloma

What Roldan would like to share with others is that although there’s no cure for multiple myeloma, there are treatments that can help stop the progression of the disease.

For the past ten years, Roldan has traveled two hours to see his myeloma specialist. “It’s important to have open communication with your doctor, and to seek out a multiple myeloma specialist if one is available. It’s also important to make sure you’re asking the right questions to work together to find a treatment that’s best for you,” said Roldan.

Every patient’s experience is unique and individual results may vary. Remember, your doctor is your best source of information and be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR SARCLISA

Do not receive SARCLISA if you have a history of a severe allergic reaction to isatuximab-irfc or any of the ingredients in SARCLISA (see the list of ingredients in the full Prescribing Information).

Before receiving SARCLISA, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • Have heart problems, if your healthcare provider prescribes SARCLISA in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone for you.
  • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. SARCLISA may harm your unborn baby. You should not receive SARCLISA during pregnancy.
    • Females who are able to become pregnant should use an effective method of birth control during treatment and for 5 months after your last dose of SARCLISA. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control methods that you can use during this time.
      Tell your healthcare provider right away if you think you are pregnant or become pregnant during treatment with SARCLISA.
  • Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if SARCLISA passes into your breast milk. You should not breastfeed during treatment with SARCLISA.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you have ever taken a medicine for your heart.

How will I receive SARCLISA?

  • SARCLISA will be given to you by your healthcare provider by intravenous (IV) infusion into your vein.
  • SARCLISA is given in treatment cycles of 28 days (4 weeks), together with either the medicines pomalidomide and dexamethasone, or carfilzomib and dexamethasone.
    • In cycle 1, SARCLISA is usually given weekly.
    • Starting in cycle 2, SARCLISA is usually given every 2 weeks.
  • If you miss any appointments, call your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment.
  • Your healthcare provider will give you medicines before each dose of SARCLISA to help reduce the risk of infusion reactions (make them less frequent and severe).

What are the possible side effects of SARCLISA?

SARCLISA may cause serious side effects, including:

  • Infusion reactions. Infusion reactions are common with SARCLISA and can sometimes be severe or life threatening.
    • Your healthcare provider will prescribe medicines before each infusion of SARCLISA to help decrease your risk for infusion reactions or to help make any infusion reaction less severe. You will be monitored for infusion reactions during each dose of SARCLISA.
    • Your healthcare provider may slow down or stop your infusion, or completely stop treatment with SARCLISA if you have an infusion reaction.

Get medical help right away if you develop any of the following symptoms of infusion reaction during or after an infusion of SARCLISA:

— shortness of breath, wheezing, or trouble breathing
— swelling of the face, mouth, throat, or tongue
— throat tightness
— palpitations
— dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
— headache
— cough
— rash or itching
— nausea
— runny or stuffy nose
— chills

  • Decreased white blood cell counts. Decreased white blood cell counts are common with SARCLISA and certain white blood cells can be severely decreased. You may have an increased risk of getting certain infections, such as upper and lower respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections.

    Your healthcare provider will check your blood cell counts during treatment with SARCLISA. Your healthcare provider may prescribe an antibiotic or antiviral medicine to help prevent infection, or a medicine to help increase your white blood cell counts during treatment with SARCLISA.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop any fever or symptoms of infection during treatment with SARCLISA.

  • Risk of new cancers. New cancers have happened in people during treatment with SARCLISA. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for new cancers during treatment with SARCLISA.
  • Change in blood tests. SARCLISA can affect the results of blood tests to match your blood type. Your healthcare provider will do blood tests to match your blood type before you start treatment with SARCLISA. Tell all of your healthcare providers that you are being treated with SARCLISA before receiving blood transfusions.
  • Heart failure. Heart failure can happen during treatment with SARCLISA in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop any of the following symptoms:

– trouble breathing – cough – swelling of your ankles, feet, or legs

The most common side effects of SARCLISA in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone include:

  • lung infection (pneumonia)
  • decreased red blood cell counts (anemia)
  • upper respiratory tract infection
  • decreased platelet counts (thrombocytopenia)
  • diarrhea

The most common side effects of SARCLISA in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone include:

  • upper respiratory tract infection
  • tiredness and weakness
  • high blood pressure
  • diarrhea
  • lung infection (pneumonia)
  • trouble breathing
  • trouble sleeping
  • bronchitis
  • cough
  • back pain
  • decreased red blood cells (anemia)
  • decreased platelet counts (thrombocytopenia)

These are not all the possible side effects of SARCLISA. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information

To learn more about Sarclisa, visit www.MyMyelomaOptions.com.

[1] National Cancer Institute. Cancer Stat Facts. Myeloma. https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/mulmy.html. Accessed September 2021.

[2] International Myeloma Foundation. What is Multiple Myeloma? Available at: https://www.myeloma.org/what-is-multiple-myeloma. Accessed September 2021.

[3] American Cancer Society. Signs and Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/multiplemyeloma/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-symptoms.html. Accessed September 2021.

[4] International Myeloma Foundation. Treatments for Subsequent Relapse. https://www.myeloma.org/treatments-subsequent-relapse. Accessed September 2021

[5] Cancer.Net. Multiple Myeloma – Types of Treatment. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma/types-treatment. Accessed September 2021.