Category: Brandpoint Health

2024-05-20T09:01:00

(BPT) – Article is sponsored and developed by Sanofi. Natalie and Samuel were compensated by Sanofi.

When Natalie and her husband adopted four-year-old Samuel from China, they were excited to learn more about his culture and spend quality time together. However, during the process, Samuel experienced bruising and joint pain that made it difficult for him to walk. This led Natalie to consult with a doctor who recognized Samuel’s symptoms as possible signs of a rare blood disorder. Facing uncertainty about their son’s future, Natalie and her husband brought Samuel to America and prioritized his care and diagnosis.

After seeing a hematologist, Samuel was diagnosed with severe hemophilia A, a rare, lifelong condition that impairs the ability of a person’s blood to clot properly. If left untreated, it can lead to excessive or spontaneous bleeds that can result in joint damage, chronic pain, and potentially impact quality of life.¹

While prophylaxis treatment was effective for Samuel, the dosing scheduling was demanding for him, Natalie, and their family. Despite training to conduct Samuel’s infusions at home, they had days when his veins didn’t cooperate. Because of this, they switched to a subcutaneous injection administered under the skin rather than into a vein.

Then one day at school, Samuel fell out of his chair and hit his head. He didn’t show any noticeable symptoms of a bleed at first, but his condition quickly got worse.

“I forgot how to spell my name and couldn’t find my classroom anymore. I had a CT scan, and they found a minor brain bleed,” Samuel said.

“As Samuel grew up (now 12 years old), what we needed in a treatment became clear. He had to be well protected against bleeds, and we knew Samuel preferred infusions,” said Natalie. “And, of course, he wants to stay busy, so minimizing how frequently he has to infuse was a significant consideration, too.”

Embracing the Future by Switching to ALTUVIIIO^®

Natalie and Samuel spoke to their doctor about ALTUVIIIO, a once-weekly, first-in-class factor VIII replacement therapy for adults and children with hemophilia A.² They learned it offers proven bleed protection and helps keep factor levels in the normal to near-normal range (over 40%) for ~3 days in children <12 years old, and in May 2024, the US Food & Drug Administration updated ALTUVIIIO’s label to include positive results from a phase 3 study in children under 12. This pediatric study demonstrated a mean annualized bleeding rate (ABR) of 0.6 with ALTUVIIIO prophylaxis and a safety profile similar to the profile in an earlier ALTUVIIIO study for people with hemophilia A aged 12 years or older. ²

Their doctor helped them understand the benefits of switching to ALTUVIIIO and its most common side effects, including headache and joint pain in adults and adolescents, and fever in children under 12.² Since switching, Samuel has responded well to treatment, with proven bleed protection and factor activity levels.

Natalie and Samuel worked with their CoRe (Community Resource and Education Manager) and Sanofi Patient Support Services to transition to ALTUVIIIO and secure financial assistance through Sanofi’s Copay Program.

“We felt great about switching to ALTUVIIIO. We are living with a treatment and schedule that works for us and Samuel is getting the most out of being a kid,” Natalie said. “We’re also very pleased with his trough levels, which are around 15% on day seven.” Trough levels measure factor VIII in the blood, which is essential for managing the risk of bleeding.³ “Remember that each person’s hemophilia treatment plan may differ, so you need to work with your HCP to find a treatment plan that is right for you,” Natalie added.

Samuel is now able to spend plenty of time with his family at the beach, play with his friends, and master the Rubik’s Cube. Together, Natalie and Samuel encourage people living with hemophilia, and their care networks, to stay educated and engage with the community.

“If anything about your current treatment is not working for you, from bleed protection to infusion schedules, you should always be confident in advocating for your care,” Natalie emphasized.

Patient experiences on ALTUVIIIO may vary, so talk to your doctor when making treatment decisions. To learn more, visit ALTUVIIIO.com.

INDICATION

ALTUVIIIO^® [antihemophilic factor (recombinant), Fc-VWF-XTEN fusion protein-ehtl] is an injectable medicine that is used to control and reduce the number of bleeding episodes in people with hemophilia A (congenital Factor VIII deficiency).

Your healthcare provider may give you ALTUVIIIO when you have surgery.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I need to know about ALTUVIIIO?

Do not attempt to give yourself an injection unless you have been taught how by your healthcare provider or hemophilia center. You must carefully follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the dose and schedule for injecting ALTUVIIIO so that your treatment will work best for you.

Who should not use ALTUVIIIO?

You should not use ALTUVIIIO if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using ALTUVIIIO?

Tell your healthcare provider if you have had any medical problems, take any medications, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, supplements, or herbal medicines, are breastfeeding, or are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

What are the possible side effects of ALTUVIIIO?

You can have an allergic reaction to ALTUVIIIO. Call your healthcare provider or emergency department right away if you have any of the following symptoms: difficulty breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the face, rash, or hives.

Your body can also make antibodies called “inhibitors” against ALTUVIIIO. This can stop ALTUVIIIO from working properly. Your healthcare provider may give you blood tests to check for inhibitors.

The common side effects of ALTUVIIIO are headache and joint pain.

These are not the only possible side effects of ALTUVIIIO. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away.

Please see full Prescribing Information.

References

1. What is Hemophilia? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Last reviewed October 24, 2023. Accessed March 21, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/hemophilia/facts.html.
2. ALTUVIIIO [antihemophilic factor (recombinant), Fc-VWF-XTEN fusion protein-ehtl] prescribing information. Bioverativ Therapeutics, Inc. May 2024
3. Srivastava A, Santagostino E, Dougall A, et al. WFH Guidelines for the Management of Hemophilia, 3rd edition. Haemophilia. 2020;26 Suppl 6:1-158

MAT-US-2401906-v1.0-05/2024

© 2024 Sanofi. All rights reserved. ALTUVIIIO and Sanofi are registered trademarks of Sanofi or an affiliate.

2024-05-16T06:01:00

(BPT) – Putting Health First

Gym owner and avid fitness enthusiast, Rich, has always prioritized his health. He prides himself on being health conscious, taking steps to maintain his health and keeping up with his annual exams.

After learning about the Galleri^® test, a multi-cancer early detection blood test that screens for a “fingerprint” of some of the deadliest cancers before people have symptoms, Rich was interested.

“When I heard the Galleri test screened for cancer, I was very much about that. My wife — a registered nurse — also thought it was a great idea,” said Rich, whose mother passed away of colon cancer.

Rich was able to receive the Galleri test as a benefit from his Nationwide life insurance policy. After speaking with his doctor and obtaining a prescription, Rich moved forward with the test. “I made the appointment, and they did the blood draw. It was as simple as that,” he said.

While doctors can test individually for five specific cancers today, nearly 70% of deaths are caused by cancers without recommended screenings.^1,2

The Galleri test is a new proactive tool to screen for cancer. The test looks for DNA shed into the bloodstream by cancers growing in the body. Though there are many types of cancer, these DNA fragments act like a unique “fingerprint” of cancer, which allows the Galleri test to provide direction to a doctor on the cancer’s origin and help guide next steps for diagnosis.³

When Rich received his Galleri test result, he and his wife, Barbara, were surprised to hear it was a Cancer Signal Detected. After a diagnostic evaluation and conversations with his oncologist, Rich was told he had stage three cancer in his head and neck.

“When we found out Rich had cancer, our whole life just turned on a dime. My daughter and I just started crying,” said Barbara.

“But once we learned it was localized and caught early, I felt relief,” Rich recalled. “Because I didn’t have any symptoms, without the Galleri test, we might not have caught my cancer for another six months or a year or longer. If my cancer wasn’t caught when it was, it could have spread and my treatment options could have been more limited.”

Road to Recovery

Rich worked with his oncologist to start treatment and now considers himself on the road to recovery.

“The treatment for cancer can knock you out, and that definitely happened in my case,” said Rich, a self-proclaimed “gym nut.” “It’s going to be a long process to get back to where I was, but I am confident that I’ll conquer it.”

Rich credited Galleri with giving him more control when it came to cancer. Today, he is continuing to focus on his health, including taking other proactive measures to stay healthy, and is thankful for those that brought the Galleri test to him.

Learn More

The Galleri test must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and should be used in addition to recommended cancer screenings such as mammography, colonoscopy, prostate specific antigen (PSA) test and/or cervical cancer screening. It is intended for use in adults with an elevated risk for cancer, such as those aged 50 or older.

The Galleri test does not detect a signal for all cancers, and not all cancers can be detected in the blood. False-positive and false-negative results do occur.

Based on a clinical study of people ages 50 to 79, around 1% are expected to receive a Cancer Signal Detected result, which includes predicted Cancer Signal Origin(s). After diagnostic evaluation, around 40% of people are expected to have a confirmed cancer diagnosis. The overall sensitivity in study participants in head and neck cancer was 85.7% (63.2% for stage I, 82.4% for stage II, 84.2% stage III, 96.0% stage IV).

Learn more at Galleri.com.

Important Safety Information

The Galleri test is recommended for use in adults with an elevated risk for cancer, such as those aged 50 or older. The Galleri test does not detect all cancers and should be used in addition to routine cancer screening tests recommended by a healthcare provider. Galleri is intended to detect cancer signals and predict where in the body the cancer signal is located. Use of Galleri is not recommended in individuals who are pregnant, 21 years old or younger, or undergoing active cancer treatment.

Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of medical history, clinical signs and symptoms. A test result of “Cancer Signal Not Detected” does not rule out cancer. A test result of “Cancer Signal Detected” requires confirmatory diagnostic evaluation by medically established procedures (e.g., imaging) to confirm cancer.

If cancer is not confirmed with further testing, it could mean that cancer is not present or testing was insufficient to detect cancer, including due to the cancer being located in a different part of the body. False-­positive (a cancer signal detected when cancer is not present) and false-­negative (a cancer signal not detected when cancer is present) test results do occur. Rx only.

Laboratory/Test Information

GRAIL’s clinical laboratory is certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) and accredited by the College of American Pathologists. The Galleri test was developed, and its performance characteristics were determined by GRAIL. The Galleri test has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. GRAIL’s clinical laboratory is regulated under CLIA to perform high ­complexity testing. The Galleri test is intended for clinical purposes.

_________________________

[1] US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended cancer screening tests, Grade A,B,C. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/topic_search_results.

[2] American Cancer Society Cancer Facts and Figures 2022. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/annual-cancer-facts-and-figures/2022/2022-cancer-facts-and-figures.pdf. Data on file GA-2021-0065.

[3] Klein EA, Richards D, Cohn A, et al. Clinical Validation of a Targeted Methylation N-Based Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test Using an Independent Validation Set. Ann Oncol. 2021;32(9):1167-1177. Doi: 10.1016/j.annonc.2021.05.806.

2024-05-14T09:01:00

(BPT) – Have you ever looked at your dog’s big sweet eyes and wondered, “What is going on inside your head?” If your answer is yes, you’re not alone. While your dog can’t communicate with you verbally, you can still pick up on the signs of separation anxiety. The sooner you do, the sooner you can talk to your veterinarian about potential treatments, such as Reconcile^® (fluoxetine hydrochloride). Knowing what your furry friend is thinking could help save you both a lot of stress. Here’s what your pup might say about the struggles of separation anxiety.

1. “I hate it when you leave.”

Separation anxiety causes up to 17% of dogs to engage in problematic behavior when left alone, such as when you leave for work or to run an errand.^1,2 While some dogs are predisposed to separation anxiety, others seem to develop it out of nowhere. Several things can trigger your dog’s nervous tendencies, such as a change in routine, loss of a family member, or a new living situation. If your dog’s separation anxiety developed suddenly, try pinpointing what may have changed in your life.

2. “When you get overly affectionate, I worry you’re not coming back.”

Dogs are empathetic creatures that can sense when something’s up. When you show an exaggerated amount of emotion before you leave, they can start to freak out.³ You may believe you’re showing love, but your dog sees it as a sign of impending doom — in other words, you walking out the door. To avoid this, remain calm and ignore your dog for 20 to 30 minutes before leaving so you don’t create a heightened state of arousal just prior to your departure.

3. “I destroy things because I feel the need to escape or distract myself.”

The signs that your dog has separation anxiety are often easy to spot. Think of the things that shock you when you get home: chewed-up doorways, torn-up cushions, trash strewn everywhere, or maybe a note from your neighbor saying your pup barked constantly all day.⁴ If it’s something that rarely happens when you’re home, it could be a sign of separation anxiety.

4. “I’m not misbehaving. I’m scared.”

Your dog isn’t being naughty. Your dog isn’t being spiteful. Your dog is anxious. When left alone, dogs with separation anxiety often feel compelled to escape or do something else to release their nervous energy, which manifests to you as “acting out.” If you arrive home and find a mess, stay calm. Your dog doesn’t realize they did something “wrong.” Never punish your dog for house soiling or destruction — this will only increase the anxiety associated with anticipating your return.

5. “I wish I had something fun to do while you’re gone.”

Keeping your dog occupied when you leave can help alleviate anxiety and keep them focused on something besides your absence. Giving them their favorite toy or treat can help them focus on something other than the stress of you leaving, as well as associate your departure with something wonderful and delicious!

6. “I don’t want to be anxious anymore. Can we work on it together?”

Behavior modification training is an important part of managing separation anxiety in dogs. Following the BOND^® training program is a great place to start. BOND stands for: Be Positive, Only Reward Calm Behavior, No More Drama When You Come and Go, and Develop Your Dog’s Independence. These easy-to-follow steps can help build your dog’s confidence and gain a sense of security when alone. To learn more, visit reconcile.com/bond-training-information.

7. “Will you ask my veterinarian about Reconcile?”

Reconcile is a once-a-day chewable tablet and FDA-approved medication commonly used to treat separation anxiety in dogs in conjunction with behavior modification training, like the BOND program. If you think your dog has separation anxiety, talk to your veterinarian about a training plan that includes Reconcile and learn more at reconcile.com.

There is no overnight solution or quick fix for your dog’s separation anxiety. It takes hard work and dedication, but when you approach it with empathy, a challenging situation becomes an opportunity for growth and bonding. Remember, your dog looks to you for guidance and reassurance, so approaching separation anxiety with patience, love, and a proactive mindset will lead to a happier, healthier relationship for both of you. If you think your dog has separation anxiety, speak with your veterinarian today.

¹Bamberger M, Houpt KA. Signalment factors, comorbidity, and trends in behavior diagnoses in dogs: 1,644 cases (1991-2001). JAVMA. 2006;229(10):1593.

²Tiira K, Sulkama S, Lohi H. Prevalence, comorbidity, and behavioral variation in canine anxiety. J Vet Behav. 2016;16:38.

³Horwitz DF. In Horwitz D, Mills D (eds). Separation-related problems in dogs. BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Behavioural Medicine, 2nd ed. Gloucester, UK: British Small Animal Veterinary Association, 2010.

⁴Schwartz S. Separation anxiety syndrome in dogs and cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2003;22(11):1526-1532.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: The most common adverse events reported in decreasing order of reported frequency are: decreased appetite, depression/lethargy, shaking/shivering/tremor, vomiting, restlessness and anxiety, seizures, aggression, diarrhea, dilated pupils, vocalization, weight loss, panting, confusion, incoordination, and excessive salivation. Reconcile chewable tablets are contraindicated for dogs with a history of seizures or when used with drugs that may cause seizures. Consult your veterinarian for complete safety information or click here to read the package insert.

The information, tools and material presented on this site are provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please consult your veterinarian for an official diagnosis of canine separation anxiety and to learn more about Reconcile. Click here to read the complete terms and conditions regarding use of this website.

2024-05-14T05:01:00

(BPT) – While you can’t predict everything life may throw at you, you can still set yourself up for some of life’s uncertainties. One way you can prepare for any situation and provide for your loved ones in the future is through life insurance.

The ins and outs of life insurance can seem complicated and overwhelming, but don’t get discouraged. Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company offers tips and insights to help you identify the best life insurance options that make sense for you and your family. Check out the company’s answers to some of the most common life insurance questions.

What is life insurance?

The basic concept of life insurance is pretty simple. You pay premiums to an insurance company for the length of your policy. When you pass away, the company pays a death benefit to your beneficiaries that can be used for funeral and final expenses, medical bills, credit card bills, mortgage payments, living expenses, and more.

Why do I need life insurance?

A life insurance policy can help you secure your and your family’s future. At its core, life insurance is a key component of a good financial plan and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Many people assume life insurance only covers funeral costs but claims payments can be used for an array of other expenses to relieve family members of having to cover certain outstanding bills after the policyholder is gone.

When should I get life insurance?

A common myth about life insurance is that it’s only for older adults, not for healthy young adults. However, purchasing life insurance while you’re young establishes protection right away before you may even need it. It can also be a smart financial decision because you typically can secure lower premiums when you’re at a younger age.

If you’re a parent or grandparent, consider setting your children or grandchildren up for success by purchasing a whole life insurance policy for them. One idea could be to gift a whole life insurance policy to your child or children (or grandchild or grandchildren) for high school or college graduation. This is a sensible present that builds cash value that can help them plan for their own future.

What are the different types of life insurance?

There are two main types of life insurance policies. Which one you choose will most likely depend on your present and future needs.

• Whole life insurance is permanent life insurance that provides protection for your entire life and offers financial support through a claims payout to your beneficiary or beneficiaries at the time of your passing. Whole life accumulates a cash value that you can access during your life if needed for certain expenses, such as to buy a home, settle debts, or pay for college.
• Term life insurance offers financial support for a loss only during a specified period. The premiums may be lower than whole life insurance premiums, but it won’t offer coverage for your entire life. Term also doesn’t accumulate value.

How much life insurance do I need?

Life insurance is not a one-size-fits-all product. How much life insurance you would consider purchasing depends on your age, family situation, and future plans. Luckily, there are a number of options, including riders (or add-on benefits to a policy) that offer you flexibility. The best way to figure out what type and how much life insurance you may need is to talk with a local insurance professional.

Curious about learning more about life insurance options that would fit your needs? Visit Boston Mutual.com for more details.

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GRTP 04/99

335-5124 3/24

2024-05-13T10:01:00

(BPT) – By Kenji Inaba, MD, FACS, FRCSC

You’re on your way to work when a car crash happens. A backyard bonfire takes a turn while chopping firewood. While in your backyard, a neighbor has an accident with a lawnmower. These scenarios share a common thread — a person in need of help due to severe bleeding. This is where the American College of Surgeons Stop the Bleed^® program comes in. Stop the Bleed is a simple set of skills that empowers everyday people to save lives in critical moments by learning a few basic techniques.

Training That Empowers All

May is National Stop the Bleed month and training is for everyone — parents, students, office workers, teachers — literally everyone. No background in health care is needed to get trained. Before helping, ensure your own safety and that 911 has been called. The techniques can be distilled into three lifesaving steps:

1. Apply Direct Pressure: The first and most immediate step involves applying firm pressure directly to the wound, which helps to control bleeding.
2. Pack the Wound: If direct pressure alone is not enough, packing the wound with gauze or a cloth can help control more severe bleeding.
3. Apply a Tourniquet: For severe limb bleeding that does not stop with direct pressure or packing, a tourniquet may be necessary. This method is highly effective in stopping blood flow to a limb, thereby preventing further blood loss.

These steps form the core of Stop the Bleed training, which takes about an hour to complete — less time than it takes to watch a movie. The training is available in a variety of formats, including in-person and online options.

Originally launched in 2015, the Stop the Bleed initiative is driven by a clear vision: to equip ordinary people with the skills to prevent death from bleeding. Since then, nearly 4 million individuals globally have learned these essential skills through the program.

The Urgency of Early Action

With any injury that causes severe bleeding, the first few minutes are critical and can mean the difference between life and death. As a trauma surgeon, I have witnessed the profound impact of immediate bleeding control, observing firsthand how quick actions by bystanders can save lives. Conversely, I’ve also seen the tragic outcomes when help arrives too late.

A Call to Action

As we observe National Stop the Bleed Month in May, it’s a timely reminder of the critical importance of being prepared. Whether you’re attending a neighborhood barbecue, enjoying a day at the park, or simply going about your daily routine, the skills you learn from Stop the Bleed can prepare you to act quickly and confidently in an emergency. Lives are saved not just by the actions of medical professionals, but also by ordinary people who make extraordinary decisions to help others in need.

To join a course and buy a Stop the Bleed kit, visit stopthebleed.org.

Kenji Inaba, MD, FACS, is the Chair of the Stop the Bleed^® Committee of the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma, Chief of Trauma at the Los Angeles General Medical Center, and a Professor of Surgery at the University of Southern California.

2024-05-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – Do you find it difficult to swallow food? Does food feel like it gets stuck in your throat when you eat? These are common symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a disease that affects an estimated one in 2,000 people in the U.S. EoE is reportedly increasing around the world.

What is EoE?

EoE is a chronic allergic condition. It involves inflammation and swelling in the esophagus. This can make it difficult to swallow food. The esophagus is the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. Chronic inflammation from EoE causes damage to the esophagus that makes eating difficult or uncomfortable.

The main symptom of EoE is difficulty swallowing, but it’s not the only sign. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), other symptoms may include:

• Irritability
• Problems with feeding
• Poor weight gain and growth among infants and toddlers
• Acid reflux
• Regurgitation
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Chest pain in teens and adults

Infants and toddlers may refuse food or show poor growth, malnutrition or weight loss. School-age children may have chronic stomach pain, trouble swallowing and/or vomiting.

People with EoE tend to drink a lot of liquids to swallow food. They often feel full halfway through a meal. If solid food gets stuck in the throat, it is a medical emergency. Left untreated, long-term inflammation from EoE can narrow the esophagus and cause permanent damage.

Anyone can develop EoE — and although it’s a rare disease, it’s becoming increasingly more common. Children, adults, men and women of all ethnicities can develop the condition. For some families, EoE is hereditary.

Is EoE related to food allergies?

While doctors and researchers aren’t sure what causes EoE, it can be triggered by food or environmental allergies. People with other allergic conditions like asthma and eczema also often develop EoE. Some with EoE mistakenly believe they have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). They do not realize that reflux could be related to EoE, and that treatments between the two conditions are different.

To manage your symptoms, your doctor may recommend different treatments to reduce the symptoms and inflammation.

Your doctor may recommend removing certain foods from your diet to treat EoE. This is known as a dietary restriction or diet therapy. Diet therapy removes potential food triggers from your diet. The triggers may include common food allergens, such as cow’s milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts, fin fish, shellfish, wheat, soy and sesame. A special amino acid-based liquid formula may be recommended by your doctor. These formulas are referred to as elemental formulas. They do not trigger allergies.

When do I need medication to treat EoE?

Your doctor may recommend medicines to help manage your symptoms. Since EoE is an inflammatory disease, treatments will focus on decreasing inflammation. A common treatment is taking pills called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). While PPIs reduce stomach acid production, they can also reduce inflammation in some EoE patients.

Another treatment a doctor may prescribe is a corticosteroid to help control inflammation. These types of medications can come in an inhaler or liquid form.

How do biologics work to treat EoE?

Your doctor may recommend a biologic medication. Currently in the U.S., there is one biologic approved to treat EoE — dupilumab. It is administered via an injection. Dupilumab can reduce the number of eosinophils in the esophagus and relieve symptoms caused by EoE inflammation. It can also improve patients’ ability to swallow food.

Learn more about biologic medications at BiologicMeds.org.

If you recognize the symptoms of EoE in yourself or a loved one, speak to your doctor. You may want to see a specialist such as an allergist or gastroenterologist. If you’ve already been diagnosed with EoE, continue to work with your doctor for ongoing disease management and to discuss new treatment options.

Don’t wait. Take an active role in your health by talking to your doctor if you’re experiencing EoE symptoms. To learn more about the condition and how to manage it, visit AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org or APFED.org.

2024-05-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’ve heard about cognitive health recently in the news or have a loved one who may be showing signs of cognitive decline, it’s natural to worry about how your brain health may change with age. In fact, recent findings from a McKnight Brain Research Foundation (MBRF) survey found that 87% of Americans are concerned about age-related memory loss and a decline in brain function with age.

While the concerns are natural, it’s important to understand what cognitive aging is and the changes to expect with age. Many people may not realize that forgetting a colleague or neighbor’s name at the grocery store and not remembering it until you get home isn’t a cause for alarm.

The MBRF recently launched the “Brain Works – Optimize Your Brain Span” campaign to educate the public on what cognitive aging is, as a first step to reducing fear and encouraging everyone to take action to promote healthy brain aging.

From diet to exercise to getting enough sleep, research suggests there are steps people can take to help keep their brains healthy across their lifespan. Yet, only 32% of the MBRF survey respondents said they believe they can take action to help control their brain health as they age compared to 68% who believe they can control their physical health with age.

To reverse that thinking, the Brain Works campaign aims to help people better understand the brain-body connection and encourages everyone to put the same amount of effort into caring for their brains as they do the rest of their bodies.

Tips to Optimize Your Brain Span:

Healthy Body, Healthy Mind

Taking care of your physical health by getting health screenings as recommended for your age is also important for your cognition. Be sure to manage any chronic health conditions you may have, like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Avoiding or quitting smoking will also help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Feed Your Brain

Eating a healthy and balanced diet that’s rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy products can reduce inflammation, the risk of chronic diseases, and help support brain health. For optimal brain health, also stay hydrated, limit alcohol consumption, and reduce your intake of solid fats, sugar, sodium and highly processed foods.

Break a Sweat

Did you know that strengthening your body also helps sharpen your brain? Physical activity has been consistently linked to numerous benefits for brain health and cognition. While any form of exercise is great, and even a walking program is good, aerobic exercise like biking or jogging is particularly beneficial for cognitive health. Aim to get your heart pumping and blood flowing for at least 30 minutes every day — even if you break it up into small bursts.

Ignite Your Intellect

Challenging and activating the mind with activities, like learning a new language, skill or hobby, helps keep your mind sharp. Feeling social? Invite friends over for a game night. Rather spend some time alone? Settle down with a good book or tackle a puzzle.

Find Your Zen

Stress is a natural part of life, but over time, chronic stress can negatively impact the brain. Whether you journal, practice yoga or indulge in a soothing massage, finding effective ways to relieve stress is essential for your brain health and overall well-being.

Keep your Friends Close

Great news for social butterflies! Staying connected with friends, family and your community is also good for your brain. Despite the benefits, only about half of the MBRF survey respondents identified social interaction as a way to promote brain health. Take this as a sign to call an old friend or invite a neighbor to go on a walk. Your brain and body will thank you!

Get Your Z’s

Not getting enough sleep may result in problems with memory and thinking, yet a third of American adults report regularly getting less than the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep. Help protect your brain by getting better sleep.

Learn more about the Brain Works campaign and how to optimize your brain span at: https://mcknightbrain.org/brainworks/.

About the Brain Works Campaign

The McKnight Brain Research Foundation launched the “Brain Works- Optimize Your Brain Span” campaign in March 2024 to educate the public on cognitive aging and to offer tips to help maintain optimum brain health with age. The campaign features information on cognitive aging, including an online hub of tools and resources from the McKnight Brain Research Foundation and other reputable organizations with cognitive health expertise. Visit the resource hub and learn more at: McKnightBrain.org/BrainWorks.

About the McKnight Brain Research Foundation Consumer Survey

The MBRF survey was conducted by Wakefield Research. Responses were solicited from 1,000 nationally representative US adults ages 18+, between December 11th and December 15th, 2023, using an email invitation and an online survey. Data has been weighted.

2024-05-08T15:19:00

(BPT) – When’s the last time you changed your HVAC’s air filter? If you can’t remember, you’re not alone. Dirty air filters are one of the top reasons for HVAC service calls. This common — yet easy to fix — problem could be sabotaging your indoor air quality and the life of your HVAC.

Replacing the air filter is a necessary step in maintaining your home’s air quality and keeping your HVAC system running smoothly, but it’s often forgotten. When filters aren’t replaced often enough, you’ll get dirt and debris buildup, resulting in a series of issues — all unpleasant, some serious.

Here are four reasons why you should change your HVAC’s air filter on a regular schedule, from the pros at Trane Residential.

Improve indoor air quality. It makes perfect sense that air getting forced through a dirty filter is going to pick up those dirty particles and swirl them through your home. Poor indoor air quality is a silent, invisible irritant that can cause big problems like respiratory issues, asthma attacks, poor sleep quality, eye irritation, fatigue, and even difficulty doing strenuous things around the house. Getting winded going up and down the stairs to do laundry? It might be the result of poor indoor air quality.

Lower energy bills. Notice your bill creeping up for no apparent reason? A dirty air filter could be the cause! Replacing that filter can lower your energy consumption by up to 15%, according to the Department of Energy.

Elevate indoor comfort. If your air filter is clogged, it restricts the air from properly flowing throughout your home. That means you’re not getting the cool air you need, where you need it, especially on hot summer days.

Decreased risk of serious HVAC problems. Dirty, clogged air filters can lead to blower motors overheating, evaporator coils icing up, dust building up in the ductwork, short cycling of the unit and more. These costly fixes can result in system downtime.

Changing your air filters more often seems like a no-brainer, but how often should you do it? The pros at Trane Residential recommend that a good rule of thumb is to change your filter every 30 to 90 days, but double check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations. Regularly cleaning and changing your filter will ensure the best filtration, increase the life of your system, and give you peace of mind that you’re breathing clean air!

All of that said, there’s a reason dirty air filters are a top service call for HVAC pros — homeowners forget to do it. A foolproof solution is to let Trane remind you, with Trane® Filters powered by FilterTime. Here’s how it works: First, you choose your filter sizes and delivery schedule, then you get your new filters delivered to your doorstep automatically, reminding you it’s time to pop them into your system. And just like that, you’re ensured clean air for your family and your home.

If you’re ready to make a larger investment into your home’s air quality, check out Trane’s CleanEffects Whole Home Air Cleaner. It sets the standard in indoor air quality, using patented, breakthrough air cleaning technology to remove up to 99.98% of airborne particles and allergens from the air that passes through the filter. It catches particles as small as .3 microns, with minimal restriction on the airflow of your HVAC system, making it 8 times more effective than even the best HEPA room filters and up to 100 times more effective than a standard 1-inch filter at delivering clean air to your home.

This summer, do yourself a favor and prioritize your air quality. Time to clear the air and stay cool.

2024-05-08T05:01:00

(BPT) – Did you know that Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), also known as nurse anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists, safely administer more than 50 million anesthetics to patients each year in the U.S.? These anesthesia professionals practice in every setting where anesthesia is delivered, including hospital surgical suites, offices of dentists, podiatrists, ophthalmologists, plastic surgeons and pain management specialists — plus U.S. military, Public Health Services and Department of Veterans Affairs healthcare facilities.

CRNAs safely provide anesthesia every day in collaboration with surgeons, dentists, podiatrists and other qualified anesthesia professionals, using their training and experience to independently manage the anesthesia needs of the patient.

“When anesthesia is administered by a nurse anesthetist, the care is recognized as the practice of nursing; when it is administered by a physician anesthesiologist, it is recognized as the practice of medicine,” said American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) President Dru Riddle, PhD, DNAP, CRNA, FAAN, associate professor of Professional Practice and director of Clinical Education at Texas Christian University School of Nurse Anesthesia in Fort Worth. “Whether your anesthesia provider’s educational background is in nursing or in medicine, patients can rest assured knowing that all anesthesia professionals give anesthesia in the same exact way.”

How are CRNAs trained?

The education and experience required to become a CRNA is extensive, totaling a commitment of eight years or more in both clinical and educational experience. The minimum education required to become a CRNA includes a baccalaureate or graduate degree in nursing or other appropriate major, a license as a registered nurse (RN) and/or Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in the U.S. (or its territories), plus a one-year minimum of full-time work or part-time equivalent as a registered nurse in a critical care setting in the U.S., its territories or a U.S. military hospital outside the United States.

The average experience of RNs before they enter a nurse anesthesia educational program is 4.5 years, according to the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists.

In addition to that foundation, a CRNA must then enter and graduate from a program that’s accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs. These programs also have admission requirements in addition to the already listed minimums.

Nurse anesthesiology educational programs range from 36-51 months, depending on each university’s requirements, and current residents will graduate with a doctorate in nursing degree. These programs include clinical settings and experiences as part of their training. Graduates have an average of 9,369 hours of clinical experience overall, including 733 hours during their baccalaureate nursing program, 6,032 hours as a critical care registered nurse and 2,604 hours during their program.

Finally, before they can become practicing CRNAs, graduates must pass a National Certification Examination.

Because of this extensive training, CRNAs have a unique advantage as nurse anesthesiology residents because they are the only anesthesia providers required to have real-world patient care experience before they can enter an educational program.

“Nurses who pursue this rigorous career path first have a solid foundation in providing hands-on care for patients,” said Riddle. “They can then use their extensive expertise and compassion for patients, along with their training in administering anesthesia, to provide more holistic care for each patient. They really get to know their patients and help them throughout the entire process — before, during and after surgical procedures.”

For nurses interested in a rewarding career as a CRNA, you can find a complete list of programs at COACRNA.org.

Access to care patients can rely on

For rural America, CRNAs are even more vital. CRNAs represent more than 80% of anesthesia providers in rural counties, and many rural hospitals are critical access hospitals, which often rely on independently practicing CRNAs for anesthesia care. Half of rural hospitals in the United States use a CRNA-only model for obstetric care, and CRNAs are able to safely deliver pain management care to patients when they need it most.

“It’s crucial for many areas of the country where hospitals are few and far between for nurse anesthetists to be available to provide patients with this much-needed healthcare,” said Riddle. “CRNAs can ensure quality patient anesthesia care at facilities throughout the country, often saving patients long drives of 75 miles or more.”

To learn more about CRNAs, their training and what they do, visit AANA.com.

2024-05-06T09:01:00

(BPT) – Glucose is fuel for all the cells in your body — when it’s at normal levels; however, when levels are off it can lead to a host of irrevocable health problems. That’s why maintaining a balanced blood glucose level is an important pillar of overall wellness and paves the way for a longer life.

“From endurance athletes to grandparents, blood sugar balance is considered an important wellness marker,” said Karma James-Dulin, Ph.D., Product Development Manager at Standard Process. “And while the path to achieving this balance is different for everyone, it doesn’t have to be complicated.”

James-Dulin recommends incorporating these simple yet impactful steps that can set you on the path to balancing your blood sugar, as well as balancing your health goals.

1. Pay attention to your plate. The biggest health decision you make every day is what you put in your mouth, so don’t make it lightly. Food is your body’s primary source of energy, but not all foods are created equal. For example, carbs make your blood sugar levels go higher than proteins or fats. The amount of carbs you can eat to stay in your target blood sugar range depends on a number of factors, so make sure to consult with your health care provider about dietary goals.
2. Prevention is the best medicine. High blood sugar levels usually don’t have early signs or symptoms, so it’s important to work with your health care provider to find out if it’s something you need to be monitoring or if there are specific steps to keep an unbalance at bay. Dietary supplementation can also be part of a well-rounded glucose management strategy. For example, Glucose Assist™ from Standard Process^®, a leading whole food-based nutritional supplement company, is formulated to help support normal blood sugar and energy levels already in a healthy range* by providing a slower and more sustained release of glucose^*. In powder form, it’s a convenient, high-quality source of fuel for the body.
3. Stick with an exercise regimen. Regular exercise can help your cells better use the sugar in your blood, improving blood sugar levels. In fact, a brisk post-meal walk can have an immediate effect on lowering your blood sugar. And what’s more, exercise can help manage your weight which is a big contributor to balancing a healthy glucose level over your lifetime.
4. Regulate your sleep schedule. While you may have convinced yourself that you don’t need much sleep, your body feels differently. A regular sleep pattern affects your health in many ways, including supporting normal blood sugar levels. When we are low on sleep, we often reach for refined carbohydrates — or sugar, but sleeping enough at night can curb these cravings. Tips for achieving restful sleep include keeping a consistent sleep schedule with the same sleep and wake times and going technology-free for at least an hour before bedtime.

“Healthy blood sugar levels are essential for good health and can support heart, vision, and kidney health as well as improved mood and energy,” continued James-Dulin. “The above tips are just some of the ways you can keep your blood sugar and health goals in balance, but they are a good place to start.”

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.

^ In healthy individuals with normal blood glucose levels already in a healthy range