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How Techy are American Drivers?

2024-12-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – Technology is impacting every aspect of our lives — including our cars. And as technology reshapes the automotive industry, from the advancements in electric vehicles (EVs) to increasingly sophisticated safety features like blind-spot sensors and lane-keeping assistance, American drivers’ relationships with their vehicles are evolving in distinct ways. Hankook Tire’s latest Gauge Index Survey combines new data from 2024 findings with a decade of insights to reveal key trends shaping the modern driving experience, focusing on evolving perceptions of EVs, how car safety technology boosts confidence on the road, and consumers’ increasing confidence in vehicle maintenance.

Electric Vehicles Gain Traction

EVs are increasingly shaping the American automotive landscape as consumers’ attitudes continue to evolve. In its latest Gauge Index, Hankook reports that 20% of consumers plan to buy or lease an EV within the next year, a notable increase from only 8% in 2022. Millennials are leading this shift toward hybrid and EV ownership, with 36% considering a purchase in the future, followed closely by Gen X at 35% and Gen Z at 32%.

This surge in EV interest reflects growing environmental awareness, technological appeal, and a willingness among younger generations to embrace new forms of sustainable transportation. To address this shifting demand, tiremakers are developing new solutions to meet the specific performance and durability needs of electric vehicles, such as Hankook Tire’s iON line.

Despite growing interest, cost remains a significant hurdle for EV adoption. For 36% of respondents, price is the top reason for not yet making the switch. Concerns over affordability have long been a barrier. In fact, in 2021, only 26% of consumers associated EVs with affordability. However, there are signs that cost is becoming less of a barrier for many potential purchasers.

While gas savings historically attracted potential EV buyers, its influence is waning. The appeal of fuel savings dropped from 58% in 2022 to 36% in 2024, indicating that while these economic considerations still matter, consumers are becoming more motivated by other factors, such as technological advancements (10%) and environmental impact (18%).

Tech Enhances Perceived Safety

Advanced safety features such as blind-spot sensors, lane-keeping assist, and automatic braking are now a quintessential part of the driving experience, contributing to a sense of security on the road. Hankook’s survey reveals that 30% of Americans feel safer thanks to these technologies, though they also say these features don’t necessarily alter their driving behavior. For many, the presence of these aids may bring peace of mind, especially for individuals navigating congested urban environments or long highway stretches.

The perception of safety technology varies by gender, with women (26%) more likely to report feeling more cautious on the road compared to men due to these aids (17%). This suggests that safety technology might appeal differently based on individual driving styles and preferences, which is valuable information for automakers striving to address diverse consumer needs.

While these features offer an additional layer of confidence, drivers recognize that technology complements rather than replaces attentive driving. The combination of human skill and technology-driven support represents a balanced approach, one that highlights the crucial role technology plays in reducing stress for those who may otherwise feel apprehensive behind the wheel. Hankook reinforces this balance by engineering tires that seamlessly integrate with advanced safety systems, enhancing both reliability and peace of mind on the road. For example, the Hankook Weatherflex GT tire is designed to provide year-round control and confidence, performing exceptionally well in harsher weather conditions like snow and ice.

Confidence in Car Care on the Rise

As car technology has advanced, so too has the confidence of American drivers in maintaining their vehicles. Over the past decade, drivers have become more proficient in handling essential maintenance tasks, Hankook found. By 2024, 65% of Americans feel comfortable changing a tire, up from just 52% in 2015. Likewise, confidence in changing brake fluid has increased from 35% to 49% over the same period. This trend extends to other routine tasks as well, with significant increases in confidence seen for replacing air filters (61% from 53%), car batteries (64% from 51%), oil changes (58% from 45%), and even spark plugs (50% from 39%).

This boost in self-reliance isn’t just about handling maintenance tasks independently but also reflected in a broader commitment to timely vehicle care. Checking tire condition should be a regular part of any maintenance routine, as well-maintained tires are critical for safety and performance. In 2014, 33% of drivers admitted to delaying tire rotations until the last minute; that figure dropped to 20% by 2024. Similarly, instances of drivers delaying oil changes beyond recommended mileage decreased from 31% to 22%. These improvements suggest that Americans are taking vehicle care more seriously, potentially driven by a desire to extend vehicle lifespan and save on costly repairs. When tire replacements are needed, offerings such as Hankook’s annual rebates can help drivers keep this essential maintenance within budget.

A Roadmap for the Future

The convergence of these three trends reflects a broader shift in how Americans view and interact with car technology. Growing enthusiasm for EVs, despite cost challenges, demonstrates a readiness for cleaner, more advanced transportation. At the same time, safety technologies are boosting confidence on the road, especially among those who may otherwise feel cautious, while the rise in self-sufficiency in car maintenance suggests consumers are increasingly invested in their vehicles’ care.

The Hankook Tire Gauge Index offers actionable insights for drivers, dealers, and tiremakers alike to navigate these shifts. Together, these markers signal a promising future where American drivers not only embrace cutting-edge car tech but also take greater ownership of their automotive experience. As the industry continues to innovate, consumers can look forward to a driving landscape that is safer, more sustainable, and more empowering.

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Window replacement 101: 7 things homeowners should look for

2024-12-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – Is your home drafty? Are your windows sticking or hard to open and close? Do you get fogging between the windowpanes? Energy bills creeping higher and higher? These are all signs your windows may need to be replaced. It’s a major undertaking and can be a confusing one. You’ll find a wide array of styles, materials and more out there. How should you go about choosing the best windows for your home? It’s a combination of form and function, according to Kate Land, vice president — product and innovation at Cornerstone Building Brands — a leading manufacturer of exterior building products in North America, including Simonton® Windows & Doors.

black fram sliding window in modern style livingroom

“First and foremost, new windows need to be functional and easy to use,” said Land. “Beyond that, it’s about quality, durability and aesthetics. Getting it wrong can be a very expensive mistake.”

That’s why it’s crucial to spend some time on the front end of the process thinking about exactly what you want and need from your home’s new openings to the outside world. From functional differences to the overall look to energy efficiency and more, the pros representing Simonton recommend seven things to look for when choosing new windows.

Quality. The Good Housekeeping Seal has been the gold standard of product endorsements for 125 years. Consumers see that designation and can be assured they’re buying the highest quality product they can buy. The Simonton 5500 and 6500 Double Hung, 6200 Sliding and DaylightMax® Sliding windows have earned the Good Housekeeping Seal for their superior quality, exceptional energy efficiency, and robust safety and security features. This endorsement isn’t given out lightly. Products go through hundreds of hours of review and lab testing at the Good Housekeeping Institute to ensure they meet the strict, high standards necessary to earn the Seal. According to Good Housekeeping, Simonton windows earned the Good Housekeeping Seal for their stylish designs, exceptional performance and optimal energy efficiency, backed by a strong track record of reliability.

Window function. How do you want your windows to operate day-to-day? With double hung windows, the bottom and top sash open and tilt in for easy cleaning, making this style ideal for multi-story homes. Casement windows feature easy-to-reach handles that allow you to simply crank open the window. There are also single hung, sliding, awning, bay and bow, mulled and custom combination windows, each offering unique benefits.

Energy efficiency. Look for energy-efficient dual-pane windows, Low-E glass, argon gas and warm-edge spacers to improve your home’s comfort and lower energy costs. Choose ENERGY STAR® certified windows with advanced glass features for optimal efficiency, solar control and comfort in any climate. ENERGY STAR Most Efficient windows showcase the top-performing certified products with select Simonton window styles with optional triple-pane glass recognized as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient in 2024.

Materials. Should you get wood, fiberglass, aluminum or vinyl windows? Which is best? Vinyl windows have several advantages, making them a standout choice. They’re energy efficient, low maintenance, extremely durable, affordable and come in a variety of sizes, colors, finishes and hardware to match your home’s aesthetic.

Weatherability. Given the unpredictable weather much of the country has been experiencing lately, you need to know your windows can take whatever Mother Nature dishes out. Look for windows with enhanced weather resistance and accelerated drainage like the Simonton 5500 Double Hung windows, which can help whisk water away from windows even in heavy rain. For coastal areas prone to hurricane-force winds, Simonton StormBreaker Plus impact-resistant windows help protect your home against high winds and flying debris.

Security. This usually isn’t the first thing on homeowners’ minds when choosing windows, and many people don’t know options exist. Make sure your windows have passed forced entry resistance tests for added peace of mind. Some windows, including the Simonton DaylightMax and 6200 Sliding, include an AutoSense lock that self-latches when the window is closed. Also, choose impact-resistant laminated glass that helps protect against forced entry.

Curb appeal. Consider your home’s architectural design and choose windows that match its aesthetic. A good place to start is to look at your current windows and choose replacements that mimic that style.

These seven must-haves will guide you to make the right decision about outfitting your home with new windows. Visit Simonton Windows & Doors for inspiration.

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Recently diagnosed with thyroid eye disease? You may want to know about a new clinical study

2024-12-09T05:01:00

(BPT) – Your eyes can tell you a lot about your health, and this is especially true for those living with thyroid eye disease (TED). TED occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets the tissues around the eyes, leading to symptoms like swelling, bulging and discomfort. During the active phase of TED, when these symptoms are most pronounced, people often experience redness, pain, and inflammation, which can impact daily life.

TED is commonly associated with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. According to the American Thyroid Association, TED can manifest symptoms such as a gritty sensation in the eyes, light sensitivity, dry eyes, and even double vision. While these symptoms may vary in intensity and can improve over time, some individuals may experience more severe forms that require prescription medication or, in some situations, surgery.

A new investigational drug

In an effort to develop additional drug options for TED, researchers are conducting a clinical trial called the spiriTED study. This study is focused on evaluating an investigational drug, TOUR006, in adults with Graves’ disease whose onset of TED symptoms began in the past 15 months. The goal is to better understand how TOUR006 may work in comparison to a placebo — a substance without any active investigational drug.

How to participate in the spiriTED study

Current treatments for conditions like TED exist thanks to the participation of research study volunteers. If you or someone you know is managing moderate to severe active-phase TED, you might consider joining the spiriTED study to help advance research efforts for yourself and others facing similar challenges.

To be eligible, participants must be between 18 and 80 years old, have been diagnosed with Graves’ disease and are currently experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of TED that began in the last 15 months. Note that this is not a complete list of study eligibility requirements. The study doctor will review the full requirements for this study with you. You may be eligible for reasonable compensation for your time to attend study visits and/or reimbursement for certain approved study-related costs, such as transportation. Your safety is a top priority, and you’ll be monitored throughout the study.

To learn more and see if you qualify, click here to take the next step.

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Alzheimer’s Disease Therapy Provides Patients With Hope

2024-12-06T12:01:00

(BPT) – (In Partnership with Eli Lilly and Company)

Are you forgetting your words or losing your train of thought more than usual? Memory and thinking issues can be easily dismissed as signs of normal aging, though they could point to a more serious disease. Experts believe excessive amyloid plaque buildup may cause changes in the brain that make it difficult to do things such as retain new information, remember important dates or find the right words or names.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6.9 million Americans aged 65 or older are living with Alzheimer’s dementia in 2024. While symptoms may be recognizable, patients may avoid reaching out to their doctors or even hide symptoms due to fear of the stigma associated with Alzheimer’s disease. But Carole, 72, says that not letting herself or others dismiss her symptoms as normal aging was critical to get the diagnosis and help she needed.

“Try to stay positive,” Carole advises folks who notice memory and thinking issues. “Be honest with yourself. There’s help out there, but you have to sometimes seek it out yourself.”

Subtle changes speak volumes

After decades of living, working, and raising kids in Kentucky, Carole and her husband Hank decided to spend their golden years in the Sunshine State. They moved to Punta Gorda, Florida, and have been enjoying retirement there for the past 11 years.

As the years passed by, Hank noticed changes in his wife. Carole began regularly repeating herself without realizing it and misplacing items around their home. Having helped care for his mother and Carole’s, who both faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease, he was familiar with some of the early signs and symptoms of the disease. Hank also knew Carole’s family history with the disease meant she had an increased chance of developing it herself.

“All of a sudden, you’re seeing this person is struggling to get some things done that would have just been no big deal,” said Hank. “One of the key things to managing Alzheimer’s disease is recognition. You just have to get in there and be supportive of your loved ones.”

Self-advocacy paves a brighter future

It is estimated that about one-third of people with MCI due to Alzheimer’s disease progress to a later stage within five years. Once Hank recognized the symptoms, he knew it was important to ask Carole’s doctor for a cognitive screening because diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease earlier has the potential to provide an opportunity for advanced care planning in collaboration with your doctor. With the availability of disease-modifying treatments and the potential to slow disease progression, an early diagnosis may allow patients to continue to do the things they enjoy for a longer time.

When Hank gently voiced his concerns about her behavior, the couple decided Carole needed to see her doctor as soon as possible. After a visit to her doctor – who said Carole’s symptoms were normal for her age – Carole began doing additional research. While Carole’s symptoms can be associated with normal aging, she remembered her symptoms were different than her mother’s.

With Hank’s support, Carole continued seeking out testing options and potential therapies. Eventually she was diagnosed with early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease and was accepted into a late-phase clinical trial for Kisunla™ (donanemab-azbt) injection for IV infusion (350 mg/20 mL). Kisunla is an amyloid-targeting therapy the FDA approved to treat early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease (mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia stage of disease) with confirmed amyloid pathology.

“I just thought, wow, I’m so lucky to get into a clinical trial,” Carole said. “And it helped me. It gave me hope.”

SELECT SAFETY INFORMATION

Kisunla can cause Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities, or “ARIA.” ARIA is a common but serious side effect that does not usually cause any symptoms, but can be serious. ARIA can be fatal. ARIA is most commonly seen as temporary swelling in an area or areas of the brain that usually goes away over time. Some people may also have spots of bleeding on the surface of or in the brain and infrequently, larger areas of bleeding in the brain can occur. Please see Indication and Safety Summary with Warnings below for additional safety information for Kisunla.

Carole’s Treatment Journey

During the 18-month study, Carole and Hank say her cognitive health appeared to remain steady. Carole credits her early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, optimism and hope to her self-advocacy and treatment with Kisunla. In the 18-month study, Kisunla slowed the progression of memory and thinking issues that are due to early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease compared to placebo.

Kisunla is a therapy that has been shown in clinical studies to reduce amyloid plaques. Kisunla is an important advancement, since doctors can consider stopping Kisunla treatment based on the reduction of amyloid plaques to minimal levels on amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. That means some patients might not have to go in for infusions for an unlimited period of time*. [*Please note: Kisunla is administered every 4 weeks through IV infusion for 30 minutes. The long-term clinical benefit of Kisunla after stopping treatment has not been studied.]

Today, Carole spends most of her time with family. Carole and Hank have two children, one in Atlanta and one in Baltimore, and two grandchildren. When she isn’t with extended family, Carole largely spends most of her time with Hank at home in Florida or traveling to her favorite destinations like the Great Smokey Mountains.

“Things might be different if I didn’t first admit I had this problem or tried to get help or hadn’t been in the study,” she said.

Don’t ignore the signs

If you or a loved one are experiencing memory or thinking issues, it’s important to discuss these issues with your physician along with the potential for cognitive screening and other tests to help determine if the underlying cause of the memory and thinking issues could be due to early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. Learn about treatment with Kisunla by visiting www.kisunla.lilly.com.

Lilly Support Services™ for Kisunla is a free support program committed to help patients navigating treatment with Kisunla. The program includes offerings such as coverage determination assistance, care coordination, nurse navigator support, and customized support and resources. For more information about Lilly Support Services and Kisunla, call 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or visit www.kisunla.lilly.com.

INDICATION AND SAFETY SUMMARY WITH WARNINGS

Kisunla™ (kih-SUHN-lah) is used to treat adults with early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease (AD), which includes mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia stage of disease.

Warnings – Kisunla can cause Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities or “ARIA.” This is a common side effect that does not usually cause any symptoms, but serious symptoms can occur. ARIA can be fatal. ARIA is most commonly seen as temporary swelling in an area or areas of the brain that usually goes away over time. Some people may also have spots of bleeding on the surface of or in the brain and infrequently, larger areas of bleeding in the brain can occur. Although most people do not have symptoms, some people have:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Difficulty walking
  • Confusion
  • Vision changes
  • Seizures

Some people have a genetic risk factor (homozygous apolipoprotein E ε4 gene carriers) that may cause an increased risk for ARIA. Talk to your healthcare provider about testing to see if you have this risk factor.

You may be at higher risk of developing bleeding in the brain if you take medicines to reduce blood clots from forming (antithrombotic medicines) while receiving Kisunla. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if you are on any medicines that increase this risk.

Your healthcare provider will do magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scans before and during your treatment with Kisunla to check you for ARIA. You should carry information that you are receiving Kisunla, which can cause ARIA, and that ARIA symptoms can look like stroke symptoms. Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you have any of the symptoms listed above.

There are registries that collect information on treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. Your healthcare provider can help you become enrolled in these registries.

Warnings – Kisunla can cause serious allergic and infusion-related reactions. Do not receive Kisunla if you have serious allergic reactions to donanemab-azbt or any of the ingredients in Kisunla. Symptoms may include swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or eyelids, problems breathing, hives, chills, irritation of skin, nausea, vomiting, sweating, headache, or chest pain. You will be monitored for at least 30 minutes after you receive Kisunla for any reaction. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have these symptoms or any reaction during or after a Kisunla infusion.

Other common side effects

  • Headache

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any side effects. These are not all of the possible side effects of Kisunla. You can report side effects at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Before you receive Kisunla, tell your healthcare provider:

  • About all medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, as well as vitamins and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you have medicines to reduce blood clots from forming (antithrombotic medicines, including aspirin).
  • About all of your medical conditions including if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed. Kisunla has not been studied in people who were pregnant or breastfeeding. It is not known if Kisunla could harm your unborn or breastfeeding baby.

How to receive Kisunla

Kisunla is a prescription medicine given through an intravenous (IV) infusion using a needle inserted into a vein in your arm. Kisunla is given once every 4 weeks. Each infusion will last about 30 minutes.

Learn more

For more information about Kisunla, call 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979) or go to kisunla.lilly.com.

This summary provides basic information about Kisunla. It does not include all information known about this medicine. Read the information given to you about Kisunla. This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about Kisunla. Your healthcare provider is the best person to help you decide if Kisunla is right for you.

DN CON BS APP

Kisunla™ and Lilly Support Services are trademarks owned or licensed by Eli Lilly and Company, its subsidiaries, or affiliates.

PP-DN-US-0402 11/2024 ©Lilly USA, LLC 2024. All rights reserved.

References:

  1. Porsteinsson AP, Isaacson RS, Knox S, et al. Diagnosis of early Alzheimer’s disease: clinical practice in 2021. J Prev Alzheimers Dis. 2021;3(8):371-386.
  2. Alzheimer’s Association. 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Alzheimers Dement. 2024;20(5)
  3. Wessels AM, Dennehy EB, Dowsett SA, et al. Meaningful clinical changes in Alzheimer disease measured with the iADRS and illustrated using the donanemab TRAILBLAZER-ALZ study findings. Neurol Clin Pract. 2023;13(2):e200127. doi:10.1212/CPJ.0000000000200127
  4. Kisunla (donanemab-azbt). Prescribing Information. Lilly USA, LLC.
  5. Kisunla (donanemab-azbt). Medication Guide. Lilly USA, LLC.
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Prioritize your health this holiday season by getting vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease

2024-12-06T06:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season can be a wonderful time — from gathering with family and friends to enjoying some time off work and even indulging in all the yummy treats. The last thing we want is to become sick with illnesses like pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) and miss out on this joyful time with the ones we love. That’s why it’s important to take a proactive approach when it comes to our health. And fortunately, there are ways to help protect ourselves against certain illnesses so we can continue enjoying all of the magic and festivities this season has to offer.

Here are some ways you can prioritize your health ahead of the holidays:

  • Wash your hands regularly: lather on an antibacterial soap to defend against germs
  • Eat a balanced diet: try new recipes that focus on getting a proper share of protein and veggies
  • Get enough sleep: stop scrolling before bed and ensure you’re getting the amount of sleep you need to feel your best
  • Exercise: even if it’s just a walk around the block, moving your body can help you feel better physically and mentally
  • Protect yourself from cold weather: break out your favorite scarves and gloves to bundle up in style
  • Get vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease

Are you 50 or older? The CDC now recommends pneumococcal vaccination for adults 50 and older. Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt your life for weeks, put you in the hospital and even be life-threatening. The same bacteria that cause pneumococcal pneumonia are also responsible for invasive pneumococcal disease, or IPD, which includes blood infection and meningitis.

It’s important to know that being 50 or older puts you at increased risk for these illnesses, even if you’re healthy. Those 19 or older with certain underlying medical conditions like diabetes, asthma, chronic heart disease and COPD are also at increased risk. If you fit in any of these groups, getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help protect yourself.

There’s a misconception that you can only get pneumococcal pneumonia and IPD during flu season or in the winter, but you can get it any time of year. Vaccination is available all year round, so now is a great time to assess if pneumococcal vaccination is right for you.

Even if you’ve already been vaccinated against pneumococcal disease previously, your healthcare provider may recommend another vaccination for additional protection.

The holidays are all about being present with our loved ones. So make sure you talk to your doctor or pharmacist about pneumococcal vaccination and visit VaxAssist.com to schedule a vaccination appointment today.

Brought to you by Pfizer.

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Less stress. More magic. Holiday hosting made simple.

2024-12-05T17:45:00

(BPT) – It’s December. And you know what that means. It’s time to finish that list and check it twice. Nobody is feeling the holiday bustle quite like the host. From buying the gifts to wrapping the gifts, and preparing the food to setting the table, the host is busy making the magic happen.

If you’ve ever fed a crowd, you know this comes with its fair share of stress. Whether it’s the cost or the time it takes to shop, prep and cook, hosts everywhere deserve a round of applause. And maybe a few festive tips for making the moment less stressful and more joy filled.

The traditional holiday meal, available in one click

Skip the stress of meal planning and let someone else do the heavy lifting by purchasing a curated meal basket. At Walmart you can get a meal that serves 12 people for less than $5 per person.

From ham and fan favorite sides like sweet potato and green bean casseroles, to brown-and-serve rolls and pumpkin pie, the basket includes 28 ingredients to pull together a traditional meal and is available in stores or with one simple click on Walmart.com/HolidayMeal through December 31.

Need to check gifts off the list too? You can also gift this meal to friends and family afar, or donate one to your local Salvation Army unit, all in one click on the Walmart website.

Mix and match trendy appetizers

Impress your guests with easy-to-make light bites that are as delicious as they are stylish. The seasonal bettergoods items at Walmart are perfect for your holiday hosting needs. Elevate your holiday table with chef-inspired bites like these:

A tin of Bettergoods Sleigh Ride MixShoppable recipes and simple meal solutions

For all those weeknight dinners in between the holiday meals, keep it easy and let someone else do the work for you. Walmart curated 25 shoppable recipes on its website to help you make it a Delicious December. From Skillet-Ready Pasta to Leftover Turkey & Ham Monte Cristo, there’s no guesswork and everything you need for each meal is shoppable with one click on Walmart’s website.

With a little preparation and a few simple strategies, it’s easy to host with less stress and more savings, so even the busiest magic makers can find a little more time to enjoy what truly matters — good food, great company and making lasting memories.

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Driving professional impact: 5 ways rising leaders use AI

2024-12-05T16:27:00

(BPT) – Generative AI is everywhere, especially in the workplace. In fact, many aspiring leaders in the workplace are excited about the widespread adoption of AI and recognize it as a valuable tool for their careers.

Google Workspace — the productivity platform that includes AI-powered tools like Gmail, Docs, Drive, Meet and more, relied on by over 3 billion users and more than 10 million paying customers — commissioned a survey with The Harris Poll to get a sense of how rising leaders view and use AI.

The study surveyed workers ages 22-39 years old who currently have or aspire to hold a leadership position at work. The result? The research found that 82% of young leaders surveyed are already embracing AI tools in their work. And, looking further out, almost all (98%) of those surveyed anticipate that AI will have an impact on their industry or workplace within the next five years.

“Our research shows that emerging leaders are adopting AI to increase their impact at work,” said Yulie Kwon Kim, VP of Product, Google Workspace. “Rising leaders are not simply using AI as a tool for efficiency, but as a catalyst to help grow their careers.”

The findings show it’s clear — aspiring leaders are adopting AI to increase their impact at work. Here are five key ways AI is transforming the way young leaders work.

1. Overcome task paralysis

Getting started on a task, big or small, can feel incredibly challenging and can lead to task paralysis. Luckily, AI can help employees navigate the difficulties of task initiation, with 88% of survey respondents saying they would use AI to start a task that feels overwhelming. Consider using AI to brainstorm ideas, help write an email, outline a blog draft, and more.

2. Improve writing

In the era of hybrid work, strong communication is more important than ever. When sending emails, conveying the proper tone and content can be anxiety-inducing, especially for those earlier in their careers.

To that end, many (88%) young leaders say that AI can help them strike the right tone in their writing. Even more telling, 70% have used AI for tasks like drafting email responses, writing challenging emails from scratch, or helping overcome language barriers.

3. Increase work flexibility

Hybrid work is becoming the new normal for many organizations, so it’s important that people have tools to support more flexible collaboration from anywhere, across any device. A whopping 87% of respondents believe AI can make them more comfortable composing lengthy emails on their phones and 90% also believe they would feel more confident joining meetings on-the-go if they knew AI was taking meeting notes for them.

4. Improve management capabilities

It’s important that managers have strong communication and interpersonal skills, can think strategically, and more. The survey found that these are areas where AI can help in meaningful ways. When considering how to improve their management capabilities, 79% of respondents said they are interested in using AI to become better managers. This includes 47% who said AI can help enhance communication to improve problem-solving and facilitate better relationships.

5. Create a bigger impact

Rising leaders want to drive real impact in their workplace. Oftentimes, however, routine tasks can bog down young leaders and keep them from focusing on strategic, career-defining work. To better prioritize their time, many young leaders are using AI. Fifty percent recognize the current and potential impact of AI to automate routine tasks, so that they can spend more time focused on strategic work.

These are just five ways rising leaders are using AI to aid their professional development and get ahead in the workplace. With AI as an impetus to help young leaders grow their careers and drive more impact, AI will undoubtedly have a ripple effect on organizations around the world.

“The future of work is here — and it’s AI-powered,” said Yulie Kwon Kim.

To learn more about AI and its uses, visit Workspace.Google.com/Solutions/AI/.

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Ready-To-Use Glucagon Emphasized in Latest Diabetes Guidelines

2024-12-05T13:01:00

(BPT) – If you or someone you care for is living with diabetes, you know it’s important to stay up to date on the latest diabetes management guidelines. These updates for healthcare professionals from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the Endocrine Society highlight some key changes about who is at risk for low blood sugar, and what you should do if you are at increased risk.

What are the updates?

The ADA and Endocrine Society now say that you should have a prescription for ready-to-use glucagon if you are at risk of developing low blood sugar.1,2 You’re considered at risk if you take medications like insulin, sulfonylureas or meglitinides.

If that’s you — or someone you care for — talk to your doctor today about your risk factors. Very low blood sugar is common, costly and life-threatening.2 That’s why the new guidelines recommend that those at high risk of low blood sugar have access to ready-to-use glucagon.

Glucagon is a hormone that helps raise blood sugar levels, and ready-to-use options provide ease of administration during a low blood sugar emergency. Even though the guidelines have been updated, many people living with diabetes, who should have ready-to-use glucagon, don’t have it. The guidelines acknowledge that glucagon prescriptions are low, and that more needs to be done to protect those at risk.2

How to ensure your rescue plan aligns with the guidelines

Use the checklist below to make sure your diabetes toolkit is up to date.

  1. Take a fresh look at your low blood sugar emergency plan. Does it include a ready-to-use glucagon option?
  2. Learn about ready-to-use options like Gvoke HypoPen® (glucagon injection), the ready-to-use rescue pen anyone can use3 with confidence.
  3. Speak with your healthcare provider about your risk and if Gvoke HypoPen is right for you.
  4. Get a prescription for ready-to-use glucagon and fill it right away.
  5. Always keep it with you.
  6. Educate friends, family, and coworkers about the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar and what they can do to support you should you experience a low blood sugar emergency in their presence. That includes where to find your rescue tool, when to use it, and how to use it.

Staying on top of evolving diabetes care guidelines is important. With the right plan in place, you can face very low blood sugar with confidence.

Learn more about Gvoke HypoPen.

INDICATION AND SAFETY SUMMARY

GVOKE is a prescription medicine used to treat very low blood sugar (severe hypoglycemia) in adults and kids with diabetes ages 2 years and above. It is not known if GVOKE is safe and effective in children under 2 years of age.

WARNINGS

Do not use GVOKE if:

  • you have a tumor in the gland on top of your kidneys (adrenal gland), called a pheochromocytoma.
  • you have a tumor in your pancreas called an insulinoma.
  • you are allergic to glucagon or any inactive ingredient in GVOKE.

GVOKE MAY CAUSE SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS, INCLUDING:

High blood pressure. GVOKE can cause high blood pressure in certain people with tumors in their adrenal glands.

Low blood sugar. GVOKE can cause low blood sugar in certain people with tumors in their pancreas called insulinomas by making too much insulin in their bodies.

Serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you have a serious allergic reaction including:

  • rash
  • difficulty breathing
  • low blood pressure

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

The most common side effects of GVOKE in adults include:

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • swelling at the injection site
  • headache

The most common side effects of GVOKE in children include:

  • nausea
  • low blood sugar
  • high blood sugar
  • vomiting
  • abdominal pain
  • headache
  • pain or redness at the injection site
  • itching

These are not all the possible side effects of GVOKE. For more information, ask your doctor.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

BEFORE USING

Before using GVOKE, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have adrenal gland problems
  • have a tumor in your pancreas
  • have not had food or water for a long time (prolonged fasting or starvation)
  • have low blood sugar that does not go away (chronic hypoglycemia)
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if GVOKE passes into your breast milk. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you can use GVOKE while breastfeeding.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

HOW TO USE

  • Read the detailed Instructions for Use that come with GVOKE.
  • Use GVOKE exactly how your healthcare provider tells you to use it
  • Make sure your relatives, close friends, and caregivers know where you store GVOKE and how to use it the right way before you need their help.
  • Act quickly. Having very low blood sugar for a period of time may be harmful.
  • Your healthcare provider will tell you how and when to use GVOKE.
  • After giving GVOKE, your caregiver should call for emergency medical help right away.
  • If you do not respond after 15 minutes, your caregiver may give you another dose, if available. Tell your healthcare provider each time you use GVOKE. Low blood sugar may happen again after receiving an injection of GVOKE. Your diabetes medicine may need to be changed.

HOW TO STORE

  • Keep GVOKE pre-filled syringe and HypoPen in sealed foil pouch until time of use.
  • Keep GVOKE kit vial and pouched syringe together in original carton until time of use.
  • Store GVOKE at temperatures between 68°F and 77°F.
  • Do not keep it in the refrigerator or let it freeze.

Keep GVOKE and all medicines out of the reach of children.

For more information, call 1-877-937-4737 or go to www.GvokeGlucagon.com.

Please see the Full Prescribing Information for Gvoke

References:

  1. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. 6. Glycemic Goals and Hypoglycemia: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2024. Diabetes Care. 2024;47(Suppl 1):S111-S125. doi:10.2337/dc24-S006.
  2. McCall AL, Lieb DC, Gianchandani R, et al. Management of individuals with diabetes at high risk for hypoglycemia: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2023;108(3):529-562.doi:10.1210/clinem/dgac596.
  3. Valentine V, Newswanger B, Prestrelski S, Andre AD, Garibaldi M. Human factors usability and validation studies of a glucagon autoinjector in a simulated severe hypoglycemia rescue situation. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2019;21(9):522-530.

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Are you living with eczema? It’s time to get the care you deserve

2024-12-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company

Understanding eczema

For her entire life, April has lived with dry, itchy skin, experiencing frequent thinning and scarring of her skin due to insistent itching. Atopic dermatitis, also called eczema, is much more than just a rash. April is one of nearly 16.5 million people in the U.S. who lives with eczema.1

The often-uncomfortable symptoms of eczema can cause severe itchiness, which can lead to more scratching causing skin to crack and bleed, contributing to self-isolation, anxiety and depression.2-4 While the disease can affect anyone, it often appears differently on varying skin tones,5 and on darker skin tones, the signs can be masked due to skin pigmentation and result in delayed diagnosis and care.6

“I wasn’t aware of research on skin conditions like eczema in my community, and I spent most of my childhood treating my condition with home remedies, uneducated on the various treatments available to help manage my skin,” shared April.

According to research, Black Americans are more likely to develop more severe cases of eczema,7 and more generally, people with skin of color may have a disproportionately higher prevalence of skin conditions.8 Yet people with skin of color, like April, are often underrepresented in care and research. This can unfortunately lead to the people who need care most being less likely to pursue or receive appropriate treatment for their disease.

“There is a lack of knowledge,” said April. “I tried working with dermatologists, but it wasn’t helpful; I felt judged and observed, instead of helped. We need doctors to have more education on how this disease can affect a patient’s mental health…someone that is understanding of the condition and willing to help.”

Dr. Maria Jose Rueda, M.D., head of dermatology medical affairs at Eli Lilly and Company (Lilly) and trained dermatologist, has seen firsthand how the lack of education for health care providers can unintentionally lead to a feeling of judgement and mistrust among patients. “The issue is that some people don’t trust health care providers and the system and aren’t able to find a provider who knows about their type of skin and understands the differences that they may have. Gaps in care have four major root causes including cultural diversity, socioeconomic disadvantages, racial/ethnic biases and inadequate training for health care providers or lack of research including underrepresentation in medical research. At Lilly, we are working with some of the most prominent experts in the field to educate and address some of these gaps.”

Making a change

Lilly is focused on creating solutions that strengthen the relationship between health care providers and patients with eczema by advancing treatment conversations and opening the lines of communication between both groups. For example, Lilly is:

  • Engaging in impactful research that improves patient care to increase understanding of clinical management from diagnosis to treatment such as conducting a clinical trial specifically for people of color with eczema.
  • Supporting health care providers with education on the journey people with skin of color face and the understanding of eczema by collaborating to develop educational webinars and training modules.
  • Empowering the patient voice to increase understanding of common care challenges so people can make their needs known and actively partner to find impactful solutions. For example, Lilly surveyed over 1,200 adults with dermatologic conditions to highlight challenges and foster discussion among health care providers, patients, and community members.

There is a lot of work left to be done, but first we need to address the critical health disparities in the field of dermatology for people with eczema and skin of color.

“At Lilly, we strive to be a leader in addressing the health needs of underserved populations. We are dedicated to creating meaningful change and amplifying the voices of these underserved patients and raising awareness of the challenges they face,” shared Dr. Rueda.

Resources to help you decide what treatment is right for you

Lilly’s website features more information about the company’s commitment to health equity and how Lilly is advancing care in dermatology. For more information on eczema, including a list of local health care providers with experience diagnosing and treating this condition, visit the National Eczema Association.

References

1. Chiesa Fuxench ZC, Block JK, Boguniewicz M, et al. Atopic dermatitis in America study: a cross-sectional study examining the prevalence and disease burden of atopic dermatitis in the US adult population. J Invest Dermatol. 2019;139(3):583-590. doi:10.1016/j.jid.2018.08.028

2. Nelson, S. (2023, January 3). Mental health and eczema – seeing the unseen. National Eczema Association. https://nationaleczema.org/blog/mental-health-science/#:~:text=The%20effects%20of%20AD%20on,on%20work%20absenteeism%20or%20productivit

3. Chandan N and Lio P. The shape of atopic dermatitis. Practical Dermatology June 2019:64-78. Available at: https://practicaldermatology.com/articles/2019-june/the-shape-of-atopic-dermatitis

4. Lohman ME and Lio P. Comparison of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis guidelines – an argument for aggressive atopic dermatitis management. Pediatr Dermatol 2017;34(6):739-42.

5. Sangha AM. Dermatological conditions in skin of color—managing atopic dermatitis. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(3 suppl 1): S20-S22.

6. Adelekun A, Onyekaba G, Lipof JB. Skin color in dermatology textbooks: An updated evaluation and analysis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Jan;84(1):194-196.

7. National Eczema Association. Eczema in skin of color: What you need to know. Available at: https://nationaleczema.org/skin-of-color/

8. McKenzie S, Brown-Korsah JB, Syder NC, Omar D, Taylor SC, Elbuluk N. Variations in genetics, biology, and phenotype of cutaneous disorders in skin of color. Part II: Differences in clinical presentation and disparities in cutaneous disorders in skin of color. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2022 Dec; 87(6):1261-1270.

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4 reasons you should check your hearing this year

2024-12-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – When was the last time you had your hearing checked? If you’re like most Americans, it may have been a while or you may not have gotten it checked before — rest assured, you’re not alone. According to Synchrony’s 2024 “Hearing Health & Loss Prevention” study, 70% of people consider their hearing to be a priority (who doesn’t?) but less than 10% have visited an audiologist in the past year.

Even more surprising, the study found 85% of respondents said there was no need to discuss their hearing with their health care provider, even though more than one in five people admitted to exhibiting potential symptoms of hearing loss, like:

  • Needing people to repeat themselves
  • Listening to music or watching TV louder than others may find necessary
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

Sound familiar? Hearing loss can come on gradually over time, so you might not even realize it’s happening. Delaying hearing care can result in outcomes that are more serious than just having to turn up the volume again or asking someone to repeat themselves. It can have a significant effect on your physical, mental and emotional well-being that can lead to repercussions, including, but not limited to:

Social isolation: People with moderate or even mild hearing loss that’s untreated can start to withdraw from social situations like parties or get-togethers because they have trouble hearing and participating in conversations in noisy environments. As we age, social connection and interaction is crucial to our well-being. Isolation from friends, family and community because of hearing loss can contribute to depression and loneliness.

Negative impact on job or school performance: If you can’t hear instructions or conversations in meetings, you can miss crucial information that you need to know to perform your job adequately and safely. The same goes for school assignments.

Increased risk of falls: Hearing plays an important role in balance and spatial awareness, and in cases where there is even mild hearing loss, adults are at an increased risk of accidental falls.

Cognitive decline: Untreated hearing loss has been strongly linked to dementia in older adults. According to a Johns Hopkins study (among others), older adults with hearing loss were more likely to have dementia. It’s an alarming statistic for those who ignore their hearing loss symptoms. But, here’s the good news — the risk of dementia lowers among hearing aid users. It shows a clear link between hearing loss and dementia, and that treating hearing loss diminishes that risk. Exactly how hearing loss contributes to dementia is not completely understood, but one theory suggests that, in people with hearing loss, the brain must work harder to process and decipher sounds, which can be exhausting over time.

That’s why the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA) recommends all adults 18-40 years old have their hearing tested every three to five years, regardless of whether they’re experiencing hearing loss or not. If you’re over 60 years old, frequently exposed to loud noises, experiencing hearing loss symptoms or have been diagnosed with hearing loss, you should be getting your ears checked every year.

With all of the dangers of neglecting hearing care, why don’t more people make it a part of their yearly trips to their physicians? One factor could be cost. In fact, Synchrony’s “Hearing Health & Loss Prevention” study found that 43% of respondents said one of the primary factors for getting their hearing checked would be cost, and they would be more likely to get their hearing checked if it was free.

There are payment options to help you manage the costs of health care associated with hearing, including financial assistance (when applicable), health insurance, third-party financing and in-house payment plans. CareCredit is a credit card used for health and wellness products and treatments that offers financing options for qualified consumers and is accepted in more than 11,000 audiology and hearing practices across the country for treatments and products that are not covered by insurance. By fulfilling the evolving needs and expectations of patients, CareCredit is a tool that empowers people to pay for the health and wellness care they want in a way that fits their lifestyle.

To learn more about what Synchrony’s “Hearing Health & Loss Prevention” study uncovered about hearing health, preventative hearing care and financial planning options, please visit www.carecredit.com/well-u/. To learn more about CareCredit, please visit www.carecredit.com.