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Family matters: Why genetic cancer testing is important

2025-09-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – When someone in your family is diagnosed with cancer, it can raise questions. Is it a coincidence, or is there something that runs in the family that makes others more likely to get it too? For Jodi, whose mother was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 51, and whose maternal grandfather was diagnosed with the same disease at 55, those questions were top of mind from a young age. Her family history instilled a fear of the unknown — was she at elevated risk too?

For women like Jodi who have a family history of cancer, the possibility of what genetic testing might reveal can be scary, yet having answers can be empowering.

“You know, I had always been very afraid of cancer because of my family history,” Jodi shared. “And not just breast cancer. I’ve also wondered if I’m predisposed to developing other types, too.”

According to the latest Cancer Risk Survey by Myriad Genetics, 80% of women report being afraid to get screened for cancer, primarily due to fear of the results. That said, 75% say they would actually find screenings like genetic testing reassuring if they were facing a potential health concern.

Getting tested: Jodi’s decision

When Jodi’s healthcare provider, Linda New, PA-C, learned about Jodi’s extensive family cancer history, which includes types of cancer that raise red flags, she was surprised Jodi had not been offered hereditary cancer testing before. She immediately let her know that she meets guideline criteria for genetic testing.

Linda recommended the MyRisk® Hereditary Cancer Test with RiskScore® to determine if she had an inherited genetic mutation that increased her risk for hereditary cancers.

Though Jodi was nervous about the results, she knew that if she carried an inherited gene mutation, the test would help ease her fear of the unknown, and her results would likely give her the power to act early. She moved forward, for herself and for her daughter.

“It was a hard decision, but I did it knowing I’ve always been afraid of cancer,” said Jodi. “I decided to get tested with my daughter Kaila in mind because she could have the same genetic mutation.”

A simple test that gives you options

The MyRisk Hereditary Cancer Test with RiskScore evaluates a patient’s risk of developing 11 different types of hereditary cancer and provides a 5-year and remaining lifetime personalized risk for breast cancer. The testing process is straightforward — a quick blood draw at the clinician’s office.

If Jodi was found to be at high risk, she and her healthcare provider would have multiple options available, including changes in medical management, earlier screenings or increased screening frequency.

For Jodi, the most difficult part of the process was the waiting, but in just a few weeks, the results confirmed what she suspected. She tested positive for the BRCA2 gene mutation that could increase her risk of developing breast, ovarian and other cancers.

Instead of letting this piece of information weigh her down, Jodi saw a path forward. Linda guided Jodi through a plan for early detection and prevention, which included breast MRIs, pelvic ultrasounds and a referral to a breast specialist — steps that ultimately led her to remove her ovaries and undergo a double mastectomy. These were big decisions, but they gave her a sense of control and the confidence that she was doing everything she could for her health and her future.

Inspiring others, saving lives

Jodi also encouraged her daughter Kaila to take the MyRisk Hereditary Cancer Test with RiskScore. Knowing she had a 50/50 chance of sharing her mother’s gene mutation, and with Jodi’s encouragement, Kaila decided to get tested, too. The result: She was also positive for the BRCA2 mutation.

Given her risk, Kaila immediately discussed risk-reducing measures with her healthcare provider, which included breast and uterine ultrasounds and potential ovary and breast removal down the line.

“I’m 33 and haven’t had kids yet,” said Kaila. “I want to, and I want to be able to breastfeed. So, I’m trying to keep everything intact until that happens. But once I’ve had children, I’ll be considering other preventative options.”

Know your risk and plan for the future.

Knowing your family history (both maternal and paternal) as part of a comprehensive cancer risk assessment can provide you and your provider with clear information to make informed decisions about managing cancer risk. If you’re on the fence about getting tested for BRCA1, BRCA2 or other hereditary cancer mutations, consider if you have the following risk factors:

  • A family history of cancer that is diagnosed at a young age (50 or younger), like breast cancer diagnosed at age 45
  • Multiples of the same type of cancers on the same side of the family, like three colorectal cancers on the paternal side
  • Rare cancers like ovarian or pancreatic cancer

Jodi hopes her story will empower those who may be hesitant to get additional screenings if they qualify.

“I would say just get tested. If you have a family history of cancer and the slightest doubt that you could carry a gene mutation associated with cancer, get this simple blood test. It’s better to know whatever decision you make, you will have the tools and information you need to make it with confidence.”

Talk with your health care provider to see if you meet guidelines for a hereditary cancer risk assessment, like the MyRisk Hereditary Cancer Test with RiskScore. Understanding your results can empower you and your care team to create a personalized plan to manage your risk and take proactive steps for your health. To learn more, visit GetMyRisk.com.

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Why so many people over 50 love playing video games

2025-09-10T11:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know that more people over the age of 50 play video games in the U.S. than people who are under age 18? This is just one of the many surprising facts uncovered in the 2025 Essential Facts About the U.S. Game Industry Report from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). These findings from the annual study turn popular belief on its head, revealing that video games are a highly popular form of entertainment for players of just about any age, including people in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond.

More older adults are joining in on the fun

Of the over 205 million regular video game players in the U.S., more of today’s players are 50 years or older than ever before. This shows a remarkable increase from 1999, when only 9% of video game players were aged 50 or older.

Here’s the age breakdown for video game players today, according to the ESA report:

  • Aged 50 and older: 29%
  • 35-49: 20%
  • 18-34: 28%
  • Under age 18: 23%

Even more surprising, the report learned that more than half of Generation X (ages 45-60) and nearly half (49%) of Baby Boomers (ages 61-79) play video games every week.

What benefits do older Americans experience from playing video games?

Older players, including people from the Baby Boomer and even the “Silent Generation,” have been discovering the many benefits of playing video games, beyond just relaxing and having fun like their younger counterparts.

For people aged 50 and up, some of the additional benefits derived from playing video games include mental stimulation, improved cognitive skills and new opportunities to connect with others socially. In fact, 57% players aged 65 and older agreed that video games can introduce people to new friends or relationships, whether in person or online.

Some of the top benefits that older players identified from their experiences playing video games include:

  • Mental stimulation
  • Joy through play
  • Improved cognitive skills
  • Stress relief

Multiple academic studies over the years have been backing up these findings from the ESA report, even revealing that video game play can offer lasting, significant relief for older players as a treatment for some of the effects of aging. For example, a recent study concluded that playing video games frequently over time enhanced the cognitive performance and problem solving skills in older people who have mild cognitive impairment. A study from the Brain Sciences Journal also found that training older people with video games improved their cognitive function, quality of sleep and psychiatric symptoms.

For people of all ages, enjoyment is a prime benefit when it comes to video game play. A naturalistic study drawn from observations of over 11,000 players across 29 different countries concluded that video game players experienced positive mood changes. In other words: “People feel good playing games.”

Learn more about who enjoys playing video games today, what types of games they like to play and why, at TheESA.com/facts. You can also download the full ESA report here.

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When antidepressants don’t work, five days could change that

2025-09-10T12:11:00

(BPT) – Finding a medication that alleviates major depression can often take months or years: try a dose, wait, adjust, wait again. And for many, antidepressants simply don’t provide lasting relief. During that time, symptoms can disrupt work, family life and even basic daily functioning.

A new, non-invasive treatment called SAINT® (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy), licensed exclusively to Magnus Medical from Stanford University, is the first FDA-cleared, clinically proven therapy that provides rapid relief for people with major depressive disorder (MDD).

For those with treatment-resistant major depression — a condition impacting more than half of people with depression who don’t respond to medications and psychotherapy — that difference in timing can be lifesaving.

Man wearing glasses looking out the window.

SAINT delivers medication-free relief almost immediately. Each day of the five-day course consists of 10 short sessions of stimulation, guided by a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) map of the individual’s brain.

In published clinical trials with SAINT, nearly 8 out of 10 participants went into remission from their depression in as few as 2.6 days, with a majority staying well for months.

Doctors say the people who qualify for SAINT have typically tried several antidepressants without satisfactory improvement and are looking for a non-drug intervention that doesn’t require hospitalization. These are people who have suffered from life-altering depression that has long impacted their quality of life.

Brandon Bentzley, M.D., Ph.D., a psychiatrist who helped develop SAINT at Stanford, says the goal is precise, rapid relief. “SAINT therapy has already shown the ability to rapidly lift depressive symptoms without systemic side effects, offering hope for a safer, faster solution that helps people feel like themselves again.”

What makes SAINT different from other treatments is the combination of personalization, speed of treatment response and high rates of clinical remission. Before treatment starts, doctors use MRI to pinpoint the unique spot in each person’s brain for treatment, then deliver an outpatient course of brief, precisely targeted stimulation sessions, all completed within a single work week.

Woman leaning against a wall and looking upward.


What do patients often report feeling after the treatment?

Doctors, including Bentzley, say many describe the quieting of racing or repetitive negative thoughts, the first solid night of sleep in months, and a “fog lifting” that makes basic tasks like showering, stepping outside, and creating a simple meal feel doable again.

For most, suicidal thoughts go away, and others report steadier mood and better focus. Families of SAINT patients commonly notice increased eye contact, conversation, and a greater interest in everyday activities soon after treatment begins.

Man outside with a cloud behind him tilting his head up with his eyes closed.


Where do I find SAINT?

SAINT is available at leading health systems, private clinics and medical research centers nationwide. Designated a breakthrough device by the FDA, SAINT is the first mental health therapy to receive innovation support from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) through the New Technology Add-on Payment (NTAP) and New Technology Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) programs, which have helped hospitals and clinics make it easily accessible.

Many commercial insurers approve treatment after medical review, often with prior authorization.

If standard depression treatments have not been effective for you or a family member, talk with your healthcare provider about SAINT. Providers offering SAINT therapy may be found by visiting MagnusMed.com/provider-locator.

Looking ahead

“The future of mental health is precision medicine — treatments that work quickly and effectively,” Bentzley says. “SAINT is proof we’re heading there now.”

If you are in a crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat via 988lifeline.org.

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New study: Half of Americans don’t know the ‘right’ amount to spend on gifts

2025-09-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – Economists have long looked for signals in unexpected places. During tough times, Leonard Lauder popularized the lipstick index — the idea that small luxuries rise when bigger purchases are out of reach.1 We are introducing a new kind of measure: the Going Rate. How we give, tip, and celebrate offers another lens into the economy alongside traditional data points. A new Empower study shows that generosity can be a surprisingly powerful economic indicator. It’s one gauge of how households balance tradition and financial well-being.

According to Empower research, Americans say inflation and tariffs are visible in gift prices. Consumer concern is showing up as “gift fatigue” and no-gift policies. Confidence or caution reveals itself in tipping habits and allowances.

“While most gifts are small spending trackers, they can be economic micro-signals,” says Rebecca Rickert, head of communications and consumer insights at Empower. “They point to how consumer prices, wages, and sentiment translate into real behaviors — from the birthday table to the wedding reception.”

The price tag of thoughtfulness

When it comes to gifting, people have clear benchmarks and codes for different occasions, like the half of people (49%) who say you should “pay for the plate” at weddings (Boomers 39%). For many, it’s a balancing act between etiquette and financial limits: half don’t know what the “right” amount is to give, even though 50% feel pressure to spend a certain amount on gifts. This tension may signal a sense of economic uncertainty, as 3 in 4 (75%) say gifts are more expensive due to tariffs and inflation.

Six in 10 people (60%) say gifting culture has gotten “out of hand” and nearly half (48%) report “gift fatigue.” In fact, many are taking a pause altogether, with 33% adopting a “no gifts” policy this year, asking others not to spend money on them at all. Still, the vast majority (86%) agree that gifts can be meaningful without being expensive.

Here is how Americans define the average “going rate” for many of life’s special occasions:

  • Birthday gift: $55.65 for adults, $83.03 for kids
  • Holiday gift: $64.10 per person
  • Teacher or coach gifts: $15.00
  • Wedding gift: $85.18
  • Valentine’s Day gift: $50.69
  • Mother’s Day vs. Father’s Day: $55.25 vs. $38.48

Adults say the average “going rate” for children’s allowances and milestones like visits from the Tooth Fairy add up as follows:

  • Weekly allowance: $36.52 per child
  • Tooth Fairy payouts: $14.87 per child

Over half of adults (53%) say they’ve gifted money from the Tooth Fairy (58% Millennials). Meanwhile, people are split about when kids should start receiving an allowance: A third (33%) say ages 8–10 is the right time, while 24% prefer 11–13, and 22% say as young as 5–7.

Tipping today

Consumers are also navigating an evolving landscape of tipping, where norms vary widely depending on the situation. Tipping culture has moved beyond sit-down dining, with the majority of consumers now tipping for takeout (60%; 69% Millennials vs. 43% Boomers), delivery (69%; 76% Gen Z and Millennials vs. Boomers 57%), and rideshares (60%; 65% Gen Z and Millennials vs. 50% Boomers). Here is what Americans say they’re leaving:

  • In-restaurant dining: 20% median tip; 24.71% average
  • Takeout dining: 16% median; 21.79% average
  • Food delivery: 11% median; 18.09% average
  • Beauty services: 14% median; 18.55% average
  • Rideshare services: 10% median; 15.85% average

A shift in what counts as a gift – and who’s giving

Many Americans see gifting as less about dollars spent and more about shared experiences. Some 44% say they’d rather give the “gift of time” than money or material items — and say their presence is the real gift (55% Millennials; 50% Gen Z; 28% Boomers). Eight in 10 (79%) say cash and gift cards are more acceptable today than in the past (rising to 84% of Boomers). More than half (55%) think their generation spends more than others.

Gift-giving extends into dozens of micro-moments across the year, and is widely commonplace — especially for birthdays, regardless of age. Nearly three in four (73%) buy birthday gifts for other adults (81% Gen Z vs 65% Boomers), and kids (70%) alike. Nearly half (45%) buy gifts for coworkers to celebrate events like work anniversaries, holidays, and retirement (60% Gen Z; 54% Millennials).

The cost of goods

Many consumers are adapting to the effects of rising costs by budgeting carefully. Some 63% say they shop for gifts primarily based on price, and 58% set aside a dedicated budget for gift-giving. People also report planning for occasions: 56% buy gifts ahead of time to spread out the costs, especially Gen Z (67%).

Methodology:
Empower’s “Going Rate” study is based on online survey responses from 2,202 Americans ages 18+ from August 19-21, 2025. The survey is weighted to be nationally representative of U.S. adults.

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1 New York Times. “Leonard Lauder Was Beauty’s Original Influencer.” June 2025.

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What drivers need to know about glass damage insurance

2025-09-09T08:31:00

(BPT) – While road debris can damage your vehicle’s windshield at any time, seasonal severe weather events are also a major cause of glass damage. With extreme weather on the rise especially at this time of year, hazards like hail, projectiles blown by high winds and drastic temperature fluctuations can all wreak havoc on your car’s windshield and windows.

But did you know such damage may not be fully covered by your auto insurance? The experts at Glass Doctor®, a Neighborly® company and leading provider of glass repair and replacement services, encourage all drivers to review their insurance policies so you’ll know what’s covered, to help you avoid costly surprises.

Here are some things you should know about protecting your vehicle.

Minor chips can quickly become major hazards

Even if you only see a small chip in your windshield, it’s best to be proactive and get it repaired as soon as possible. Minor chips or cracks can expand rapidly, reducing your visibility as well as your safety. In most states, extensive windshield damage or damage that limits the driver’s visibility also makes your vehicle illegal to operate.

Comprehensive coverage to protect your vehicle

If you own a vehicle, check your policy or contact your insurance agent to ensure you’re fully covered for glass repairs from collisions, debris, extreme weather events and more. But you’ll also want to ask about the following:

  • ADAS calibration: Vehicles today rely on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which require calibration after a windshield replacement. It’s important to know that not all policies cover this crucial step, so make sure to confirm whether ADAS calibration is included to avoid safety issues and unexpected costs after necessary glass repairs.
  • Choice of provider: While many insurance companies recommend or direct customers to their preferred repair networks, policyholders often have the right to choose their own glass repair service provider. Ask your agent or check your policy to see if you’ll have that choice in the event of damage. Opting for a trusted, locally owned company, like Glass Doctor, can lead to better service and fewer surprise expenses.

To help make glass repair and replacement simple, timely, and stress-free, Glass Doctor offers a Windshield Protection Plan designed to help drivers quickly and affordably address common road hazard damage quickly and affordably. The plan includes unlimited windshield repairs or one full replacement within one year of the original installation, along with ADAS calibration when necessary.

Representative from Glass Doctor talking with a couple about their protection program while their car is in the shop.

Don’t forget about your home’s glass

Like vehicles, your home’s windows are vulnerable to damage from storms, accidents, or simple wear and tear. But did you know some insurance policies have home glass damage exclusions? That means the policies won’t cover certain types of glass damage, such as gradual wear, flooding, earthquakes, and accidental damage. Regular maintenance of your windows and a solid understanding of your policy’s limitations can help ensure that your homeowner’s insurance policy remains effective.

Couple talking with a representative from Glass Doctor about window replacement in their home.

No matter the cause of the damage, Glass Doctor experts work closely with insurance providers, offering support to customers throughout the glass-related coverage claims process for auto and home glass repairs. To help prevent unpleasant surprises after an accident, review your policy in advance rather than after damage occurs for long-term financial protection and peace of mind.

“Glass damage to cars and homes often happens at the worst times, like during a family road trip or following a sudden, severe storm,” said Thomas Patterson, director of New Product Development and Technical Training for Glass Doctor. “Safeguarding your property with the right insurance coverage can protect your investment and reduce stress when the unexpected happens. Not all policies are the same, so check your coverage before damage occurs to protect your investment fully.”

Representative from Glass Doctor replacing glass on a table top in a couple's home.

Learn more about Glass Doctor’s auto and home glass repair services at GlassDoctor.com.

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How to paint smarter: 3 time-saving tips for Pro-level results

2025-09-09T09:01:00

(BPT) – A high-quality paint job for indoor or outdoor projects doesn’t happen by accident. Investing time to find the right tools and paint, as well as applying the right techniques, goes a long way in achieving a polished, long-lasting result that takes the least amount of time.

Whether you’re a professional painter or a homeowner who is ready to take on your next project, Purdy® is here to help make your paint job a better paint job. Since 1925, Purdy has crafted a wide range of high-quality painting tools for Pros and DIYers alike. What started with one good brush 100 years ago has evolved into the #1 brand preferred by Pros.*

To celebrate a century of painting excellence, Purdy offers its top three tips that can help you save time and deliver Pro-level results.

1. Prepare the surface before painting

Before you begin painting, prep the surface by repairing any holes, sanding rough surfaces and cleaning away dust to ensure a perfect finish. These measures can save you time down the road by improving paint adhesion and preventing the need for time-wasting repaints.

To save on prep time, use a multi-tool that is designed to remove nails, clean cracks and spread compound — all in one — to create a smooth surface before laying paint.

Man using a Purdry three-in-one tool while preparing a door frame for painting.


2. Select the right tools for the job

The next step is to select the right tools for the job. Using the right paint applicator is key to a professional-looking finish. From brush bristle and filament types to roller cover material and nap sizes, each applicator is designed for specific paint types, surfaces and project needs.

Additionally, the right tools can help simplify your painting project and ensure a smooth finish the first time without time-consuming touch ups. When painting walls, ceilings and other tall surfaces, use an extension pole like the Purdy POLE+. Designed for maximum performance, it features a secure pin-lock every 3 inches, providing twice the adjustability when compared to the Wooster® Sherlock® GT® Pole. This pin-locking mechanism also ensures stability to prevent slippage and increase reliability.

3. Focus on efficiency

Efficiency is not just about moving quickly. Efficiency requires a painter to balance time and quality with tools built with productivity in mind.

The Purdy Altitude™ Roller Cover, for example, is made of a microfiber and polyester blended fabric that delivers an ultrasmooth, uniform application and superb hide, allowing painters to complete jobs fast. When compared to the Purdy WhiteDove™ Roller Cover, the Altitude produces a superior smooth finish with 50% more coverage when used with premium paints.

Man using an extension Purdy POLE+ and a roller to paint at wall in the livingroom.

Similarly, the Purdy Pro-Extra® High-Capacity Brush is built to increase productivity, with a patented design that holds 40% more paint compared to the Purdy Pro-Extra® Glide™ Brush, when used with premium paints. This brush helps Pros finish jobs fast by reducing trips to the paint bucket.

Whether you’re a Pro or a DIY homeowner, these three expert tips can help you save time on painting so you or your clients can enjoy the final product. To learn more tips, find professional-grade products and celebrate a century of making tools that work as hard as you do, visit Purdy.com.

*2024 inPAINT Magazine Brand Preference Survey, Brush and Roller Categories. May/June Issue.

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5 back-to-school tips to get kids excited about reading with Marvel books

2025-09-08T16:31:00

(BPT) – Getting kids to read when they’re not natural bookworms can be challenging. Marvel books are a fun and easy way to get them motivated. Check out five cool and awesome ways to get your kids into reading and prepare them to go back to school.

1. Tap into their beloved Marvel characters

Get kids engaged in reading by selecting books featuring their favorite Marvel characters. Discover great (off-screen!) adventures with Spidey and His Amazing Friends.

At bedtime, how about choosing a copy of 5-Minute Spidey and His Amazing Friends Stories? This collection of 12 short tales easily incorporates reading into your kids’ bedtime routine. Find the perfect read for your young webslinger with plenty of options. Consider Super Readers Pre-Level Marvel: Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Go Team Spidey! and World of Reading Marvel: Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Webs Up! These books are sure to create a memorable reading experience.

2. Engage your kids with age-appropriate book alternatives to movies

With the recent release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Fantastic Four books are a great way for kids to learn more about Marvel’s iconic first family of Super Heroes in an off-screen mode. From the Fantastic Four Little Golden Book to Fantastic Four: My Mighty Marvel First Book to Fantastic Four: A Family (Anti)Matter, discover exciting books sure to provide your child with an enjoyable and age-appropriate alternative to their favorite Marvel movies.

3. Enhance their reading experience with creative activities

Take your kids’ reading experience to the next level by pairing creative activities and books! Activity books will keep your kids entertained and engaged in storytelling.

Marvel activity books featuring beloved characters such as Spidey and his amazing friends or the Fantastic Four are a fun way to create a special reading moment. With multiple activity sheets, stickers, markers, and more, Marvel books will spark your kids’ creativity at home, in the car or on a plane.

4. Create core family memories with awesome activities for everyone

Calling all Marvel fans! Engage your kids with activities involving Marvel books and make reading a fun family moment. Bring comics to life with a copy of the 64-page Marvel: Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Jumbo Coloring and Activity Book, or re-create a theater experience at home with Marvel: Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Movie Theater Storybook & Movie Projector.

For aspiring cartoonists, consider Marvel: How to Draw Awesome Characters. From Iron Man to Captain America to Black Widow to Black Panther and many more, there is a beloved character for everyone.

5. Celebrate reading accomplishments with fun treats

A fun and delicious way to celebrate reading accomplishments is with A Taste of Marvel: Snacks: Bite-Size Recipes in a Snack-Size Book! Inside this tiny but mighty book, you’ll find mouthwatering snack recipes from best-selling Marvel cookbooks such as Marvel: Spider-Man: The Official Cookbook, Marvel: Black Panther: The Official Wakanda Cookbook and Marvel: Cooking with Deadpool.

For kids who love stickers, check out Marvel Studios: Discover the Multiverse: Ultimate Sticker Collection. With more than 1,000 stickers, young readers will re-create favorite moments from epic team-ups and battles.

Little artists and lovers of hands-on activities will discover fun projects in Marvel Crafts: 100+ Activities and Art Projects Inspired by Marvel Comics. Filled with photography and clearly illustrated instructions, this book will boost your kids’ creativity.

That’s a wrap! Five awesome tips to foster a lifelong love of reading. Discover more Marvel books for more fabulous and engaging ideas on Amazon.

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Understanding the Unique Needs of Children Living with Hereditary Angioedema

2025-09-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare, inherited disease characterized by repeated painful and unpredictable episodes (or attacks) of severe swelling in various parts of the body. Swelling attacks may first begin to occur during childhood, and it is important to understand the unique needs of children living with HAE. For more information, visit www.HAEA.org.

An infographic titled

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Back-to-school health check: 5 common issues to watch for

2025-09-08T09:03:00

(BPT) – Back-to-school is a season of checklists, from supplies and schedules to sports signups and lunchbox prep. But amid the flurry of getting your child back into the classroom routine, certain common health issues can be easy to overlook.

That’s because the start of the school year brings a perfect storm of stress, germs and hectic schedules. In the midst of it all, some everyday aches and pains can sneak by undetected until they turn into something much more serious.

“Parents and kids are juggling a lot this time of year,” says Dr. Vontrelle Roundtree, Associate Chief Medical Officer at MD Live by Evernorth. “It’s easy to chalk up certain symptoms to stress or adjusting to new routines, but some can be early warning signs of something that needs medical attention.”

Here are five common health issues that doctors say could easily fly under the radar during the back-to-school rush, and how a virtual care visit can help you stay one step ahead.

1. Tummy troubles that won’t quit

Nervous stomach? Maybe. But if tummy troubles like cramping, diarrhea or nausea linger, it could be more than nerves about the new school year. “These gastrointestinal symptoms could point to newfound food sensitivities or allergies, foodborne illnesses, parasites picked up during summer travel or camp, and even anxiety,” says Roundtree. “It’s easy for these to be mistaken for nerves or a sensitive stomach, but if the child’s symptoms are interfering with their daily activities, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any of those issues.”

2. Fatigue that feels excessive

Back-to-school routines are tiring, especially for younger kids. But excessive fatigue, especially when paired with pale skin, irritability or trouble focusing, can point to an underlying issue like anemia, often caused by an iron deficiency, which is common in school-aged children and teens. This symptom can be easily misinterpreted as the stress of adjusting to early mornings. However, when fatigue is combined with physical or behavioral changes, it is worth exploring further.

3. Headaches that hit at school

If your child is suddenly complaining of headaches more frequently, especially after a long day in front of computer screens or taking notes from the whiteboard, they may be dealing with eye strain, vision issues or even stress-related tension. “These symptoms often show up once kids are back in structured, indoor environments,” Roundtree notes. “It’s absolutely worth bringing up during a doctor’s visit, especially if you find they’re interfering with your child’s concentration or sleep habits.”

4. Frequent bathroom breaks or bedwetting in older kids

If your child suddenly takes more bathroom breaks during the day or has started wetting the bed again, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other underlying condition. While these symptoms might indicate something physical, they can also stem from behavioral or emotional factors. Either way, it’s worth discussing with your child’s doctor.

5. Mood swings that keep swinging

Back-to-school jitters are normal. However, unusual mood swings, outbursts, increased irritability or withdrawal may signal something deeper, such as anxiety, sleep disruptions or even a physical issue like undiagnosed strep, which can sometimes cause neurological symptoms in kids.

“Emotional and physical health are connected,” Roundtree explains. “Changes in mood and behavior may be early signs that something deeper is going on.”

Don’t wait for the school nurse to call

Many of the most common back-to-school health issues can be assessed and addressed virtually from the comfort of your home.

“With MD Live, parents can access board-certified pediatricians quickly, whether they need fast answers, peace of mind or trusted guidance on next steps,” says Roundtree. “Virtual visits are a powerful tool for staying proactive during a hectic school year.”

This year, add health to your back-to-school checklist. If something feels off, trust your instincts and give your family a healthier start to the school year.

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Reclaiming the truth about alopecia areata as an autoimmune disease

2025-09-07T23:01:00

(BPT) – When a teenager starts losing their hair, the world often rushes to offer reassurances: “It’s just hair.” But for the nearly 7 million people in the U.S. living with alopecia areata, many of whom are adolescents, that phrase couldn’t be further from the truth and actually can cause unintended harm.

The truth is: Alopecia areata is not a cosmetic concern. It’s a chronic, unpredictable autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack hair follicles, resulting in partial or complete hair loss on the scalp, face or body. While it may seem like a surface-level issue, its impact runs far deeper. It can affect mental health, social well-being and access to care in ways that too often go unseen, especially for young people.

“Getting treatment changed everything — not just my hair regrowth, but myself,” says Sarah Greene, 16, who was diagnosed at 8 years old despite showing symptoms since the age of 2. Sarah is now on an FDA-approved treatment for patients that helped regrow their hair and restore confidence.

Sarah wearing a whie and blue gown walking next to a stone and brick building.

A serious autoimmune disease, misunderstood

Alopecia areata can appear suddenly, at any age, and progress unpredictably. One day, it might be a coin-sized bald spot on the scalp; the next, it could mean total hair loss across the entire body. Some cases go into remission, others recur and some progress to more severe forms like alopecia totalis or alopecia universalis. The severity and emotional toll vary, but one thing remains constant: It is not simply cosmetic.

Still, unlike other autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, alopecia areata is frequently miscategorized as a superficial or aesthetic issue. This mis-categorization isn’t just frustrating. It can be devastating.

When ‘cosmetic’ becomes a barrier to care

Many insurance companies still classify alopecia areata as a cosmetic condition. As a result, even when FDA-approved treatments are available, patients, especially adolescents, face unnecessary roadblocks to the treatment they need: denial of coverage or administrative hoops to “prove medical necessity” while creating wasteful healthcare spending.

Parents often find themselves in lengthy battles with insurers or face challenging decisions, while their children experience worsening symptoms, bullying and declining self-esteem.

Alopecia doesn’t just steal hair. For students, it can mean unwanted attention, questions they’re not ready to answer, and feeling different at a time when they just want to belong. Too often, the right treatment is just out of reach.

Access and equity: Not everyone gets the same chance

For some communities, the barriers are even steeper. Black and brown adolescents often experience longer delays in diagnosis and face systemic inequities in care. In rural areas or under-resourced schools, there may be few dermatologists, little awareness and no peer support. These disparities mean that access to care is not just about medicine; it’s about justice.

Newer therapies, like JAK inhibitors, are often made harder to access for families due to the misclassification of the disease. This deepens health inequities and limits opportunities for those who need help most.

More than hair: Why holistic support matters

Treating alopecia areata effectively means more than writing a prescription. It requires a whole-person approach that addresses the mental, emotional and social effects of the disease. An approach that many insurers are starting to embrace in theory, but in practice, still have more work to do.

Teens living with alopecia often report feeling withdrawn from sports or social activities, avoid photos or endure bullying at school. That’s why effective insurance policies that break down barriers to treatment, along with support groups, school accommodations, peer mentorship and mental health care, are critical parts of the care journey.

Organizations like the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) offer essential resources for young people and their families, connecting them with community, educational tools and advocacy efforts that can help them reclaim control over their health and their story.

It’s not just hair — It’s so much more

It’s time to reclaim the truth about alopecia areata and rewrite the narrative. Alopecia areata is a legitimate medical condition that deserves serious attention, adequate insurance coverage and respect. Children living with this disease should not be left behind simply because their symptoms are misunderstood.

What can you do?

  • Refer to alopecia areata as an autoimmune disease, not a cosmetic issue, to help correct the way the disease is discussed.
  • Advocate for fair insurance coverage including the reclassification of alopecia areata as a medical condition so all patients, especially young people, can access FDA-approved treatments they need, when they need them.
  • Share mental health and social resources for teens navigating the stigma and emotional toll of hair loss.
  • Visit NAAF.org to access resources, connect with others and join the movement for equity in care.

For adolescents living with alopecia areata, it’s never just hair. It’s everything that comes with losing it, and everything they deserve in getting it back.