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Got holiday FOMO? 7 ways to stay healthy so you can enjoy the festive season

2024-12-12T11:01:00

(BPT) – Nobody wants to feel sick during the holiday season. From the hustle and bustle of office parties, school programs, holiday concerts, parades and gatherings with loved ones, the festivities are endless. But just as our calendars fill up, cold and flu season hits, creating a perfect storm of germs when we most want to stay healthy.

It’s enough to give anyone a serious case of holiday FOMO. It’s the “fear of missing out” on holiday parties, activities and celebrations because you’ve caught a bug.

Adorable child in overalls with wearing raindeer ears while he and his parents decorate the Christmas Tree.

Walgreens recently commissioned KRC Research to conduct a survey into holiday FOMO and found that if you’re feeling it, you’re not alone. According to the survey, 51% of Gen Z and 36% of millennials are worried they’ll miss a holiday event this year because of an unexpected illness, which isn’t surprising considering 70% of Gen Z and 54% of millennials have missed events in the past because they caught a bug.

Younger woman hugging her grandmother at a family gathering with other people and a Christmas tree in the background.

That’s why the vast majority of those two groups, 89% of Gen Z and 87% of millennials, plan to put additional effort into prioritizing their health and well-being this holiday season. In fact, one in five respondents of all ages reported they’re planning to adopt a full health and wellness routine during the holiday season this year.

Mother and small child curl up on the floor next to the Christmas tree with lights and packages all around.

Looking to navigate the germ gauntlet and stay healthy? The experts at Walgreens share seven tips to keep you well throughout the holidays.

Make sure your vaccines are up to date. Vaccines are the number one way to protect against respiratory illnesses and reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. And don’t be afraid to double or triple up! Walgreens makes it simple for you and your family to get all the vaccines you need in one visit, and is offering flu, COVID-19, RSV and pneumonia (pneumococcal) vaccination appointments nationwide.1 Walk in to your local pharmacy, use the Walgreens app, visit Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine or call 1-800-WALGREENS.

Eat right. Sticking to a healthy, balanced diet at this time of year can seem like a holiday miracle with all the deliciousness available at every turn. You don’t have to forgo all the sweet treats and savory dishes. Indulge a little! Just make sure you’re balancing it with healthy salads, veggies, fruits, protein and fiber.

Consider if supplements are right for you. Vitamin D and Vitamin C can help boost your immune system and a good probiotic can help keep your gut healthy, which helps with holiday overindulgence and can be an immune system boost. Confused about what to take? Your Walgreens pharmacist can offer guidance. They’re the experts in prescription and OTC drugs and supplements. Just ask! They’re happy to help.

Get enough sleep. A good night’s sleep seems to fix almost anything, right? Making sure you get enough rest helps your body ward off illness as well. Amid the festivities, try to prioritize your sleep so you’re ready to tackle the next day, whether it’s holiday shopping or attending your child’s school program. Consider self-care with products like Walgreens Lavender Epsom Salt, Walgreens Multipurpose Vibration Therapy Wrap or Walgreens Sleep Aid De-Stress Gummies to help unwind.

Manage stress. Not easy to do at any time of the year, nearly impossible around the holidays. Some easy ways to manage stress: Choose a theme for your holiday gift giving by getting everyone cozy pajamas and slippers, or family-friendly games, or even health and well-being essentials they can use year-round. That way you’ll have one-stop shopping and your list is slayed. Also cut down on running around doing errands. At Walgreens, you can pick up many of these gifts, holiday cards, wrapping paper, stocking stuffers, a new lipstick for your holiday party and all your prescriptions in one fell swoop. Customers may also take advantage of holiday shopping conveniences like Same Day Refill for eligible prescriptions, 30-minute in-store Pickup, or 1-hour Delivery all season long.2 One and done. Another stress buster? Exercise. Make some time for it, even if it’s just a walk on a snowy evening.

Stock up on OTC medications. If you or your family comes down with a bug despite your best efforts, having medications on hand can help you feel better faster without having to run to the store. Stock your medicine cabinet with cough syrup for you and the kids, antihistamines, mucus fighters, pain relievers and other OTC medications that can help ease your symptoms and shorten colds. Not sure what to get? Your Walgreens pharmacist can help in person or via Pharmacy Chat.

If you’re sick, stay home. Don’t risk passing your illness on to others. Stay home and curl up with a holiday movie and a cup of tea. If you suspect you have the flu or COVID-19, Walgreens offers an easy combination test for both, with results in 30 minutes or less.

Don’t miss out on the magic of the season because you’re feeling unwell. With a little planning and effort, you can keep yourself healthy to enjoy the holidays with friends and family.

[1] Vaccines subject to availability. State, age and health-related restrictions may apply.

[2] Exclusions and restrictions apply. See Walgreens.com for details.

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Self-flying AI drones are transforming warehouses and optimizing inventory management

2024-12-11T10:01:00

(BPT) – AI, drones, and e-commerce technology advancements, increasingly global supply chains, and today’s instant delivery expectations are changing the way businesses manage their inventory. To meet and exceed customer expectations and effectively control costs, business leaders must constantly improve the tracking and accounting of product at physical locations to ensure counts are synchronized across e-commerce sites, backend warehouse management, and accounting systems. It is becoming increasingly critical for revenue growth and cost management for any retail, manufacturing, or fulfillment business, that inventory optimization is achieved through accurate forecasting, inventory cycle counts, and removing manual processes from the work of warehouse and logistics staff.

One recent publicly listed company, ZenaTech (Nasdaq: Zena), and its subsidiary ZenaDrone are set to lead the charge for this innovation. Their indoor self-flying or autonomous drones are transforming the inventory management and stocktake process by doing more accurate full physical counts of inventory as frequently as on an hourly basis. They are also changing the face of decision-making and planning particularly for “available-to-promise” (ATP) or “capable-to-promise” (CTP) forecasting and leveraging machine learning and predictive tools to automate and bring accuracy that can further improve the entire process.

Inventory carrying costs (ICC) are so important for any business to manage as they can eat significantly into the bottom line. Not just the actual product or material storage, but the associated handling costs, insurance, taxes, shrinkage, depreciation — and the opportunity cost of having capital tied up in inventory. It is easy to see how quickly the costs of holding and storing unsold or work-in-process goods add up.

AI self-flying or autonomous drones are a modern way to help reduce ICC — while also improving inventory management, stocktaking, and verifying the physical goods in your warehouse or storage facility, they also minimize labor costs.

This is one company to watch that addresses these problems directly and has a great future ahead.

Upgrade and innovate your inventory systems

ZenaTech‘s ZenaDrone has developed the new IQ Nano, a 10×10-inch drone designed to perform regular and frequent inspections including bar code or RFID scanning, facility maintenance inspections, security monitoring, 3D indoor mapping and other applications in a warehouse or distribution facility.

The IQ Nano is designed for autonomous use with integrated sensors, high-quality cameras, data collection and analysis, and AI capabilities. Weighing just 3.3 pounds and with a flight time of up to 20 minutes before autonomously touching down and recharging using its automatic battery charging station, the IQ Nano is designed for hovering stability and safety, thanks to its built-in obstacle avoidance capabilities.

“The IQ Nano is a breakthrough technology that dramatically reduces the burden of inventory management in terms of both labor and cost,” said ZenaTech CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D. “This dramatically improves decision-making and efficient operations by being able to assess and manage physical inventory cost-effectively by the hour instead of once every quarter, as is often done. This easily results in inventory cost savings in millions of dollars per year for multi-warehouse facility customers.”

Transform your warehouse processes for a single facility or a network

Inventory management has become increasingly complex due to global facilities, information, and supply chains. According to Forrester research, omnichannel fulfillment across multiple stores, sales channels, and online marketplaces is a high or top priority for 94% of retailers. Ultimately, this is a much larger network than many traditional inventory management systems were designed to track and manage.

By adopting ZenaTech’s ZenaDrone solutions, warehouse facilities can improve their operations and more easily account for inventory in addition to optimizing costs, compliance, and financial reporting:

1. Reduce costs and eliminate manual processes: Move from occasional or regular quarterly/annual stocktakes, to continuous inventory data, ensuring more accuracy and efficiency across the enterprise. This will boost productivity and cost reduction by eliminating the need for time-consuming and tedious manual counts.

2. Improve safety in the warehouse: Drones can reduce the need to climb up ladders and reach top shelves or other hard-to-reach areas, dramatically reducing safety issues and improving safety compliance.

3. Improve inventory carrying costs: Better accuracy knowing what is sitting in inventory or work-in-process for better decision making to lower overall inventory costs.

4. Instant identification of misplaced items: Swiftly identify and rectify misplaced pallets, boxes, and SKUs, streamlining picking, replenishment, and shipment processes.

5. Optimized goods tracking: Always know the exact location of goods, minimizing search times and maximizing resource utilization plus synchronizing with accounting systems.

Learn more ways this cutting-edge drone technology can improve your warehouse and logistic business at ZenaDrone.com. To learn more about investing in the next generation of drone solutions, visit ZenaTech.com.

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Get the Facts about Enlarged Prostate

2024-12-11T15:05:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Boston Scientific

Enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects about 50% of men by age 60 and up to 90% of men by age 85.1 As men age, the prostate can grow from the size of a walnut to about the size of a lemon, placing pressure on the urethra and obstructing the flow of urine.1 While enlarged prostate (BPH) can be a burdensome condition, it is non-cancerous and there are several treatment options available.2

Comparison image between a normal and enlarged prostate

What are the early signs of enlarged prostate and common symptoms?

Symptoms of enlarged prostate vary and tend to worsen over time. Common symptoms of enlarged prostate include frequent and urgent urination, trouble starting a urine stream, urinary retention, urinary incontinence and more.2 Interestingly, the size of the prostate doesn’t always determine how serious symptoms are. For instance, some men with slightly enlarged prostates can experience major symptoms, while others with very enlarged prostates can experience minor symptoms.3 Less frequent but serious symptoms to watch out for include urinary tract infection, not being able to pee and blood in the urine.3

Is there a way to treat enlarged prostate? What are some common treatment options?

It is important to discuss treatment options with a health care provider as soon as symptoms begin.3 While there isn’t a cure for enlarged prostate, a range of treatment approaches can help alleviate symptoms, including:

  • Watch and wait: Closely monitoring the condition is the first consideration for most men presenting with early signs of enlarged prostate. Some men will also turn to behavioral modifications such as drinking less caffeine to avoid worsening symptoms.4
  • Medication: Another way of treating enlarged prostate is through commonly prescribed medications that can relax the tension on your urethra making it easier to urinate. Other medications block hormones, which in turn can slow the growth of the prostate gland.5
  • Surgery: In instances where medications are ineffective or patients wish to avoid daily pills and their associated side effects, symptoms are severe or complications arise, health care providers may recommend surgery to remove the tissue around the urethra or widen the urethra itself.5

Are there alternatives to surgery?

For those who want to avoid surgery, there are minimally-invasive treatment options, like Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy — a short, in-office procedure requiring no general anesthesia.6 The procedure uses water vapor, or steam, to remove obstructive prostate tissue over time — helping reduce the symptoms of BPH.7

Most patients return to their regular activities within a few days and see improvement in their symptoms over a few weeks. Research has also shown that Rezūm provides patients with significant and sustained BPH symptom relief through 5 years.6

Illustration of prostate before

Illustration of prostate during

Illustration of prostate after


Graphic depicts how Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy affects the prostate.

To learn more about Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy and to find a doctor near you, please visit https://www.rezum.com/find-a-doctor.html/.

As with any medical treatment, there are some risks which include painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, decrease in ejaculatory volume, urinary tract infection (UTI), inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder and urgent need to urinate. Visit Rezum.com for a complete list of risks and talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with Rezūm.

Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

All treatments have inherent and associated risks. The Rezūm System is intended to relieve symptoms, obstructions and reduce prostate tissue associated with BPH. It is indicated for men ≥ 50 years of age with a prostate volume 30cm3 ≤ 80cm3. The Rezūm System is also indicated for treatment of prostate with hyperplasia of the central zone and/or a median lobe. Potential risks include but are not limited to painful urination (dysuria), blood in the urine (hematuria), blood in the semen (hematospermia), decrease in ejaculatory volume, suspected urinary tract infection (UTI), and urinary frequency, retention or urgency. You should talk with your doctor about benefits and risks before moving forward with any treatment option.

All images are the property of Boston Scientific. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

References

1. Harvard Health. The growing problem of an enlarged prostate gland. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/the-growing-problem-of-an-enlarged-prostate-gland. Accessed December 2024.

2. Health Information. Urologic Diseases. Prostate Problems. Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems/prostate-enlargement-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia#benign. Accessed December 2024.

3. Diseases & Conditions. Symptoms & causes. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087. Accessed December 2024.

4. UpToDate. Patient education: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Beyond the Basics). Available at: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-bph-beyond-the-basics. Accessed December 2024.

5. Diseases & Conditions. Diagnosis & treatment. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093. Accessed December 2024.

6. McVary KT, Gittelman MC, Goldberg KA, et al. Final 5-year outcomes of the multicenter randomized sham-controlled trial of Rezūm water vapor thermal therapy for treatment of moderate-to-severe lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2021 Sep;206(3):715-24.

7. McVary KT, Gange SN, Gittelman MC, et al. Minimally invasive prostate convective water vapor energy (WAVE) ablation: A multicenter, randomized, controlled study for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2016 May;195(5):1529-38.

Get the Facts about Enlarged Prostate
(BPT) – Sponsored by Boston Scientific
Enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects about 50% of men by age 60 and up to 90% of men by age 85. 1 As men age, the prostate can grow from the size of a walnut to about the size of a lemon, placing pressure on the urethra and obstructing the flow of urine. 1 While enlarged prostate (BPH) can be a burdensome condition, it is non-cancerous and there are several treatment options available. 2
What are the early signs of enlarged prostate and common symptoms?
Symptoms of enlarged prostate vary and tend to worsen over time. Common symptoms of enlarged prostate include frequent and urgent urination, trouble starting a urine stream, urinary retention, urinary incontinence and more. 2 Interestingly, the size of the prostate doesn’t always determine how serious symptoms are. For instance, some men with slightly enlarged prostates can experience major symptoms, while others with very enlarged prostates can experience minor symptoms. 3 Less frequent but serious symptoms to watch out for include urinary tract infection, not being able to pee and blood in the urine. 3
Is there a way to treat enlarged prostate? What are some common treatment options?
It is important to discuss treatment options with a health care provider as soon as symptoms begin. 3 While there isn’t a cure for enlarged prostate, a range of treatment approaches can help alleviate symptoms, including:
• Watch and wait: Closely monitoring the condition is the first consideration for most men presenting with early signs of enlarged prostate. Some men will also turn to behavioral modifications such as drinking less caffeine to avoid worsening symptoms. 4
• Medication: Another way of treating enlarged prostate is through commonly prescribed medications that can relax the tension on your urethra making it easier to urinate. Other medications block hormones, which in turn can slow the growth of the prostate gland. 5
• Surgery: In instances where medications are ineffective or patients wish to avoid daily pills and their associated side effects, symptoms are severe or complications arise, health care providers may recommend surgery to remove the tissue around the urethra or widen the urethra itself. 5
Are there alternatives to surgery?
For those who want to avoid surgery, there are minimally-invasive treatment options, like Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy — a short, in-office procedure requiring no general anesthesia. 6 The procedure uses water vapor, or steam, to remove obstructive prostate tissue over time — helping reduce the symptoms of BPH. 7
Most patients return to their regular activities within a few days and see improvement in their symptoms over a few weeks. Research has also shown that Rezūm provides patients with significant and sustained BPH symptom relief through 5 years. 6
Graphic depicts how Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy affects the prostate.
To learn more about Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy and to find a doctor near you, please visit https://www.rezum.com/find-a-doctor.html/.
As with any medical treatment, there are some risks which include painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, decrease in ejaculatory volume, urinary tract infection (UTI), inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder and urgent need to urinate. Visit Rezum.com for a complete list of risks and talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with Rezūm.
Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
All treatments have inherent and associated risks. The Rezūm System is intended to relieve symptoms, obstructions and reduce prostate tissue associated with BPH. It is indicated for men ≥ 50 years of age with a prostate volume 30cm3 ≤ 80cm3. The Rezūm System is also indicated for treatment of prostate with hyperplasia of the central zone and/or a median lobe. Potential risks include but are not limited to painful urination (dysuria), blood in the urine (hematuria), blood in the semen (hematospermia), decrease in ejaculatory volume, suspected urinary tract infection (UTI), and urinary frequency, retention or urgency. You should talk with your doctor about benefits and risks before moving forward with any treatment option.
All images are the property of Boston Scientific. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
References
1. Harvard Health. The growing problem of an enlarged prostate gland. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/the-growing-problem-of-an-enlarged-prostate-gland. Accessed December 2024.
2. Health Information. Urologic Diseases. Prostate Problems. Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems/prostate-enlargement-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia#benign. Accessed December 2024.
3. Diseases & Conditions. Symptoms & causes. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087. Accessed December 2024.
4. UpToDate. Patient education: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Beyond the Basics). Available at: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-bph-beyond-the-basics. Accessed December 2024.
5. Diseases & Conditions. Diagnosis & treatment. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093. Accessed December 2024.
6. McVary KT, Gittelman MC, Goldberg KA, et al. Final 5-year outcomes of the multicenter randomized sham-controlled trial of Rezūm water vapor thermal therapy for treatment of moderate-to-severe lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2021 Sep;206(3):715-24.
7. McVary KT, Gange SN, Gittelman MC, et al. Minimally invasive prostate convective water vapor energy (WAVE) ablation: A multicenter, randomized, controlled study for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2016 May;195(5):1529-38.
Get the Facts about Enlarged Prostate
(BPT) – Sponsored by Boston Scientific
Enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects about 50% of men by age 60 and up to 90% of men by age 85. 1 As men age, the prostate can grow from the size of a walnut to about the size of a lemon, placing pressure on the urethra and obstructing the flow of urine. 1 While enlarged prostate (BPH) can be a burdensome condition, it is non-cancerous and there are several treatment options available. 2
What are the early signs of enlarged prostate and common symptoms?
Symptoms of enlarged prostate vary and tend to worsen over time. Common symptoms of enlarged prostate include frequent and urgent urination, trouble starting a urine stream, urinary retention, urinary incontinence and more. 2 Interestingly, the size of the prostate doesn’t always determine how serious symptoms are. For instance, some men with slightly enlarged prostates can experience major symptoms, while others with very enlarged prostates can experience minor symptoms. 3 Less frequent but serious symptoms to watch out for include urinary tract infection, not being able to pee and blood in the urine. 3
Is there a way to treat enlarged prostate? What are some common treatment options?
It is important to discuss treatment options with a health care provider as soon as symptoms begin. 3 While there isn’t a cure for enlarged prostate, a range of treatment approaches can help alleviate symptoms, including:
• Watch and wait: Closely monitoring the condition is the first consideration for most men presenting with early signs of enlarged prostate. Some men will also turn to behavioral modifications such as drinking less caffeine to avoid worsening symptoms. 4
• Medication: Another way of treating enlarged prostate is through commonly prescribed medications that can relax the tension on your urethra making it easier to urinate. Other medications block hormones, which in turn can slow the growth of the prostate gland. 5
• Surgery: In instances where medications are ineffective or patients wish to avoid daily pills and their associated side effects, symptoms are severe or complications arise, health care providers may recommend surgery to remove the tissue around the urethra or widen the urethra itself. 5
Are there alternatives to surgery?
For those who want to avoid surgery, there are minimally-invasive treatment options, like Rezūm™ Water Vapor Therapy — a short, in-office procedure requiring no general anesthesia. 6 The procedure uses water vapor, or steam, to remove obstructive prostate tissue over time — helping reduce the symptoms of BPH. 7
Most patients return to their regular activities within a few days and see improvement in their symptoms over a few weeks. Research has also shown that Rezūm provides patients with significant and sustained BPH symptom relief through 5 years. 6
Graphic depicts how Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy affects the prostate.
To learn more about Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy and to find a doctor near you, please visit https://www.rezum.com/find-a-doctor.html/.
As with any medical treatment, there are some risks which include painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, decrease in ejaculatory volume, urinary tract infection (UTI), inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder and urgent need to urinate. Visit Rezum.com for a complete list of risks and talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with Rezūm.
Caution: U.S. Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.
All treatments have inherent and associated risks. The Rezūm System is intended to relieve symptoms, obstructions and reduce prostate tissue associated with BPH. It is indicated for men ≥ 50 years of age with a prostate volume 30cm3 ≤ 80cm3. The Rezūm System is also indicated for treatment of prostate with hyperplasia of the central zone and/or a median lobe. Potential risks include but are not limited to painful urination (dysuria), blood in the urine (hematuria), blood in the semen (hematospermia), decrease in ejaculatory volume, suspected urinary tract infection (UTI), and urinary frequency, retention or urgency. You should talk with your doctor about benefits and risks before moving forward with any treatment option.
All images are the property of Boston Scientific. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
References
1. Harvard Health. The growing problem of an enlarged prostate gland. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/the-growing-problem-of-an-enlarged-prostate-gland. Accessed December 2024.
2. Health Information. Urologic Diseases. Prostate Problems. Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems/prostate-enlargement-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia#benign. Accessed December 2024.
3. Diseases & Conditions. Symptoms & causes. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/symptoms-causes/syc-20370087. Accessed December 2024.
4. UpToDate. Patient education: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (Beyond the Basics). Available at: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-bph-beyond-the-basics. Accessed December 2024.
5. Diseases & Conditions. Diagnosis & treatment. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093. Accessed December 2024.
6. McVary KT, Gittelman MC, Goldberg KA, et al. Final 5-year outcomes of the multicenter randomized sham-controlled trial of Rezūm water vapor thermal therapy for treatment of moderate-to-severe lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2021 Sep;206(3):715-24.
7. McVary KT, Gange SN, Gittelman MC, et al. Minimally invasive prostate convective water vapor energy (WAVE) ablation: A multicenter, randomized, controlled study for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2016 May;195(5):1529-38.

Posted on

Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy: A Closer Look at Symptoms, Diagnosis and Clinical Research Underway

2024-12-11T16:19:00

(BPT) – This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting movement and posture that begins in early childhood development. It is the most common cause of motor disability in children, affecting about one in 345 children in the United States.1-2 It may happen as a result of lack of oxygen during or around birth, stroke, infection, a problem with metabolism or other problems that cause injury or affect the development of parts of the brain involved in movement control in the first few years of life.3 CP is a permanent condition, affecting a person for their entire life.

People living with CP typically have motor problems, which may include spasticity (abnormal muscle tightness), dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements) or ataxia (poor muscle control), and many people have a mix of these motor disorders.4 Dyskinesia due to CP (DCP) is one of the most disabling forms of CP and impacts approximately 10% to 20% of people living with CP.5-6

According to the Cerebral Palsy Foundation (CPF), the combination of irregular and unpredictable movements (chorea) and twisting and repeating movements (dystonia) often disrupt activities and cause significant functional impairment, including the ability to maintain balance, walk or fine motor control.7 Heather Riordan, M.D., Neurologist and Movement Disorders Specialist, Director of the Phelps Center for Cerebral Palsy at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, discusses the symptoms of chorea and impact on patients in a video shared on the CPF website here.

About 30% of people with DCP are affected mostly by these involuntary and irregular movements (chorea), while dystonia is the predominant motor finding in the remaining 70%.8 However, it is common for both chorea and dystonia movements to be present together.6

For people living with DCP, these movements can occur in any region of the body, including the arms and legs, torso and face and may vary in severity. They are often triggered or made worse by stimulation or stress. Because dyskinesia can occur at rest and/or when actively using the body, the problems with movement are very burdensome in day-to-day living, with discomfort and pain affecting the quality of life for people and their caregivers.9

Jen Lyman, mom to a son with DCP, highlights how dyskinesia makes communicating more difficult. “The most difficult thing about dyskinesia is watching my son struggle to do things that he wants to do, but the extra movements get in the way…special things, such as using a touch screen to video chat with his grandmother, are nearly impossible despite his best efforts to use his hands and fingers. Something so simple, yet so special for him should be effortless.”

DCP has a wide-ranging impact on the individual, including lifelong challenges with movement, a higher risk of other medical issues, a higher rate of mental health challenges and difficulties with communication.10-12

“Those of us who have the privilege to serve patients with dyskinetic, hyperkinetic or mixed cerebral palsy see the functional impact of this very challenging type of tone every day,” said Susan Biffl, M.D., Rehabilitation Medicine Specialist at Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego and Assistant Professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine. “Patients face challenges with self-care, independence, mobility, communication, fine motor skills that affect occupational and recreational activities, swallowing, social interactions and even sleep. As this tone is variable, it is much more challenging to treat than more consistent tone issues, such as spasticity.”

Treatment Options

There are currently no Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments for DCP. Dystonia and chorea are often managed separately as they respond differently to various treatments, which can make treatment challenging.3 Most drugs being investigated for DCP have focused on dystonia, and more research is needed to determine potential treatments for chorea. New treatment options are needed to help manage these movement disorders and improve daily function and quality of life for those affected.

“After 20 years of caring for individuals with cerebral palsy, I continue to find those with dyskinetic cerebral palsy among the most challenging to treat, largely due to the limited effectiveness of available pharmacologic options,” said Joyce Oleszek, M.D., Professor, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine. “There is an urgent need for more robust evidence to support pharmacologic treatments for this condition, given its profound impact on function, comfort and quality of life.”

Ongoing Research

Clinical studies are important in the development of treatment options, allowing researchers to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new medicines. The data from clinical studies are used to determine if an investigational treatment can be approved for use to treat certain disorders.

There are ongoing clinical studies evaluating potential treatments for DCP, including one for chorea. Neurocrine Biosciences is conducting the KINECT®-DCP clinical study, a Phase 3, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study investigating the study drug, valbenazine, for the treatment of DCP. The clinical study is currently enrolling children, adolescents and adults six to 70 years of age who have been diagnosed with DCP.

“The Cerebral Palsy Foundation is excited to partner with Neurocrine Biosciences on this study,” said Rachel Byrne, Executive Director of the Cerebral Palsy Foundation. “We are proud to support strong research that can potentially bring meaningful change to the lives of those living with cerebral palsy.”

If you or someone you know may be eligible for this research study, please visit the study website for additional information here: FindADCPStudy.com.

REFERENCES

  1. Krigger KW. Cerebral palsy: a review. Am Fam Physician. 2006;73(1):91-100.
  2. Michael-Asalu A, Taylor G, Campbell H, Lelea LL, Kirby RS. Cerebral palsy: diagnosis, epidemiology, genetics, and clinical update. Adv Pediatr2019;66:189-208. doi:10.1016/j.yapd.2019.04.002
  3. Monbaliu E, Himmelmann K, Lin JP, et al. Clinical presentation and management of dyskinetic cerebral palsy. Lancet Neurol. 2017;16(9):741-749. doi:10.1016/S1474-4422(17)30252-1
  4. Christine C, Dolk H, Platt MJ, Colver A, Prasauskiene A, Krägeloh-Mann I; SCPE Collaborative Group. Recommendations from the SCPE collaborative group for defining and classifying cerebral palsy. Dev Med Child Neurol Suppl. 2007;109:35-38. doi:10.1111/j.1469-8749.2007.tb12626.x
  5. Lumsden DE, Crowe B, Basu A, et al. Pharmacological management of abnormal tone and movement in cerebral palsy. Arch Dis Child. 2019;104(8):775-780. doi:10.1136/archdischild-2018-316309
  6. Monbaliu E, de Cock P, Ortibus E, Heyrman L, Klingels K, Feys H. Clinical patterns of dystonia and choreoathetosis in participants with dyskinetic cerebral palsy. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2016;58(2):138-144. doi:10.1111/dmcn.12846
  7. Dyskinetic cerebral palsy. Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Published December 20, 2022. Accessed October 29, 2024. https://cpresource.org/understanding-cerebral-palsy/types-cerebral-palsy/dyskinetic-cerebral-palsy
  8. Himmelmann K, Hagberg G, Wiklund LM, Eek MN, Uvebrant P. Dyskinetic cerebral palsy: a population-based study of children born between 1991 and 1998. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2007;49(4):246-251. doi:10.1111/j.1469-8749.2007.00246.x
  9. Masson R, Pagliano E, Baranello G. Efficacy of oral pharmacological treatments in dyskinetic cerebral palsy: a systematic review. Dev Med Child Neurol. 2017; 59:1237-1248. doi:10.1111/dmcn.13532
  10. What is cerebral palsy? Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://cpresource.org/topic/what-cerebral-palsy
  11. Adults & adolescence. Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://cpresource.org/topic/adults
  12. Communication. Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://cpresource.org/topic/communication

© 2024 Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. All Rights Reserved. CAP-NBI-US-0115 12/2024
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Why Quality Control Matters to Pet Food Safety and the Planet

2024-12-11T09:07:00

(BPT) – When you pick up a bag of pet food from the store or click “add to cart” online, you deserve peace of mind knowing that the product you are buying is a safe and high-quality food.

At Purina, this commitment to safety and quality is at the heart of everything the company does. With millions of pets in the U.S. enjoying Purina products, the company is as committed to safety as it is devoted to pet health and the opportunity to enrich the lives of pets and the people who love them.

The science behind peace of mind

Purina is dedicated to ensuring that every pet food product meets its high standards of quality and safety. To support this mission, nearly 500 scientists, veterinarians and pet nutrition experts work to innovate and improve formulations, helping pets lead longer, healthier lives. But science is just one part of the equation. Manufacturing teams conduct 100,000 quality checks every day across its operations using a 7-step process to ensure that Purina’s stringent standards are met.

100,000 daily quality checks

Rather than relying solely on suppliers’ assurances, Purina goes the extra mile, conducting its own audits and sampling to verify quality directly from the source. By doing this, Purina helps to ensure that the company’s strict standards are upheld.

Manufacturing with precision

Every batch of pet food is carefully monitored to ensure that the correct proportions of ingredients are used, adhering to expert-developed recipes. Additionally, at multiple points throughout the production process, samples are taken and analyzed to ensure that pets receive complete and balanced meals that support their nutritional needs and life stage.

Made in the U.S.A. in Purina-owned factories

Factory team members help ensure that packages are filled correctly and labeled with a unique code that allows Purina to track everything back to its source. Because 99% of Purina’s products are crafted in the U.S. at one of its 23 factories, every aspect of the 7-step process can be watched closely. Direct oversight into every batch of pet food means Purina knows exactly when and where it was made and where it’s going.

Helping care for the planet

Purina is not only committed to pet health and safety but also to environmental sustainability. When sourcing ingredients and packaging materials, Purina is mindful of the environmental impact.

Purina does this by supporting farmers as they transition to regenerative agriculture practices to improve soil health and ultimately increase soil organic matter, which helps to sequester carbon.

Another way Purina cares for the environment is through their efforts to reduce water consumption in factories and continually assess process improvements throughout its business and manufacturing operations.

Through strategic partnerships, Purina has invested in wind and solar power to achieve 100% renewable electricity across all its facilities within North America.

Purina’s mission is built on providing high-quality, nutritious food for pets while being responsible stewards of the environment. Rigorous processes and unwavering commitment help ensure that pet owners can feel confident in their choice, knowing they’re providing the very best for their beloved companions.

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Inspire your child’s curiosity during the next snow day

2024-12-11T07:43:00

(BPT) – Winter weather brings with it numerous activities that inspire curiosity in adults and children alike. In fact, many snow day activities can even help with child development. As snowflakes begin to fall in several states across the country, parents can use this time as an opportunity to ignite their child’s curious mind and engage their imaginations.

“The winter season is a time when we see children’s curiosity soar, especially when snow is involved,” said Joy Turner, vice president of education at Kiddie Academy® Educational Child Care. “Snow days are an excellent opportunity for children to engage in play that isn’t always available to them. Not only can parents encourage their child to experience and appreciate nature, but they can also take time to teach them about snowflakes, the different seasons, how snow is formed and more.”

Kiddie Academy encourages parents to make the most of their child’s next snow day. Here are a few activities to consider:

1. Take a nature walk. Observe and discuss the quiet that descends over newly fallen snow, look for animal tracks and try to identify what animal left them, or count the number of icicles hanging from roofs. Let your child’s curiosity guide your outdoor exploration.

2. Create winter bird feeders. Cover pinecones in nut or seed butter and roll them in birdseed. String the pinecones on pieces of yarn and then hang them on a tree outside near a window with a good view. Together with your child, watch as birds of many sizes and colors enjoy the treat, taking time to call out observations about each bird that stops by.

3. Make a heartwarming soup. Talk about the origins of the recipe and explain how all the flavors and ingredients mix to create a tasty meal. Let your child ask questions about the cooking process and encourage them to help with tasks like washing veggies, and measuring and combining ingredients.

4. Engage in pretend play. Act out different arctic animals like polar bears, penguins and seals. This is an opportunity to introduce different animals to your child and teach them about various habitats. Wherever this play goes, leave it unstructured and let your child’s imagination lead them.

5. Invent a snowflake matching game. Together with your child, clip symmetrical snowflakes out of paper and cut them in half. Explore how every snowflake is different, just like each person. Depending on the age and ability of your child, help them cut shapes out of paper that’s been folded into a triangle. When you unfold it, the snowflake will have a unique, symmetrical design. Cut each snowflake in half and then work with your child to match the snowflake pieces.

Snow days are an excellent way to encourage your child’s curiosity and make lasting memories. Next time you see snow in the weather forecast, take it as an opportunity to get creative with your little one.

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Hassle-Free Holiday Gifts for Last-Minute Shoppers

2024-12-11T09:49:00

(BPT) – The most wonderful time of the year is here, and with it comes the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Between juggling year-end deadlines and festive celebrations, many families are managing to-do lists as long as Santa’s. And if you’re in the habit of last-minute shopping, it’s easy to feel like you’re on the naughty list as you dash through the aisles.

If you’re looking for an easy, affordable way to put a bow on your shopping list, Walmart can take the hassle out of the holiday hustle. From simplifying stocking stuffers with this one-click stocking bundle to launching a new GenAI tool that delivers a highly personalized holiday shopping experience, Walmart can help you find the perfect gift — even for the hardest-to-shop-for person. Check out the gift inspiration below to wrap up the season stress-free and full of smiles.

Unwrap the fun with Walmart’s Top Toys List

If you’re looking for an easy way to shop for the kids in your life, look no further than Walmart’s annual Top Toy List. This year’s list features 66 of the season’s top trending toys, featuring fan favorites from beloved brands and franchises like Disney, LEGO, Hot Wheels and Barbie. This year’s list includes must-have Walmart exclusives like the Star Wars Force N Telling Vader Child Action Figure, Little Tikes Creative Chefs Kits, LEGO Speed Champions Aston Martin Set and more.

The best part? In the spirit of Every Day Low Prices, Walmart is making it easy to shop the season’s hottest toys at unbeatable prices, with 25 of the toys on this year’s list available for under $25.

Gifts wired for success

When you’re down to the wire, tech gifts can be easily plugged into any holiday shopping list. Whether you’re shopping for a gadget lover or gaming enthusiast, Walmart’s private brand onn. offers a variety of different affordable essentials. The onn. Google TV Full HD Streaming Device brings your favorite movies, shows and streaming services right to your living room screen, while the onn. 11″ Tablet Pro offers powerful performance on the go. Gamers will love this vibrant onn. Gaming Keyboard and onn. Gaming Mouse, designed to elevate any gaming setup.

Show-stopping holiday looks

Looking to add a little glam to your holiday shopping list? Walmart has a variety of stylish gifts that won’t break the bank. From rhinestone ballet flats to metallic cargo pants from No Boundaries — all for under $25 — you’ll find fabulous fits for the fashionista on your list. You can also never go wrong with the timeless collections from Free Assembly and Scoop. Walmart also has trending beauty items like the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask and festive Grinch Eyeshadow palette for less than $20. Plus, don’t miss the luxury-inspired beauty picks from Pretty Smart for under $20.

If you’re dashing for last-minute deals, Walmart has you covered all season long with flexible and convenient shipping, delivery and pickup options to help you sleigh your shopping list.

  • Order by 12:30 p.m. local time on December 23 for delivery on December 25
    • This year, customers now have two more days to shop for gifts for delivery with extended cutoffs for next day and two-day shipping.
  • Express Delivery is available until 6 p.m. local time on December 24
    • Walmart’s Express Delivery brings orders to doorsteps in as soon as 30 minutes.
    • And don’t forget this ultimate holiday lifesaver: if you’re a paid Walmart+ member, you’re eligible for one free Express Delivery through December 31.
  • Order by 12 p.m. (noon) local time on December 24 for in-store same-day pickup and delivery
    • For last-minute gifts and grocery runs, customers can swing by more than 4,000 stores for easy in-store or curbside pickup. They can also choose to have items delivered to their homes with expanded delivery timeslots as early as 6 a.m. and as late as midnight.

For more gift inspiration for everyone on your list, visit walmart.com.

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Unwrapping Financial Lessons This Holiday Season

2024-12-11T10:35:00

(BPT) – By Mary Hines Droesch, Head of Consumer, Small Business & Wealth Management Banking and Lending Products at Bank of America

As a kid, there’s nothing quite like tearing open holiday gift boxes to find the latest gadgets, games and toys. But there’s another gift, less often discussed, that can benefit your child all the way into adulthood — financial literacy.

Bank of America found that only 47% of college students feel financially prepared for the real world. Why not take the opportunity to start preparing them at a young age by sharing financial lessons with your kids throughout the holiday season? After all, winter festivities present many teachable moments to help them become more financially savvy rather than getting caught up in the temptation to overspend.

Whether it’s budgeting for holiday gifts for loved ones, baking holiday cookies or taking time to give back to a local organization — this season provides plenty of opportunities to help your children develop the skills to manage money with confidence. Here are a few ways you can wrap up the gift of financial literacy for your kids this holiday season:

  1. Incorporate financial lessons into holiday festivities. With all of the festive activities on your to-do list, there are many natural opportunities to start money conversations with your children. For example, consider giving your child a set budget to plan a holiday activity for the family — whether it’s decorating gingerbread houses or having a hot chocolate and movie night. By setting a spending limit, you encourage them to think through costs and make decisions, providing valuable experience in budgeting, planning and responsibility.
  2. Prepare for cash gifts by opening a bank account. If your child opens an envelope to find a check or cash from relatives, it can be a wonderful opportunity to teach them how to manage those funds. Opening a bank account for your child provides a place for you to deposit the funds, to keep track of balances, and help them avoid the temptation to spend immediately. For example, SafeBalance Banking® for Family Banking is a convenient, digital bank account that gives parents the tools and resources needed to help their children practice healthy financial habits and learn to responsibly manage their money. Parents also have access to Better Money Habits educational content to help facilitate conversations with their children about financial literacy. A bank account gives your child a sense of ownership and accountability over money, setting the foundation for future financial independence.
  3. Give back to the community. Beyond putting gift money into a bank account, you can also encourage your child to allocate a portion of their funds toward a cause they care about. This can be a powerful lesson in budgeting and prioritizing, as well as the value of giving back. Involve your kid in the decision-making process so they’re empowered to be more compassionate and mindful with their finances. Alternatively, volunteering time as a family can also serve as a reminder that the holidays are just as much about giving as receiving!
  4. Practice spending with their own debit card. If your child has already built a strong foundation of responsible financial habits — consider giving your child their first debit card so they can purchase gifts for their family members. Bank of America’s SafeBalance Banking® for Family Banking not only offers an option to provide your child with a debit card, but also allows parents to easily monitor and set spending limits on the child’s card. Helping your child navigate their first debit card provides them with hands-on experience to manage money and practice responsible spending. They will also feel more excited having bought their family members’ presents on their own!

Although the gift of financial literacy might not seem as ‘shiny’ as a new gaming console or this season’s trendiest water bottle, finding teachable money moments with your kids this holiday season is a worthwhile investment in their future success and independence.

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Looking for a unique gift idea? 5 ways to give the gift of learning

2024-12-11T11:01:00

(BPT) – As the holidays approach, gift giving can be a thoughtful way to spread the holiday spirit and let a loved one know you are thinking of them. While there are many unique gift ideas, there is one type of gift giving that is often overlooked — the gift of learning.

Winter break is a great time for high school students to think about the future of their academic career and what they can do to get ahead of the curve. With a wide range of flexible options available to students today, the opportunities to support learners are endless. If you know a student that would benefit from the gift of knowledge, here are some unique ideas for this holiday season.

1. Help them excel in a language

High school students tend to spend a lot of time on their phones. Why not buy them an app that will help them learn a new language? You can choose from several language learning apps that let students learn at their own pace and reward them for their progress. Many of these apps offer various ways to learn such as structured lessons, fun games and immersive language videos.

2. Introduce them to Sophia courses

If your learner is interested in a self-paced option, consider purchasing them a subscription to Sophia to grant them access to 60+ courses that are designed to transfer to 70+ partner colleges. With Sophia, high school students can knock out college-level courses in a 100% online and flexible environment that allows them to jumpstart their postsecondary education.

3. Pay for a workshop in your student’s field of interest

Workshops can help students to learn about a specific field of interest before committing to a course/program. Workshops are typically short-term classes aimed at teaching practical skills and introducing attendees to new concepts that allow them to learn something new without taking up too much of their time.

4. Help pay for their AP exams

Designed to offer high school students the opportunity to earn college credits in a classroom setting, AP courses are a great option for enhancing a student’s learning. If your learner is planning to enroll in these courses, consider pitching in on the cost of their exams to ensure that they’re set to succeed.

5. Buy them a magazine/book service subscription

Is your learner interested in learning about a wide range of subjects? If so, gifting them a book/magazine subscription service may be the right gift this holiday season. In doing so, you’ll allow your learner to have access to a wide range of topics that expand their knowledge.

The holiday season is a time for giving, and gifting knowledge can play a key role in empowering students to learn new skills. With the options outlined above, you can help a learner in your life achieve their academic goals and get a head start on their education as we enter the new year.

Interested in giving the gift of knowledge this holiday season? Explore options with Sophia.

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3 Ways Creators Can Uplevel Their Game

2024-12-10T13:15:00

(BPT) – The creator economy has revolutionized the way individuals monetize their content, skills and passions. To thrive in this dynamic landscape, creators must adopt strategies that enhance productivity, streamline financial management and foster engagement.

There are more than 50 million artists, musicians and creators who are publishing content full or part time[1]. But creators face the same challenges as small and medium-size businesses: macroeconomic uncertainty, lack of timely access to working capital and competition from established players. To overcome growth hurdles, Visa recognizes creators as small businesses, unlocking access to Visa solutions that will help them grow with ease. Here are three pivotal tips for success in the creator economy.

Get Paid Faster to Help Cash Flow

Break free from slow payouts hindering growth. Many leading social platforms now offer real-time payments to creators. This means creators spend less time waiting for their earnings, improving cash flow and reducing reliance on pending transactions. Yet more than two-thirds of creators cite slow payments as a barrier to growth.

Fast access to earnings also enables creators to make timely financial decisions, invest in growth opportunities and manage expenses effectively. Visa Direct is addressing slow payouts through collaborating with social media networks and marketplaces to help creators get payouts in real-time[2] to their eligible card.

Utilize Small Business Tools for Streamlined Operations

Bridge the gap between creativity and commerce. Tools like project management software, accounting apps and social media schedulers automate tasks, freeing time for creative pursuits.

It’s not just social media tools that help creators grow — it’s also business tools built specifically for small businesses. Creators have not always had access to these financial products and solutions, but that is changing. Acknowledging the impact of creators on the digital economy, Visa is recognizing creators as small businesses. Creators can easily and securely pay and be paid with Visa’s products made available through its clients to small businesses worldwide.

“Creators drive the digital economy. We’re proud to empower their growth through financial inclusion,” says Jonathan Kolozsvary, Global Head of Small Business at Visa.

Utilizing business tools enhances credibility, ensures timely deliveries and maintains organized records for tax purposes and financial tracking.

Foster Authentic Engagement for Loyal Communities

Interacting genuinely with the audience builds trust and loyalty, encouraging consistent support and word-of-mouth promotion. Creators should leverage engagement metrics to glean valuable insights into audience preferences, guiding content creation and business strategy adjustments.

Another way creators can build authentic relationships is by brand differentiation — distinguish yourself from competitors, securing a loyal fanbase that advocates for their work.

By incorporating real-time[3] payments, leveraging small business tools and cultivating genuine audience connections, creators can solidify their presence, ensure financial stability and drive sustainable growth within the creator economy. Join Visa’s creator-focused initiative. Explore how Visa is supporting this new wave of creators here.


[1] SignalFire “Creator Economy Market Map”

[2] Actual fund availability depends on receiving financial institution and region.

[3] Actual fund availability depends on receiving financial institution and region.