Category: Brandpoint Health

2025-09-10T09:01:00

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

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

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

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

Getting tested: Jodi’s decision

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

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

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

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

A simple test that gives you options

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

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

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

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

Inspiring others, saving lives

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

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

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

Know your risk and plan for the future.

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

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

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

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

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

2025-09-08T08:01:00

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

2025-09-07T23:01:00

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

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

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

A serious autoimmune disease, misunderstood

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

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

When ‘cosmetic’ becomes a barrier to care

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

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

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

Access and equity: Not everyone gets the same chance

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

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

More than hair: Why holistic support matters

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

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

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

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

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

What can you do?

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

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

2025-09-04T10:31:00

(BPT) – Sept. 11, 2001, left a huge mark on the U.S. and changed the life trajectories of many people, including Army National Guard veteran Antoinette Wallace. Before 9/11, she had never considered joining the military. Antoinette was applying to colleges, narrowing her options and considering a legal career. That all changed.

“I was in high school when 9/11 happened,” Antoinette said. “I was a senior at Curtis High School in Staten Island, so I witnessed everything that morning. I saw the first plane hit and thought it was an accident, but when I saw the second plane hit, I wondered what was going on. Then I watched the towers collapse. This all gave me the resolve to join the military.”

While only in eighth grade on Sept. 11, Gabriel Vasquez was already moved to respond.

“I saw smoke coming from the towers from my classroom,” said Gabriel. “In the coming months, New York City was the most patriotic I had ever seen, with flags everywhere. I knew I had to do something to serve my nation.”

From service members to civilians

About 4 million men and women served on active-duty in the first 10 years following 9/11. Like many, Antoinette and Gabriel enjoyed the natural camaraderie they built with other service members.

Recapturing that sense of belonging and friendship, on top of managing physical and mental health challenges, made transitioning back to civilian lives difficult.

“You’ve been completely changed, and you will never be the same again,” Antoinette said. “I wanted things to return to ‘normal’ and be a typical early 20-something with a social life. But trying to connect with new people, especially civilians, is tough.”

When Gabriel left the military after the birth of his son, he also missed the built-in social life and found making authentic connections difficult.

“When I left the Marines, I lost that brotherhood and camaraderie,” he said. “Finding it again felt impossible.”

Luckily, Antoinette and Gabriel found a place where they belonged and resources that made a return to civilian life more manageable through Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP).

Committed to veterans

WWP started in 2003 to provide comfort items to injured service members coming home from conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Since then, the nonprofit has evolved to provide programs and services that help post-9/11 veterans by bringing them together, helping them find the right civilian career and establishing programs to empower veterans to address their mental health so they can thrive for a lifetime.

“I was at the Veterans Affairs hospital when I heard about Wounded Warrior Project from fellow female veterans,” Antoinette said. “The organization really caught my attention, so I signed up. I wanted to connect with other veterans so much and Wounded Warrior Project made that possible. Everyone embraced me at my first event, and I felt so comfortable.”

During his time in college, Gabriel also heard about WWP through word of mouth, but initially didn’t know he could join.

“I didn’t know I was eligible because I thought you had to be severely disabled,” Gabriel said. “I have physical injuries, but I still have all my limbs.”

WWP serves veterans with visible and invisible wounds. Once he realized that, Gabriel joined WWP and found the camaraderie he had missed during his time as a Marine.

Beyond the opportunity for social connections with like-minded people, Antoinette and Gabriel found other avenues of support through WWP.

“The Physical Health and Wellness program has been very helpful for me,” said Gabriel. “Having access to dietary information and learning things like how to stretch and work out properly have made my life easier.”

Never alone

One thing that Antoinette and Gabriel have learned from their experiences with WWP is that they don’t have to walk their journey alone.

“There is help out there,” Antoinette said. “If you are a veteran or know one, there are organizations like Wounded Warrior Project that can help in your recovery. While you might doubt your eligibility, take the first step toward healing by reaching out.”

To learn more about how WWP services and programs can help you or veterans in your life, visit WoundedWarriorProject.org.

2025-09-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 3 people will experience a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime.¹ That’s the bad news. The good news is that due to advancements in treatment, along with preventive actions, cancer is becoming increasingly treatable. In fact, while cancer continues to be the second most common cause of death in the U.S., the cancer death rate fell 32% from 1991 to 2019.²

The reminders are everywhere: Early detection saves lives. But not only that — it can help protect families after diagnosis and into survivorship. According to a recent study from the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), the cost of a cancer diagnosis is on the rise, with an average monthly out-of-pocket health care cost that is $592.53 higher than those who have not been diagnosed. And for those whose diagnosis came early, stage 0, for example, average monthly costs are roughly 36% less than those diagnosed at stage 4.³

So, how can we use these statistics to our advantage? Well, in addition to seeing the data everywhere, there are reminders all around us, part of the scenery, but often overlooked. Aflac recently initiated a multimedia campaign, including a video that ran on ESPN during the Aflac Kickoff Game on Aug. 31, to turn one of these images, a simple checkered pattern, into a valuable prompt. If you see a check, think about getting checked for cancer.

There is some urgency here. With all of the information that can help people help themselves, many Americans still aren’t checking the box when it comes to checking for cancer. In fact, according to Prevent Cancer Foundation, 65% of American adults report not being up to date on at least one routine cancer screening,⁴ meaning that they are often flying blind, rather than having priceless knowledge that could help save their lives, or more often provide the peace of mind of knowing they are healthy and safe.

The Check for Cancer message isn’t just for those typically associated with such a diagnosis. While it is true that cancer is still a disease of age, new guidelines recommending screenings for cancers like colorectal cancer at younger ages are having an impact. More adults aged 45-49 are getting screened, leading to a surge in early-stage diagnoses.⁵ That is a good thing, because this can lead to better outcomes and less expensive treatments.

Aflac’s powerful reminder for Americans to get checked for cancer comes from the heart, but its origins come from decades of experience and data that show that while treatments may be improving and more people are surviving, cancer remains a leading health concern. You have the power to help change that. Know your risks and get checked for cancer. For resources and information on screening guidelines and risk factors, visit Aflac.com/CheckForCancer. And please help us share the message. Post on social media using #CheckForCancer and Aflac will donate $5 to support childhood cancer care and research, up to $1 million.

¹American Cancer Society, Lifetime Risk of Developing or Dying From Cancer, https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/understanding-cancer-risk/lifetime-probability-of-developing-or-dying-from-cancer.html

²American Cancer Society, Risk of Dying from Cancer Continues to Drop at Accelerated Pace, https://www.cancer.org/research/acs-research-news/facts-and-figures-2022.html

³JAMA Network, Estimated out-of-pocket costs for patients with common cancers and private insurance, page 1, https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2836518?resultClick=1

⁴Prevent Cancer Foundation, https://preventcancer.org/news/65-of-americans-21-years-of-age-and-older-report-not-being-up-to-date-on-at-least-one-routine-cancer-screening/

⁵Wall Street Journal, A turning point in colon cancer: Young people are finding it earlier, https://www.wsj.com/health/healthcare/colon-cancer-screening-young-adults-5900a8a6?mod=Searchresults_pos1&page=1

C4C2522

2025-09-03T06:01:00

(BPT) – A diagnosis of advanced ovarian cancer can feel overwhelming, emotionally, physically and mentally. There are many decisions to make, and one empowering way to take control is to understand as much as possible about your specific tumor.

For people diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer, this means knowing your tumor’s HRD status, which can help your health care team treat your specific type of cancer.¹ The more information your doctors have, the better equipped they are to recommend a treatment plan that fits you.

Understanding HRD

HRD stands for homologous recombination deficiency, a term that refers to a tumor’s inability to repair certain types of DNA damage, which impacts how cancer cells grow, die and respond to different treatments.² About 50% of people with advanced ovarian cancer have tumors that are HRD-positive, which is why testing can be so important.²

To find out your HRD status, doctors may recommend a tumor test, also known as a genomic or biomarker test.³ This type of test looks at the DNA in your tumor to detect both inherited and acquired mutations.³ It can identify changes that may influence how your cancer grows or responds to treatment.¹

This is different from genetic testing, which looks at inherited genes in your DNA (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2). Genetic tests can help identify the potential for developing certain diseases, including some cancers.³

The Importance of HRD Testing

When doctors understand more about a tumor’s biology, including biomarkers like HRD, they can tailor treatments more precisely. This approach, called precision or personalized medicine, helps match you with therapies that are most likely to be effective for your specific type of cancer and avoid those that are less likely to help.³

Treatment options for advanced ovarian cancer could depend on the results of your HRD status and may include surgery, chemotherapy or targeted therapies.⁴

How Do I Get Tested?

The first step is simple: talk to your doctor about HRD testing. It usually requires a tissue sample from a tumor, which may be collected during surgery or a biopsy.¹ Your health care team can explain the process and what your results might mean for your treatment.

Support To Help You Feel Informed

When you understand your cancer more fully, you may feel more equipped to ask questions, make decisions and share what matters most to you. That kind of clarity can help you feel supported and heard throughout your journey.

To help you get started, TestForHRD.com offers trusted resources, including:

• A Doctor Discussion Guide to support conversations with your care team
• An FAQ section based on common patient experiences
• Additional insights and tools to help you feel more confident and less alone

Take the next step in understanding your diagnosis. Visit TestForHRD.com for information and support.

References:

1 Medical News Today. What to know about HRD testing for ovarian cancer. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hrd-positive-ovarian-cancer.

2 AstraZeneca Precision Medicine. HRD in Advanced Ovarian Cancer. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://www.azprecisionmed.com/ovarian-cancer/hrd-testing.

3 National Cancer Institute. Biomarker testing for cancer treatment. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/biomarker-testing-cancer-treatment.

4 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treatment of Ovarian Cancer. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/ovarian-cancer/treatment/index.html.

US-103453 Last Updated 7/25

2025-08-28T14:31:00

(BPT) – There truly is no place like home. It is our haven, filled with our favorite things. It is comfortable and familiar. It makes sense, then, that receiving healthcare at home is sometimes viewed more positively than in a clinical setting.

While some procedures and screenings still need to be conducted elsewhere, increasingly, caregivers and those who receive care are looking to tap into the benefits of at-home care. Not only is it convenient, but it can also be more personalized and cost-effective. It also helps older adults maintain independence as they can manage scheduling without needing to arrange transportation.

Fortunately, there are a growing number of ways individuals can manage their healthcare needs, whether independently or with the help of a caregiver, from the comfort of home. AARP members can take advantage of member benefits that can help them bring healthcare home and even save money while doing so.

Stay healthy at home

Focusing on preventive care is a great step toward avoiding urgent off-site appointments with a physician. Regular visits with a primary care provider can help monitor for any issues and even help prevent future ailments.

Oak Street Health provides personalized care for older adults on Medicare, designed to help you stay healthy and independent. AARP members and non-members get same-day/next-day appointments where available, a dedicated care team, and a 24/7 patient support line. Oak Street Health has over 240 primary care doctor offices across 27 states.

Improve balance from your basement

Physical therapy can be an important part of recovery, overcoming an ongoing ailment or simply improving balance, flexibility or strength. For many older adults, scheduling physical therapy sessions might require coordinating with a family member or caregiver, especially if they are unable to drive.

Fortunately, AARP members and non-members alike can take advantage of physical therapy without leaving home through AARP^® Physical Therapy At Home™ by Luna. Not only is it simple and convenient, but by receiving therapy in a personal setting, you’re more likely to continue doing the exercises on your own. It can feel easier to mirror your therapist’s instructions when the surroundings are the same, and you’re likely to feel more comfortable doing so than if the setting were to change. Most insurances and Medicare are accepted by Luna and a prescription may not be needed to start.

Confidently enjoy self-care

Some tools help make caring for yourself at home even easier. If you are on a complex medication regimen, tools like Hero Smart Pill Dispenser, which stores, sorts and dispenses up to a 90-day supply of 10 different medications, can keep you on track. The connected medication management app helps you manage medication routines, track your supply and understand your adherence. AARP members get exclusive savings on a Hero subscription.

Lifeline medical alert systems also allow you to be at home independently, without fear of what to do in an emergency. Lifeline systems connect you to a trained care specialist with just the press of a button. Members save 15% on medical alert service and get free shipping and activation. You can select the service option that fits your lifestyle and get fast, 24/7/365 access to help when you need it.

Look ahead to long-term care

For some, the ability to stay at home even when additional care becomes necessary is especially important. Long-term care coverage can help do just that, providing access to services that can help you meet medical and non-medical care needs if you are unable to manage them yourself. Reviewing information on long-term care options can help you prepare for the future with customized solutions to help protect your assets and lifestyle.

While every healthcare journey is different, the growing number of in-home options provides even greater flexibility in how to provide and receive care. To learn more about these and other ways to manage health at home, visit aarp.org/benefits.

AARP and its affiliates are not insurers, agents, brokers or producers. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.

2025-08-14T11:01:00

(BPT) – Werewolf Therapeutics’ clinical trials are underway and they’re already changing lives.

For one patient with metastatic cancer, a clinical trial has led to his life-changing breakthrough. This powerful moment has inspired the “Full Moon Moment” campaign by Werewolf Therapeutics (NASDAQ: HOWL), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering a new class of conditionally activated cytokine therapies. The campaign aims to highlight Full Moon Moments in Werewolf clinical trials.

The inspiration behind the campaign is a patient at HonorHealth Cancer Center with metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma who experienced a complete response to Werewolf’s investigational therapy, WTX-124. More than a year later, that patient’s response remains sustained, offering a powerful illustration of the potential for selectively activated immune therapies in the fight against cancer.

A Novel Approach to Fighting Cancer

Werewolf’s investigational* INDUKINE™ molecules are designed to activate the body’s own immune system to fight cancer, with a focus on minimizing side effects often associated with other treatments. The company’s approach targets diverse and difficult-to-treat cancers that may be resistant to other therapies.

Two key therapies are currently in clinical trials:

• WTX-124 is designed to harness the IL-2 cytokine to directly stimulate cancer-fighting immune cells within the tumor
• WTX-330 is designed to employ IL-12 to activate a wide range of immune cells to trigger a broad and rapid immune response against the cancer

Are You or a Loved One a Candidate for a Clinical Trial?

For patients and caregivers exploring treatment options for advanced cancers, Werewolf’s clinical trials may offer a new path forward. Specific details for each trial are listed below.

WTX-124 Clinical Trial (NCT05660384)

This trial is evaluating WTX-124 for patients with several types of advanced or metastatic solid tumors. It is currently focused on individuals with specific skin cancer and other malignancies where immunotherapy is a critical part of the treatment, including:

• Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma
• Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
• Renal Cell Carcinoma
• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

WTX-330 Clinical Trial (NCT06939283)

This study is evaluating WTX-330 in adults with certain advanced solid tumors or lymphoma. The trial is enrolling patients with specific cancers who have progressed on other standard therapies. The trial arms are focused on patients with:

• Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma that has shown resistance to other checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapies
• Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (specifically microsatellite-stable or MSS) that is immunotherapy-naïve
• Advanced Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, including follicular lymphoma or diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, who have relapsed or have disease that is resistant to at least two prior therapies

As these therapies continue to be studied, Werewolf Therapeutics hopes to create more “Full Moon Moments” with the potential to change the lives of patients with cancer.

It is important for patients to discuss all treatment options, including the potential risks and benefits of joining a clinical study, with their healthcare professional.

To learn more about these ongoing clinical trials, please visit https://werewolftx.com/clinical-trials/ or contact clinicaltrials@werewolftx.com.

*WTX-124 and WTX-330 are Investigational therapies and have not been approved by the FDA or any other regulatory agency.

2025-08-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – When Keira was diagnosed with alopecia areata at just 2 years old, her mother Leslie felt lost and unsure where to turn for support. “It was so isolating and lonely,” said Leslie. “I felt desperate for information and a community.”

As her daughter began attending school, the diagnosis affected Keira’s daily life in heartbreaking ways. One day, Keira told her mom, “Being the only bald kid at school is really hard.” This made Leslie more determined than ever to connect with other families who had children with alopecia.

Leslie’s search for community began with the National Alopecia Areata Foundation™ (NAAF™), which connects people living with alopecia areata, their families, caregivers and medical and scientific professionals. NAAF fosters community that drives research and treatment development, raises awareness to reduce stigma and provides support to improve lives.

Finding this community helped Leslie and Keira feel seen and connected. Leslie signed up for NAAF’s “You Are Not Alone” webinars and found a wealth of resources that helped ease their journey — including tools to help her approach Keira’s teacher, which encouraged the family to be open with the school community about her condition.

When Leslie learned about NAAF’s Walk For Alopecia™ in 2022, she created a “Walk Where You Are Team” in Minneapolis, inviting everyone who supported Keira to participate. The following year, Leslie upped her efforts with an official volunteer-led walk site inviting anyone in the Twin Cities to join.

“One of the most meaningful moments was when a man who lived with alopecia areata for over 50 years told me how healing it was to be there,” Leslie recalled. “I never imagined that by trying to build a community to support my daughter, I could help others, too.”

It’s not just hair

Alopecia areata is a common autoimmune skin disease, in which the body’s immune system mistakes healthy tissues as dangerous and begins attacking them. “Alopecia” means bald and “areata” means patchy. The disease causes hair loss on the scalp, face and sometimes other body areas, like under the arms or on the legs. People with alopecia areata most often lose hair in circular, coin-sized patches on the scalp, but in more severe cases they may lose all their hair.

Hair loss often first appears during childhood, but how and when is different for everyone.

The chronic and unpredictable nature of alopecia areata can cause profound psychological impact, including loss of self-identity, depression, withdrawal and even suicidal ideation. Although it is frequently dismissed as a cosmetic condition, alopecia areata can be a deeply traumatic experience, resulting in emotional and economic pain and social isolation.

About 2% of people worldwide and nearly 7 million Americans will experience alopecia areata at some point in their lifetime. People of all ages, genders and racial and ethnic groups are affected by alopecia areata. New FDA-approved treatments driven by NAAF and the alopecia areata community allow some people living with severe alopecia areata to safely and effectively regrow their hair, but more research is needed, and there are many potential new treatments in the drug development pipeline.

How you can make a difference

Through the Walk For Alopecia Presented by Pfizer, anyone anywhere can have a direct impact on alopecia areata treatment development, as well as helping to fund services and resources for people living with alopecia areata and their families. The Walk For Alopecia is the world’s largest alopecia areata awareness and fundraising campaign, acting as the finale of Alopecia Areata Awareness Month each September. The Walk brings the alopecia areata community together, empowering individuals, families and the public to advance the change they want to see by directly funding programs and research, while shining a light on a disease which often lives in the shadows.

“Participating in the Walk For Alopecia really helped us talk about alopecia to other people. I learned a lot, and it helped us feel less nervous about what Keira might experience in life,” Leslie said. “Now we feel so much more connected to everyone on the alopecia journey, and we know we are not alone!”

Ready to make a difference in a fun, active and meaningful way? Register today for the Third Annual Walk For Alopecia on Saturday, Sept. 27, at over 20 nationwide locations — or if there isn’t a walk near you, you can “Walk Where You Are” as an individual or team in your neighborhood to shine a bright light on alopecia areata. Visit NAAF.org/walk for information and to register.

2025-08-11T05:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know we consume an extra 300 calories every time we eat out? Those meals add up fast, fueling chronic disease and cutting years off our lives. We know cooking at home can feel like a challenge in our fast-paced, time-crunched days, but New York Times best-selling author Dan Buettner is ready to get you back in the kitchen with recipes that are easier, faster, and more satisfying than ever.

Inspired by the blue zones — places around the world with the longest-living, healthy people — and using flavor profiles Americans love, The Blue Zones Kitchen One Pot Meals offers recipes to meet you where you are, whether you have 30 minutes or five. It’s never been easier to add years to your life with what’s on your plate.

If you have 30 minutes

Skip dining out in favor of a healthier, homemade risotto. The Blue Zones Broccoli & Lemon Risotto takes 25 to 30 minutes to whip up in one pot, and is highly nutritious with health benefits from cruciferous broccoli, protein from miso, and tons of fiber from the rice and veggies.

If you have 20 minutes

Some studies show the average American eats about 60 burgers per year. That’s a lot of not-so-good-for-you red meat. Our Blue Zones Burger, on the other hand, combines two quintessential good-for-you Bule Zones ingredients — legumes (black lentils) and purple sweet potatoes — into tasty patties that work just as well on a salad as they do on a bun.

If you have 15 minutes

Herbaceous Creamy White Bean & Tomato Soup brings all the comfort of nostalgic tomato soup, with an extra burst of flavor. Thickened with white beans and tofu, this one pot supper takes 15 minutes to prepare and can be eaten as leftovers for lunch the next day.

If you have 10 minutes

There’s an exciting and rich food culture in Hawaii, which is also home to a number of Blue Zones Project Cities. Inspired by poke bowls found throughout the islands, we created a Tropical Poke Bowl that replaces fish with Blue Zones all-stars: legumes, purple sweet potatoes, leafy greens, whole grains, seaweed, and fresh pineapple.

If you have 5 minutes

Enjoy a taste of the blue zones in minutes with Blue Zones Kitchen’s ready-to-heat meals. The ultimate shortcut when you don’t have time to cook, these nourishing meals are chef-made with real, whole food plant-based ingredients and inspired by the recipes and flavors of the blue zones. These maniacally delicious meals contain no added sugar, preservatives or industrial seed oils and are a good source of protein and fiber.

Eat the blue zones way with The Blue Zones Kitchen One Pot Meals, available wherever books are sold. And make lunch or dinner in a snap with Blue Zones Kitchen’s delicious meals, available in the freezer aisle at your local grocery store.