2018-11-05T06:01:00

(BPT) – –

2018-11-05T06:01:00

(BPT) – Eric Jones, of southern New Jersey, is not your typical volunteer firefighter. Jones, who works as a communications technician by day and a firefighter by night, has worked and fought fires with a prosthetic leg since the mid-1990s. Eric was diagnosed with cancer when he was 11 years old and required the amputation of his right leg above the knee. Years of activity and injury began to deteriorate both his quality of life and the functionality of his left knee.

Not unlike many people with knee pain, Jones’ issues started with an injury. “I tore my meniscus, then I had it scoped, and a few years went by. The pain started to get gradually worse and got to a point where I needed to do something,” said Jones, who began to change the way he went about his days to reduce the ongoing knee pain.

“I wouldn’t go to outings. If there was walking involved, I wouldn’t walk. I stopped riding the fire truck and fighting fires, and my attitude became negative. Being in pain made me upset.”

Even with the physical and emotional pain he was experiencing, Jones was still hesitant to make the decision to have knee replacement surgery. Like Jones, many people dealing with knee pain find ways to change their lifestyle and daily activities to avoid consulting a doctor or considering replacement surgery.

All that changed during one pivotal moment.

“One day when I was taking the trash out to the bin — literally 20 feet from my door — I was experiencing such severe pain that I couldn’t get back to my house. Instead I had to walk backwards to my front door, sit down and scoot myself back to my bed until the pain went away.”

For Jones, it was at that moment he knew he had to find something to make a difference in his life and talk to a doctor.

This type of severe knee pain is most commonly due to osteoarthritis, a form of arthritis that is caused by a wear and tear of the joints¹. It’s a progressive, degenerative condition that gets worse over time and impacts approximately 30 million U.S. adults¹.

Jones met with Zachary Post, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon from the Rothman Institute in Philadelphia, PA, to discuss his options. Jones recalled the experience: “I went to see Dr. Post and we talked about knee replacement surgery, talked about my concerns including infection, and most importantly, me losing my other leg … I was scared.”

Although knee replacement surgery is a common procedure performed more than 760,000 times each year in the U.S. alone², there are always concerns for people about major surgery and for Jones this was no different.  

During their discussion, Jones and Dr. Post together decided that the ATTUNE^® Knee would be the right choice for him. He had surgery for a knee replacement in early 2018.

Jones worked hard at prescribed physical therapy and rehabilitation and then resumed work on his own at the gym to continue strengthening his knee. So far, he has had three follow-up visits with his surgeon and is doing well.  

“Eric almost couldn’t use his prosthesis anymore because his left leg didn’t support him enough, so he walked with crutches,” Dr. Post recalls. “Gradually during the weeks following surgery we noticed he was able to start doing things he hadn’t done in a long time. At his six-month visit he walked in without crutches, something we’d never seen him do before!”

Walking around in his home away from home, the firehouse, surrounded by his hard-earned “Fireman of the Year Award” and fellow firemen, Jones talks about his quality of life and how things have changed. “My quality of life has changed and I’m not in pain anymore. I can do more, and my body is changing because I’m being active and losing weight. Things are getting better.”

It’s important to remember that the performance of knee replacements depends on age, weight, activity level and other factors. There are potential risks and recovery takes time. People with conditions limiting rehabilitation should not have these surgeries. Only an orthopaedic surgeon can determine if knee replacement is necessary based on an individual patient’s condition.

For more information and to hear more stories from people who have received the ATTUNE Knee, visit www.ATTUNEknee.com.

© DePuy Synthes 2018. All rights reserved.

100865-181016 DSUS

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¹ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Osteoarthritis. Downloaded October 30, 2018 https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm

22017 GlobalData.

2018-11-02T14:01:00

(BPT) – It’s 6 a.m. in Bell County, Texas. The sun is yet to peek over the horizon on what will become a steamy summer day, but Darrell Glaser is already strolling through his turkey houses to ensure the birds on his family farm are comfortable. The farm has been in Glaser’s family for nearly 100 years, and Darrell and his family have spent nearly every day tending to their turkeys.

At Bar G Farms, the Glasers — Darrell, his four sons and his mother — focus on raising healthy, happy birds. From monitoring and protecting them during a raucous Texas thunderstorm to checking air and water quality, the family does everything possible to ensure the well-being of their turkeys.

“Animal welfare is very important to all of us at Bar G Ranch,” Darrell said. “The happier and more comfortable the animal, the healthier they are going to be.”

Shady Brook Farms(R) understands the connection between family farms and family holiday traditions. A November 2017 survey conducted by Shady Brook Farms revealed that 80 percent of consumers agree that during the holidays, it is important for their turkey to be raised by a family farm. Shady Brook Farms turkeys raised by family farmers can be found in local retailers in the eastern United States.

In Central Missouri, Glenn and Kathy Robertson have been raising Shady Brook Farms turkeys for 45 years on their family farm, with plenty of helping hands.

“On our farm, it has always been a family event,” Glenn said. “Kathy and our four children have always helped from getting ready for new poults to cleaning the building when they go to market. Now, my son, Ryan, is going to take over with help from our 15 grandchildren who all live on the farm.”

The Robertson family is very active at church and in the local community. Glenn coaches local basketball and baseball teams, contributes on the board of special services for special needs children and serves as the Boy Scouts’ youth director. When the Robertson family gathers for Thanksgiving dinner, they will be thinking about those who are spending time together enjoying a turkey raised on their farm.

Quality time together is also the favorite part of Thanksgiving for the Shepherd family in Coryell County, Texas. In 2012, Jordan and Megan Shepherd started raising turkeys on Spurrin’S Farms.

“We were looking for a great place to raise a family where we could live and work together, where we could be a part of each other’s lives and help to make a difference for the better,” Jordan said. “Here we have found all of that and more.”

Jordan and Megan have two children, Jaxon and Emma Rae, and Megan’s dad, Gene, joined them on the farm. The Shepherd family raises turkeys with care and compassion, and best of all, they get to be a part of each other’s lives on a day-to-day basis.

These family farmers are thriving raising holiday turkeys. They have a passion for the time they spend together, the well-being of their animals and the work they do.

“We put our heart and soul into what we do. We work long and odd hours to make sure our turkeys are healthy and safe,” Darrell Glaser said. “Farming is what we do, and we love it.”

2018-11-01T07:01:02

(BPT) – If you’ve ever found yourself mapping out the nearest restrooms, going out of your way for a “pee detour,” or even packing a “just in case” set of clothes for a long road trip, you understand that the call of nature can impact your daily routine and cause you to worry when you may be far from a restroom for extended periods of time. You’re not alone: as many as 1 in 3 Americans age 40 and older have reported symptoms of urgency, frequency or leakage.^[1]

Bladder Health Month — recognized annually — marks an important time to evaluate your bladder health status, including any changes to your restroom habits that may be interfering with your daily life. In fact, new practice guidelines issued in 2018 by the Women’s Preventative Services Initiative recommend women be screened each year for urinary incontinence.^[2]

“Too often, people are embarrassed to discuss urinary changes with their loved ones or seek help from their doctor, and instead take steps to cope with their symptoms rather than address the underlying condition,” said Dr. David Staskin, a Boston-based urologist at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center. “Merely coping with your symptoms may affect your daily activities.”

Overactive bladder — sometimes referred to as “OAB” — occurs when you cannot control your bladder contractions, or when your bladder contractions happen too often. This may cause you to experience symptoms of OAB, which are urgency, frequency and leakage.^[3]

According to the American Urological Association, OAB occurs in both men and women, may affect your daily activities due to lack of bladder control and can cause embarrassment, leading some to just learn to cope with the condition.^[3]

“Anyone experiencing urinary control problems should talk to their physician. In most cases, these issues can be effectively managed,” added Dr. Staskin, who is also an associate professor at Tufts University School of Medicine. “It’s important to rule out underlying medical issues, as well as design a treatment plan that can be customized to each patient, starting with some habit changes and including medication where appropriate for symptoms with an uncontrolled urge.”

One prescription treatment option is Myrbetriq^® (mirabegron), a medication for adults used to treat the overactive bladder symptoms of urgency, frequency and leakage. It works on a different pathway to increase bladder capacity by helping to relax the smooth muscle that surrounds the bladder.

A qualified health care professional can help you evaluate any changes to your bladder health and recommend the appropriate course of treatment to best meet your needs. Many resources are available online to help you keep track of your urinary symptoms and make it easier to facilitate a discussion with your physician.

For more information about overactive bladder and lifestyle tips that can help with managing symptoms, visit www.myrbetriq.com.

Use of Myrbetriq

Myrbetriq^® (mirabegron) is a prescription medicine for adults used to treat overactive bladder (OAB) with symptoms of urgency, frequency and leakage.

Important Safety Information

Myrbetriq is not for everyone. Do not take Myrbetriq if you have an allergy to mirabegron or any ingredients in Myrbetriq. Myrbetriq may cause your blood pressure to increase or make your blood pressure worse if you have a history of high blood pressure. It is recommended that your doctor check your blood pressure while you are taking Myrbetriq. Myrbetriq may increase your chances of not being able to empty your bladder. Tell your doctor right away if you have trouble emptying your bladder or you have a weak urine stream.

Myrbetriq may cause allergic reactions that may be serious. If you experience swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue, with or without difficulty breathing, stop taking Myrbetriq and tell your doctor right away.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take including medications for overactive bladder or other medicines such as thioridazine (Mellaril™ and Mellaril-S™), flecainide (Tambocor^®), propafenone (Rythmol^®), digoxin (Lanoxin^®) or solifenacin succinate (VESIcare^®). Myrbetriq may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how Myrbetriq works.

Before taking Myrbetriq, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems. The most common side effects of Myrbetriq include increased blood pressure, common cold symptoms (nasopharyngitis), dry mouth, flu symptoms, urinary tract infection, back pain, dizziness, joint pain, headache, constipation, sinus irritation, and inflammation of the bladder (cystitis).

For further information, please talk to your healthcare professional and see Patient Product Information and complete Prescribing Information for Myrbetriq^® (mirabegron) at www.myrbetriq.com.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit https://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Myrbetriq^® is a registered trademark of Astellas Pharma Inc. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

For more information on overactive bladder, including a symptom quiz and physician locator tool, visit www.myrbetriq.com.

2018-10-31T16:01:00

(BPT) – Nearly 18 million children and adults across the United States live with atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema.¹ About 90 percent of those with eczema have the mild-to-moderate form of the disease.² Environmental changes can trigger your eczema. With the weather changing, it may be a good time to discuss a treatment plan with your doctor.³

There is no cure for eczema, but there are different treatment options available depending on various factors, including age and eczema severity.⁴ Current therapies include applying over-the-counter moisturizers and emollients, or prescription topical medications, phototherapy, immunomodulators, biologic drugs, antibiotics, and antihistamines.^5,6,7 Some people living with eczema may use natural and alternative treatments to treat their disease.⁸

If you or your child has eczema, the following information may be helpful when determining a treatment plan with your physician. 

1. Understand age restrictions.

Eczema occurs most often in childhood, but approximately 50 percent of patients diagnosed as children continue to have recurrent symptoms into adolescence and adulthood.^9,10 It’s important to understand the eczema treatment landscape and possible age restrictions for specific therapies. Check with your doctor about age restrictions of potential therapies to ensure it is appropriate for you or your child.^5,6,8

2. Factor in lifestyle habits.  

There can be multiple treatment options for eczema. It’s important to consider your lifestyle habits when selecting treatments.⁷ Some options can include applying creams or ointments, taking oral medications or prescribed injections to relieve symptoms. They may need to be used around the same time each day, like bathing or bed time.^6,7,11 Take these factors into consideration when deciding on your treatment plan, and have open conversations with your doctor to ensure you are using treatments as instructed. 

3. Recognize how symptoms affect the skin.

The face, neck, wrists, and ankles are common sites for many people, depending on their age. Places where your body bends—like your elbows or back of your knees—are also common areas affected.¹² However, eczema may appear differently on different people.^12,13 If you think you have eczema, consult with a doctor for specific recommendations around an optimal skin care plan for your individual skin type. 

4. Explore treatment options around specific disease severity.

While the severity of eczema can vary amongst different people, mild-to-moderate is the most common form of the skin disease.² EUCRISA^® (crisaborole) ointment, 2% is a 100 percent steroid-free treatment for mild-to-moderate eczema in adults and kids as young as two. EUCRISA can be used on all skin tones.¹⁴

EUCRISA is a topical treatment that can be used nose to toes. EUCRISA is for use on skin (topical use) only. Do not use EUCRISA in your eyes, mouth or vagina. It works above and below the skin to treat eczema. The active ingredient in EUCRISA is crisaborole 2%, which acts deep within skin cells to target phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4).¹⁴ PDE4 is an enzyme that helps to regulate inflammation in your body. When you have eczema, PDE4 enzymes may be overactive in your skin cells. This can lead to inflammation in your skin. Reducing PDE4 activity decreases substances in your skin that are thought to cause inflammation related to eczema.^15,16,17 The specific way EUCRISA works is not well defined.¹⁴

Crisaborole is combined with an Emollient-Rich Vehicle ointment. Ointments contain emollients, which can help lock in moisture and soften the skin.^14,18

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION & INDICATION 

Do not use EUCRISA if you are allergic to crisaborole or any of the ingredients in EUCRISA. 

EUCRISA may cause side effects including allergic reactions at or near the application site. These can be serious and may include hives, itching, swelling, and redness. If you have any of these symptoms, stop using EUCRISA and get medical help right away. 

The most common side effect of EUCRISA is application site pain, such as burning or stinging. 

EUCRISA is for use on skin (topical use) only. Do not use EUCRISA in your eyes, mouth, or vagina. 

INDICATION 

EUCRISA is a prescription ointment used on the skin (topical) to treat mild-to-moderate eczema (atopic dermatitis) in adults and children 2 years of age and older. 

See Full Prescribing Information at EUCRISA.com.

The information above, along with the treatment regimen that you and your doctor decide upon, may help provide a better understanding of your eczema. If you have additional questions, be sure to speak with your doctor. 

For more information about EUCRISA, visit www.EUCRISA.com or call 1-866-EUCRISA (1-866-382-7472). 

The EUCRISA Copay Savings Card is now available for eligible patients for as little as $10.* You can receive your card by texting EOFFER4 to 42762 or by visiting our website: https://www.eucrisa.com/eucrisa-4-you.  

Patients enrolled in a state or federally funded prescription insurance program may not use this savings card even if they elect to be processed as uninsured (cash-paying) patients. 

By opting into the EUCRISA mobile program, you consent to receive up to 10 marketing or not-marketing text messages and/or push notifications per month from Pfizer Inc., such as refill reminders, fill confirmation and website information. 

*Eligibility required. Individual savings are limited to $700 per tube. Individual patient savings are limited to $2,800 in maximum total savings per calendar year. Full terms and conditions apply. This Card will be accepted only at participating pharmacies. This Card is not health insurance.

Eucrisa.com 1-866-382-7472 Pfizer Inc. PO Box 29387, Mission, KS 66201 

This article is sponsored by Pfizer Inc. 

PP-CRI-USA-1499 

### 

[1] Hanifin JM, Reed ML. A population-based survey of eczema in the United States. Dermatitis. 2007;18(2):82-91.

[2] Paller AS, Tom WL, Lebwohl MG, et al. Efficacy and safety of crisaborole ointment, a novel, nonsteroidal phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor for the topical treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children and adults. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;75(3):494-503.

[3] Oszukowska M, Michalak I, Gutfreund K, et al. Role of primary and secondary prevention in atopic dermatitis. Postep Derm Alergol. 2015;32(6):409-420.

[4] Ellis C, Luger T, Abeck D, et al. International consensus conference on atopic dermatitis II (ICCAD II*): clinical update and current treatment strategies. Br J Dermatol. 2003;148(Suppl. 63):3-10.

[5] Sidbury R, Davis DM, Cohen DE, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis: Section 3. Management and treatment with phototherapy and systemic agents. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71(2):327-349.

[6] Thomsen SF. Atopic dermatitis: natural history, diagnosis, and treatment. ISRN Allergy. 2014;354250:1-7.

[7] National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. What Is Atopic Dermatitis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Web site. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/atopic_dermatitis/atopic_dermatitis_ff.asp. Accessed on January 5, 2017.

[8] Hanifin JM, Cooper KD, Ho VC, et al. Guidelines of care of atopic dermatitis, developed in accordance with the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)/American Academy of Dermatology Association “Administrative Regulations for Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines”. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;50(3):391-404.

[9] Leung DYM. New insights into atopic dermatitis: Role of skin barrier and immune dysregulation. Allergol Int. 2013;62(2):151-161.

[10] Williams HC, Strachan DP. The natural history of childhood eczema: observations from the British 1958 birth cohort study. Br J Dermatol. 1998;139(5):834-839.

[11] Beck LA, Thaçi D, Hamilton JD, et al. Dupilumab Treatment in Adults with Moderate-to-Severe Atopic Dermatitis. N Engl J Med. 2014;371(2):130-139.

[12] Bieber T. Atopic dermatitis. Dermatol. 2012;1(3):203-217.

[13] Kaufman BP, Guttman-Yassky E, Alexis AF. Atopic dermatitis in diverse racial and ethnic groups- Variations in epidemiology, genetics, clinical presentation and treatment. Experimental Dermatology. 2018;27:340–357.

[14] EUCRISA^® (crisaborole). Full Prescribing Information. October 2017.

[15] Jarnagin K, Chanda S, Coronado D, Ciaravino V, et al. Crisaborole topical ointment, 2%: A nonsteroidal, topical, anti-inflammatory phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor in clinical development for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. J Drugs Dermatol. 2016;15(4):390-396.

[16] Chan SC, Reifsnyder D, Beavo JA, Hanifin JM. Immunochemical characterization of the distinct monocyte cyclic AMP-phosphodiesterase from patients with atopic dermatitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1993;91(6):1179-1188.

[17] Sawai T, Uehara M. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate phosphodiesterase activity in peripheral blood mononuclear leucocytes from patients with atopic dermatitis: correction with respiratory atopy. Br J Dermatol. 1998;138(5):846-848.

[18] Eichenfield LF, Tom WL, Berger TG, Krol A, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis. Section 2: Management and treatment of atopic dermatitis with topical therapies. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71(1):116–132.

2018-10-30T14:37:00

“Strokes are irrevocably life-changing, and it’s important that people know their risk and take action,” Eisenberg said. “We hope World Stroke Day reminds people to talk to their doctor about managing cholesterol. When diet and exercise are not enough, there are prescription medicines that may help to reduce the risk of stroke.” 

World Stroke Day is an initiative of the World Stroke Organization. This year’s observance will focus on raising awareness of key issues and the needs of stroke survivors and caregivers. 

Important Safety Information

Do not use Repatha^® if you are allergic to evolocumab or to any of the ingredients in Repatha.

Before you start using Repatha^®, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you are allergic to rubber or latex, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. The needle covers on the single-use prefilled syringes and the inside of the needle caps on the single-use prefilled SureClick^® autoinjectors contain dry natural rubber. The single-use Pushtronex^® system (on-body infusor with prefilled cartridge) is not made with natural rubber latex.

Tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist about any prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements you take.

What are the possible side effects of Repatha^®?

Repatha^® can cause serious side effects including, serious allergic reactions. Stop taking Repatha^® and call your healthcare provider or seek emergency help right away if you have any of these symptoms: trouble breathing or swallowing, raised bumps (hives), rash or itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat or arms.

The most common side effects of Repatha^® include: runny nose, sore throat, symptoms of the common cold, flu or flu-like symptoms, back pain, high blood sugar levels (diabetes) and redness, pain, or bruising at the injection site.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

These are not all the possible side effects of Repatha^®. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1–800–FDA–1088. 

Approved Use Repatha^® is an injectable prescription medicine used:

• in adults with cardiovascular disease to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and certain types of heart surgery.
• along with diet alone or together with other cholesterol-lowering medicines in adults with high blood cholesterol levels called primary hyperlipidemia (including a type of high cholesterol called heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia) to reduce low density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol. 

Please see full Prescribing Information and Patient Product Information.                

References 

1 AHA. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics, 2017. Available at: https://healthmetrics.heart.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Heart-Disease-and-Stroke-Statistics-2017-ucm_491265.pdf. Accessed November 9, 2017.

2 Brown AF, Liang LJ, Vassar SD, et al. Annals of Internal Medicine. Trends in Racial/Ethnic and Nativity Disparities in Cardiovascular Health Among Adults Without Prevalent Cardiovascular Disease in the United States, 1988 to 2014. 2018.

3 Centers for Disease Control. Preventing Stroke Deaths. Available at:  https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/stroke/. Accessed April 10, 2018.

4 American Heart Association. About Cholesterol. Available at:  http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/AboutCholesterol/About-  Cholesterol_UCM_001220_Article.jsp#.Ws4mMi7wapp. Accessed April 10, 2018.

5 Repatha^® (evolocumab) Prescribing Information. Amgen.

2018-10-29T07:01:00

(BPT) – According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly one in five adults in the United States lives with mental illness. That’s over 43 million Americans — more than the populations of New York and Florida combined.

While the larger U.S. population is at risk for developing a mental illness in their lifetime, low-income Americans — including those on Medicaid — can be particularly vulnerable. According to a study from the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), low levels of household income were associated with several lifetime mental disorders and suicide attempts. Further, the study found a reduction in household income was associated with an increased risk for incident mental disorders.

“Mental health conditions often involve a host of factors, including a person’s physical, social and economic circumstances, and disproportionately affect our nation’s most vulnerable populations,” said Dr. Mark Leenay, executive vice president and chief medical officer of WellCare Health Plans, Inc. “All stakeholders — from health, political and policy perspectives — need to consider the whole person and their surroundings to make inroads into successfully addressing our country’s mental health epidemic.”

According to WellCare, there are three critical factors to consider for improving overall mental health and well-being for all Americans:

* Take on Stigma. The nation continues to struggle with the stigma of mental health. It is only through open dialogue, empathy and education that we will begin to break down stigma and treat mental health as we would any other health condition.

* Address Access to Mental Healthcare and Substance Abuse Treatment. According to the National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 60 percent of adults with a mental illness didn’t receive mental health services in the previous year. African Americans and Hispanic Americans each use mental health services at about one-half the rate of whites. And, when it comes to substance abuse, the rates are even higher, with nearly 88 percent of people age 12 and older who identify as needing treatment not receiving it.

* Go Beyond Healthcare. It’s difficult to prioritize mental health treatment when you and your family don’t have a place to live or transportation to and from work, school or medical appointments. In fact, a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) survey revealed nearly 7 percent of people did not receive substance abuse treatment because they didn’t have transportation. By building connections between healthcare and social services, those barriers can be addressed. There are a number of social support services available in local communities to help with social and economic barriers to care.

The care teams at WellCare work one-on-one with members not only to coordinate their medical care, but to also help provide social support services, like assistance finding transportation to medical appointments, housing assistance and discharge planning, among others. This holistic approach is showing early signs of success, with an overall increase in the number of Medicaid members receiving residential treatment to address substance abuse, as well as increases in New Jersey, for example, in psychological services and reductions in inpatient admissions costs.

If you or someone you know needs assistance with housing, transportation, food or other social supports, WellCare may be able to help through its Community Connections Help Line, which connects callers with local support resources. For help, call 866-775-2192, where someone is available Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (local time).

2018-10-29T07:01:00

(BPT) – A skeptic at first, 71-year-old Clara Tanner began her journey on dialysis treating in a center even though her son, who is her care partner and an experienced dialysis technician, continually tried to convince her to make the switch to home dialysis. After a year of going into a center for treatment, Tanner switched to treating in her home, and she’s stayed with that treatment option for the past 10 years.

“He kept telling me I needed to come home, but I wasn’t ready,” Tanner said. “I didn’t know what it was all about.”

For many people on home dialysis, having more flexibility and freedom when it comes to their treatment schedule is important and can help prevent missed treatments. Missing a treatment has never been an issue for Tanner.

“Home dialysis allows people on dialysis to dialyze from the comfort of their home, giving them better control of their treatment schedules, more time for themselves, their families, their jobs and the activities they enjoyed before starting dialysis,” said Dr. Martin Schreiber, chief medical officer of Home Modalities for DaVita Kidney Care.

There are two types of dialysis that can be done at home: peritoneal dialysis (PD) and home hemodialysis (HHD).

PD is a needle-free dialysis treatment that’s most similar to a person’s natural kidney function. Instead of cleaning the blood outside of the body, PD uses the person’s peritoneum, which acts as a filter to remove toxins and fluid in place of the kidneys. It can be done during the day at home or work, at night during sleep — or potentially even on vacation.

HHD uses a machine with a filter to remove fluid and waste from the blood. HHD treatments can be done on a person’s own schedule and in the privacy of their home.

A nephrologist, which is a physician who specializes in kidney care, guides people with kidney disease to help identify the best treatment option for them. While home dialysis treatments primarily take place in the home, people on PD and HHD still come into a center about once a month for support.

Tanner worked with her physician when considering switching to HHD treatments. Her physician also prescribed a treatment plan that works best for her condition and lifestyle to help her manage her treatment schedule.

That said, Tanner cautions that being on HHD doesn’t give a person a license to slack off.

“You have to have discipline,” Tanner said. “You’ve got to do what you’re supposed to do and diet is so important.”

Not only is each type of home dialysis treatment different, but every person on home dialysis is unique. Dietitians who specialize in helping people on dialysis with their diets take into consideration a person’s lab results, access to food and food preparation, weight, malnutrition and other factors to help come up with diets that work best for the individual. For example, Tanner loves watermelon but, because it’s high in potassium, she has a strategy to control her cravings.

“When I want watermelon, I cut out everything else that has potassium,” Tanner said. “Everything should be done in moderation.”

One piece of advice Tanner recommends: “Ask questions so you can be aware and don’t assume you know.”

To learn more, visit DaVita.com/Home.

2018-10-29T07:01:00

(BPT) – Does the thought of a bed bug infestation send a shiver down your spine? Do you immediately think of insects hiding in beds? Did you know that bed bugs aren’t just found in those places? The experts at Terminix are here to clear up some common misconceptions and provide information so that you can be more prepared than scared if you ever find yourself dealing with these pests.

What are bed bugs?

If you’ve never seen one, you may not know what the insect looks like. Bed bugs are wingless, small and reddish-brown in color, with an oval-shaped body. Because they feed on blood, they seek out hosts, including humans, to survive. 

These bugs can be found in close proximity to their food sources — namely under mattresses and near headboards. But don’t be fooled by their name; they aren’t only found in beds. These insects can also hide in hotel luggage racks, behind walls and even in piles of dirty laundry.

How do they spread?

In addition to residential areas, bed bugs can be present in a wide variety of environments including taxis, transit stations, theaters and hotels. But without wings, how does a bed bug get to any of these places? The answer lies in their ability to hitchhike: The insects are experts at travel and can stow away in personal belongings like clothing, purses and luggage. They can even hitch rides on furniture as it’s being moved from place to place! 

What problems do they cause?

Fortunately, bed bugs aren’t known to carry any pathogens that cause sickness in humans. Unfortunately, the insects still look for hosts. In their search for a meal, they’ll bite almost any area of exposed skin, which can cause mild to moderate allergic reactions and itchy welts.

How can you avoid getting bed bugs?

It’s next to impossible to stop frequenting places like buses and hotels that could house the insects. A better approach is to take steps that will minimize the risk of bringing the critters home with you. When traveling, be aware of your clothes and any personal belongings that could act as a free ride for a bed bug. Inspect hotel rooms and your own home for signs of bed bugs such as blood spots and shed skin. And don’t forget to check any clothing or furniture you bring into your home, whether it’s new or used. 

How do you get rid of them?

Even the cleanest person can end up with a bed bug infestation. The pests can be extremely difficult to remove, so it’s best to forgo the do-it-yourself methods and let the professionals handle the issue. Terminix’s trained technicians can help evaluate the infestation and create a treatment plan that will have you sleeping tight — without the bed bug bites.

2018-10-28T07:01:00

(BPT) – An estimated 125 million people across the world live with psoriasis, a disease that affects not only the skin, but can also shape daily life.^1,2 For Evelyn Weisz, plaque psoriasis impacted both the health of her skin as well as her law career and social life.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of cells, causing them to build up more rapidly on the surface of the skin. The result is itchy and sometimes painful patches covered with thick, silvery scales.³ World Psoriasis Day, on October 29^th is dedicated to improving understanding, management, and treatment of this disease that affects so many millions of people.¹

For Weisz, who was diagnosed with plaque psoriasis at age 31, the disease affected every part of her body except her face. The red, itchy patches were the worst on her feet and hands — so much so that she wore white gloves for six months to protect them and hide them from her friends, coworkers, and clients. Over time, Weisz was concealing more than just her hands. She was hiding herself away to avoid interacting with others, and she felt increasingly self-conscious and isolated.

“After 25 years of practicing corporate law, I had to step away from my job. Not only had plaque psoriasis drained me of my energy and outgoing personality, but it took away my career, too,” said Weisz, 56. “Between my skin and nearly a dozen repeated failures with topical and phototherapy treatments, I felt like I was at the end of my rope. I decided to reach out to my doctor to discuss my treatment options.”

Since it works differently than other treatments by blocking a specific group of proteins at the site of inflammation, Weisz’s dermatologist recommended she try SILIQ™ (brodalumab) injection, a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet light treatment), and who have tried other systemic therapies that didn’t work or stopped working. It is not known whether SILIQ is safe and effective in children.⁴

Two months later, Weisz found relief and her skin cleared significantly. “I stopped wearing my gloves,” she said. “Being able to comfortably shake hands with someone — something so simple — has been the best feeling.”

“This World Psoriasis Day I plan to share my journey with plaque psoriasis with the hope of inspiring others to work with their dermatologists and identify the treatment that’s right for them,” Weisz said. “And I look forward to celebrating the day comfortable in my own skin — without my gloves.”

If you have psoriasis, talk to your health care provider about potential treatment options. For more information about SILIQ and complete prescribing information, visit www.siliq.com.

Important Safety Information

What is SILIQ?

SILIQ^TM injection is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis:

• who may benefit from injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet light treatment)

and

• who have tried another systemic therapy that didn’t work or stopped working

It is not known if SILIQ is safe and effective in children.

What is the most important information I should know about SILIQ?

Suicidal thoughts or behavior: Some patients taking SILIQ have had suicidal thoughts or ended their own lives. This risk is higher if you have a history of suicidal thoughts or depression. It is not known if SILIQ causes these thoughts or actions.

Get medical help right away if you or a family member notices that you have any of the following symptoms:

• new or worsening depression, anxiety, or mood problems
• thoughts of suicide, dying, or hurting yourself
• attempt to commit suicide, or acting on dangerous impulses
• other unusual changes in your behavior or mood

Your healthcare provider will give you a SILIQ patient/wallet card about symptoms that need medical attention right away. Carry the card with you during treatment with SILIQ and show it to all of your healthcare providers.

Serious Infections: SILIQ may lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections and may increase your risk of infections.

• Your healthcare provider should check you for tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment with SILIQ and may treat you for TB before starting SILIQ if you have TB or a history of it
• You and your healthcare provider need to watch closely for signs and symptoms of infection during treatment with SILIQ, including fever, sweats, chills, shortness of breath, stomach issues, muscle aches, cough, sore throat or trouble swallowing, warm/red/painful skin sores, burning while urinating or more frequent urination

Who should not use SILIQ?

Do not use SILIQ if you have Crohn’s disease. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop diarrhea, bloody stools, stomach pain or cramping, sudden or uncontrollable bowel movements, loss of appetite, constipation, weight loss, fever or tiredness as these may be symptoms of Crohn’s disease.

Before starting SILIQ, tell your healthcare provider if you:

• have a history of mental health problems, including suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, or mood problems
• have an infection that does not go away or keeps coming back
• have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB
• have recently received or are scheduled to receive an immunization (vaccine). You should avoid getting live vaccines while being treated with SILIQ
• are or plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or plan to do so. It is unknown if SILIQ can harm your unborn or newborn baby

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

How should I use SILIQ?

See the detailed “Instructions for Use” that come with your SILIQ for information on the right way to store, prepare, and give your SILIQ injections at home, and how to properly throw away (dispose of) used SILIQ prefilled syringes. Use SILIQ exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.

What are possible side effects of SILIQ?

SILIQ may cause serious side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about SILIQ?” and “Who should not take SILIQ?”

The most common side effects of SILIQ include: joint pain, muscle pain, headache, injection site reactions, tiredness, flu, diarrhea, low white blood cell count (neutropenia), mouth or throat pain, fungal infections of the skin, nausea.

Call your doctor for medical advice on side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to FDA at www.fda.gov/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Please click here for accompanying full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning about suicidal ideation and behavior, and Medication Guide.

Please click here for full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide.

SILIQ is a trademark of Ortho Dermatologics’ affiliated entities.

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References

1. National Psoriasis Foundation. (2017). World Psoriasis Day 10.29.2017. Retrieved from https://www.psoriasis.org/world-psoriasis-day. Accessed July 18, 2018.
2. World Health Organization. (2016). Psoriasis. Retrieved from http://www.who.int/ncds/management/psoriasis/en/. Accessed February 6, 2018.
3. The Mayo Clinic. (2017). Psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840. Accessed July 11, 2018.
4. SILIQ [prescribing information]. Bridgewater, NJ: Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC.

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