Category: Brandpoint Health

2024-01-09T16:35:00

(BPT) – No matter your age or fitness level, experts agree that physical activity brings multiple benefits to your mind and body. If you wonder how being more active as you get older can help you live a happier, healthier life — and how to get started — taking small, simple steps to boost your activity level can make a big impact.

“Age is just a number, and we’ll make sure it never slows you down, so why not begin the new year on the right foot by finding activities you love to do,” said Julie Logue, M.P.H., training manager at SilverSneakers. “You can ‘act your age’ by having the time of your life, whether you’re dancing, walking or playing pickleball with friends.”

Remember, before starting any new exercise, it’s recommended to consult your health care provider.

Here are a few benefits of exercise that may inspire you to move a little more.

1. Protect your bones and joints

Stronger muscles help protect your bones and joints as you age. But if you think lifting heavy weights is the only way to strengthen your muscles, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. If you haven’t been active, you can begin strength exercises by starting slowly, using little to no special equipment, and gradually improving your strength over time.

It’s best to seek classes or programs specifically designed for seniors, such as SilverSneakers by Tivity Health — the nation’s leading fitness program for older adults that offers in-person and virtual classes with the needs of seniors in mind. Seniors can find classes for all levels focused on building strength and flexibility as they age, along with cardio exercises to get their blood pumping.

2. Help prevent falls

About one in four Americans aged 65 and older will fall each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Regular exercise that builds strength and improves balance is one of the best ways to help prevent falls or recover from a fall.

Classes like those offered by SilverSneakers can help strengthen your ankles, knees and hips for a sturdy foundation. Plus, they can help improve your core strength and upper-body posture — to help you stay upright and steady.

3. Learn about injury prevention

Injuries can happen at any age, but a few simple precautions can help to keep you moving injury-free. If you’re a beginner, choose instructors and exercise programs that start slow — even seated — and build your strength and flexibility gradually, so you can continue improving your fitness without risking injury. SilverSneakers even offers virtual classes designed for beginners to help get you started.

4. Enjoy socializing

One valuable benefit of being active is finding a class or community of people you enjoy spending time with. Whether you’re taking classes in person or online, you’ll know everyone else in the class is also aiming to stay more fit and healthy. Taking classes together is a fun bonding activity that will help you stay motivated and may inspire you to create your own group of friends for walking or doing activities together.

5. Improve mindfulness and reduce stress

Physical activity can reduce stress, help you stay more present throughout your day and enjoy your life to the fullest. Classes offered by SilverSneakers include Tai Chi and Yoga, which are easy ways to help you stay more mindful and boost your overall well-being.

Getting started

SilverSneakers offers members a network of up to 22,000 fitness locations, along with community-based options like community centers and parks. Workouts are offered at thousands of gyms, community centers and other participating fitness locations nationwide.

Members can participate in live, instructor-led and on-demand virtual classes in a variety of lengths and formats. Options include programming for those with chronic conditions, plus healthy aging workshops on topics including fall prevention and virtual learning opportunities.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, it may already include SilverSneakers. Learn more at SilverSneakers.com.

2024-01-08T05:01:00

(BPT) – Have you heard about the blue zones? These are the six places around the world — Singapore; Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Loma Linda, California; and the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica — where people live the longest. National Geographic Explorer and New York Times best-selling author Dan Buettner has spent more than 20 years studying these regions of the world to figure out just how the people there are living healthily well into their 90s and even 100s.

In his books, Buettner reveals the secrets of these centenarians, among them, the Power 9 — guiding lifestyle principles that turn out to be the keys to longevity. Here are some of the life lessons Buettner has unveiled about the blue zones:

Lesson 1: Move Naturally

While each New Year sees a spike in gym membership enrollment, pumping iron or racing on a treadmill aren’t the only ways to live healthier. In all five blue zones, people move all day long, not just for 30 minutes at the gym. That can be done by walking through the neighborhood, working in your garden, or even getting up and down from sitting on the floor, as centenarians in Okinawa do regularly.

Lesson 2: Eat Your Beans

All five blue zones follow a plant-slant diet, and beans — black, fava, soy and garbanzo — make up a good portion of that diet. Buettner’s best-selling cookbooks, The Blue Zones Kitchen and The Blue Zones American Kitchen, offer more than 40 recipes that incorporate beans into your meal rotation.

Lesson 3: Stay Connected

One of the most foundational elements of the blue zones is putting loved ones first. In Okinawa, centenarians call their social circles moais. These are groups of friends committed to each other for life. In Nicoya, family comes first, and generations are found together at the dinner table regularly.

Lesson 4: Reduce Your Stress

No place in the world — even the blue zones — is immune to stress, which can lead to chronic inflammation and age-related disease. But the longest-lived people in the blue zones find regular ways to reduce that stress: In Loma Linda, the Adventist community turns to prayer and observes the Saturday Sabbath. In Ikaria, they take daily naps. And in Sardinia, they practice another Power 9 principle, Wine@5, with regular happy hours.

Lesson 5: Find Your Purpose

Buettner says the most common factor across each of the blue zones is having purpose. Each centenarian he interviewed over the course of two decades had a reason to wake up in the morning: Nicoyans call it plan de vida. That sense of meaning can add up to seven years of extra life expectancy.

Find more tips, tricks and recipes from the blue zones in Dan Buettner’s The Blue Zones Secrets for Living Longer, The Blue Zones Kitchen and The Blue Zones American Kitchen. Or make a New Year’s resolution to blue zone your life with the help of The Blue Zones Challenge.

2024-01-04T13:01:00

(BPT) – This content is provided by MorphoSys and Incyte.

In the fall of 2021, Joe was losing weight and feeling unusually weak. He visited his primary care doctor who could tell something was wrong and recommended Joe immediately go to the emergency room. It was there, during a prolonged stay, the doctors gave Joe news he never wanted to hear: he had cancer. Specifically, the doctors informed him that he was experiencing “major problems” from a form of blood cancer called diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (or DLBCL).

“When my primary care doctor urgently suggested I go to the emergency room, I knew this was something serious,” said Joe. “It was a jarring experience to hear I had what the doctors called a ‘very aggressive cancer’ because prior to the visit, I was just noticing some weight loss and fatigue. I thank my wife, who knows me better than anyone and noticed a difference in my energy levels and pushed me to see a professional.”

DLBCL affects approximately 28,000 people per year in the United States and is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), a family of blood cancers. It is a fast-growing but treatable cancer affecting B-lymphocytes, also known as B cells, a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections. As they develop, cancerous B cells become larger than normal and multiply uncontrollably.

With Joe’s advanced stage diagnosis and his physical condition, his doctors recommended that he pursue hospice for palliative care to help ease the symptoms of his cancer. However, Joe wasn’t ready to give up.

“I was not ready for palliative care and knew I wanted to explore treatment options,” explained Joe. “With the support of my wife, seven younger siblings and congregation, I looked elsewhere, and my research landed me in San Antonio, Texas, where I met Dr. Enrique Diaz-Duque, a hematologist-oncologist specializing in lymphoma.”

“When I first met Joe, it was clear to me that he wanted to seek treatment for his DLBCL, and so I’m happy that he came to us and sought a second opinion,” Diaz says. “During our first visit we had a conversation about his personal goals, preferences and condition and my team and I evaluated the available options that we felt might be appropriate for him.”

“In addition to my family and faith helping me stay optimistic, Dr. Diaz and my supportive care team played a huge role in maintaining my attitude and outlook,” Joe says. “My care team was always positive and solutions-oriented which, coming from a hospice recommendation, gave me the hope I needed that I could find a treatment that worked for me.”

Joe’s care team started him on a standard chemoimmunotherapy regimen, but after about six months, a positron emission tomography (PET) scan showed that unfortunately there was still cancer present.

“We must emphasize that we (oncologists) treat patients with DLBCL with curative intent,” Diaz says. “Unfortunately, nearly half of patients see their DLBCL relapse (cancer returns) after initial treatment or not respond (cancer becomes refractory) to initial treatment. In looking at a second treatment for Joe, we needed to keep his age and functional status in mind and pursue an option that was right for him to get to the best results possible.”

For Joe, the next option he and his care team decided on was Monjuvi® (tafasitamab-cxix), a targeted immunotherapy treatment given with another medicine called lenalidomide to treat adults with certain types of DLBCL that has come back or that did not respond to previous treatment and who cannot receive a stem cell transplant. The approval of Monjuvi is based on a type of response rate. There is an ongoing study to confirm the clinical benefit of Monjuvi.

“I believe acknowledging the individual needs and preferences of each patient is imperative when managing cancers like DLBCL,” Diaz says. “Furthermore, listening to your patients and giving them the opportunity to weigh in on their care creates an open and honest environment and gives the feeling of a collaborative process.”

For Joe, it is important to him that treatment with Monjuvi does not require hospitalization — he can have it administered at a nearby healthcare facility by the local care team he has grown to know and trust.

“My family lives close by and I am thankful I do not need to be admitted or travel a long distance for my treatment,” Joe says. “Given my experience with cancer, I appreciate spending time with loved ones more than ever before.”

Joe responded well to Monjuvi and achieved a complete response, meaning all signs of his cancer have disappeared. A complete response does not always mean the cancer has been cured. Joe continues to take Monjuvi and continues to be under the care of his physicians who assess his health and continued response to Monjuvi. This is Joe’s experience with Monjuvi and reflects results as of the date of this article. Every individual is different, and results may vary.

Monjuvi may cause serious side effects, including infusion reactions, low blood cell counts and serious infections. The most common side effects of Monjuvi are feeling tired or weak, diarrhea, cough, fever, swelling of lower legs or hands, respiratory tract infection and decreased appetite. Continue reading to learn more about these and other side effects.

“I truly believe my faith and my care team kept me going through the darkest of times,” Joe says. “They were there for me every step of the way, providing transparency, optimism and hope when I needed it most.”

Please read the Important Safety Information below to learn more about the side effects of Monjuvi.

What is MONJUVI?

MONJUVI (tafasitamab-cxix) is a prescription medicine given with lenalidomide to treat adults with certain types of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) that has come back (relapsed) or that did not respond to previous treatment (refractory) and who cannot receive a stem cell transplant.

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

The approval of MONJUVI is based on a type of response rate. There is an ongoing study to confirm the clinical benefit of MONJUVI.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What are the possible side effects of MONJUVI?

MONJUVI may cause serious side effects, including

• Infusion reactions. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for infusion reactions during your infusion of MONJUVI. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get fever, chills, flushing, headache, or shortness of breath during an infusion of MONJUVI
• Low blood cell counts (platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells). Low blood cell counts are common with MONJUVI, but can also be serious or severe. Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood counts during treatment with MONJUVI. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get a fever of 100.4 °F (38 °C) or above, or any bruising or bleeding
• Infections. Serious infections, including infections that can cause death, have happened in people during treatment with MONJUVI and after the last dose. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get a fever of 100.4 °F (38 °C) or above, or develop any signs or symptoms of an infection

The most common side effects of MONJUVI include

• Feeling tired or weak
• Diarrhea
• Cough
• Fever
• Swelling of lower legs or hands
• Respiratory tract infection
• Decreased appetite

These are not all the possible side effects of MONJUVI. Your healthcare provider will give you medicines before each infusion to decrease your chance of infusion reactions. If you do not have any reactions, your healthcare provider may decide that you do not need these medicines with later infusions. Your healthcare provider may need to delay or completely stop treatment with MONJUVI if you have severe side effects.

Before you receive MONJUVI, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you

• Have an active infection or have had one recently
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. MONJUVI may harm your unborn baby. You should not become pregnant during treatment with MONJUVI. Do not receive treatment with MONJUVI in combination with lenalidomide if you are pregnant because lenalidomide can cause birth defects and death of your unborn baby
• You should use an effective method of birth control (contraception) during treatment and for at least 3 months after your last dose of MONJUVI
• Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with MONJUVI
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if MONJUVI passes into your breastmilk. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for at least 3 months after your last dose of MONJUVI

You should also read the lenalidomide Medication Guide for important information about pregnancy, contraception, and blood and sperm donation.

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

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to MORPHOSYS US INC. at (844) 667-1992.

Please see the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information, for additional Important Safety Information at Monjuvi.com.

If you are living with DLBCL that came back or didn’t respond to the first treatment (relapsed or refractory DLBCL), have a discussion with your healthcare provider about your therapy options. To learn more about Monjuvi, relapsed or refractory DLBCL and for support and resources, visit www.Monjuvi.com

Joe and Dr. Diaz were compensated for their time.

MONJUVI is a registered trademark of MorphoSys AG.

MorphoSys is a registered trademark of MorphoSys AG.

Incyte is a registered trademark of Incyte.

November 2023 RC-US-TAF-01880

2023-12-22T08:01:01

(BPT) – What can a smile do? The simple act of smiling can open the door to friendship, start conversations, express love and joy — and so much more. But for many children with a cleft lip and palate, easily sharing a smile with others may seem far out of reach.

During this season of joy and giving, Smile Train, a nonprofit organization that partners with local health care professionals around the world to provide free surgery and other comprehensive cleft care to those in need, looks back with gratitude on a memorable year — and forward to their upcoming 25th anniversary.

The burden of clefts

Did you know that 540 babies are born each day with a cleft? A cleft is when a baby’s top lip and/or the roof of their mouth does not form properly during pregnancy. Cleft-affected children often have difficulty eating, breathing, hearing and speaking. Clefts can even lead to malnutrition and death. Children with clefts are regularly harassed and bullied for the way they look, often forcing them to drop out of school for their own safety.

But there is hope for these children. The largest cleft-focused organization in the world, Smile Train supports free surgery and comprehensive cleft care, including nutritional support, speech therapy, psychosocial counseling, dental services and more through their many global health care partners. Since 1999, Smile Train has supported more than 1.5 million free cleft surgeries in more than 90 countries.

Smile Train also partners with two of the biggest, most respected names in healthcare, Haleon, a global leader in consumer health, and Dentsply Sirona, the world’s largest manufacturer of dental supplies and technologies, as well as with like-minded non-governmental organizations (NGOs) such as Kids Operating Room and Lifebox, to exponentially increase their impact and capacity for innovation.

A record-setting year

In 2023, Smile Train challenged themselves to raise awareness about the power of a smile in a bold new way: by setting the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the world’s largest online album of smiling mouths. GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ gave them a number to beat — 20,000. Then Dentsply Sirona upped the stakes with a pledge to donate an additional $120,000 to Smile Train if they set the record.

With 21,271 unique smiles collected via their online campaign, Smile Train and Dentsply Sirona officially set the new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title on Oct. 6, 2023 — World Smile Day!

Celebrating a 25th anniversary by looking back

Smile Train is celebrating their 25th anniversary in 2024, by celebrating the many ways they’ve lit up the world with smiles. Over the past quarter century they have done this by:

• Sponsoring more than 1.5 million free cleft surgeries for people of all ages since their founding in 1999
• Partnering with local medical teams in more than 90 countries
• Enabling essential, non-surgical cleft care treatments in more than 35 countries
• Training more than 2,100 trained medical professionals, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, orthodontists and nutritionists around the world
• Partnering with more than 1,100 medical centers worldwide
• Providing 40,000+ training opportunities to health care workers in traditionally marginalized regions
• Acquiring Simulare Medical, a leader in life-like 3D printed surgical simulators, in 2020

Smile Train has also empowered people with clefts in the U.S., the U.K. and around the world to join together, take pride in who they are, and raise voices for facial equality through organizing Cleft Community Advisory Councils, Cleft Con, a college scholarship program and other cleft-community-led initiatives.

In addition, the organization has put cleft care on the global health agenda at the United Nations (UN), the World Health Organization (WHO) and other multilateral institutions and lobbied for the cleft community’s needs at premiere global health and development conferences around the world.

Gratitude for every supporter

Smile Train could not perform their crucial work without the countless people and organizations who have contributed their time, resources and invaluable support over the past 24 years.

“We’re so grateful to our large community of donors, partners and ambassadors for another stellar year of providing children with clefts access to lifesaving health care,” said Susannah Schaefer, president and CEO of Smile Train. “We’re going into 2024 at full steam ahead because of the generosity of so many. We can only continue our transformative work thanks to the continued support of those around the world who care about putting smiles on the faces of children everywhere.”

Take advantage of year-end charitable giving opportunities by showing your support for Smile Train’s life-saving work. Visit SmileTrain.org to learn more and to donate today.

2023-12-21T14:37:00

(BPT) – For hematologist-oncologist Dr. Amitkumar Mehta, his passion is to help develop approaches to treat lymphoma, including immunotherapies and targeted therapies that are effective and tolerable. As a clinical trial investigator and director of the Lymphoma and Immune Effector Cell Therapy Program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in the state, Dr. Mehta has been treating people with lymphoma for more than a decade.

He decided to pursue a career in medicine because it represents a combination of science, compassion, service and human connection. He was attracted to hematology/oncology in particular because of the expanding understanding of cancer biology and immunotherapy and targeted treatment approaches.

“In hematology/oncology, we have seen impressive advances with the development of treatments, including antibody-drug conjugates, immunotherapies, bispecific antibodies and cell therapies,” said Dr. Mehta. “The treatment of lymphoma has seen a paradigm shift, which has benefited patients with this type of blood cancer.”

Among Dr. Mehta’s patients with lymphoma are those with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), an aggressive, or fast-growing, blood cancer.

Typically, the therapy for people with DLBCL who have not previously been treated has involved a regimen that combines traditional chemotherapy with immunotherapy (chemoimmunotherapy). Although this standard treatment is effective for many people with DLBCL, about four in 10 will see their cancer either relapse (return after treatment), usually within two years, or not respond to treatment at all.^1,2 At that point, people with DLBCL may require subsequent treatments, which exposes them to additional side effects.

That is why Dr. Mehta was excited when, in April 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a first treatment for adults who have moderate to high risk DLBCL, not otherwise specified or high-grade B-cell lymphoma.

“Receiving a diagnosis of DLBCL is devastating news for my patients who often feel hopeless. Being able to offer them another treatment option is important to me and encouraging for them to hear,” said Dr. Mehta.

DLBCL Quick Facts About 32,000 people in the U.S. are expected to be diagnosed with DLBCL in 20253 – just under the capacity of Fenway Park in Boston. DLBCL can affect people of any age but is most frequently diagnosed in those age 65 and older.4 DLBCL is slightly more common in men than women.4 This type of cancer is more likely to affect people of Hispanic ethnicity than white, Black, American Indian/Native Alaskan or Asian/Pacific Islander people.4 Symptoms range from swollen, painless lymph nodes in the neck, armpits or groin to coughing, difficulty breathing, soaking night sweats, persistent weakness and tiredness, unexplained weight loss and fever.5

A Major Step Forward in Treating Patients

Polivy^® (polatuzumab vedotin-piiq; learn more about approved use and safety information) in combination with four other medicines called R-CHP for short – a rituximab product, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone – is the first FDA-approved treatment since 2006 to delay the worsening or return of cancer in adults with certain types of newly diagnosed DLBCL.⁶

Polivy is what is known as an antibody-drug conjugate – it is made up of a monoclonal antibody linked to a chemotherapy. When Polivy is administered to patients, the monoclonal antibody attaches to a specific protein on dividing B cells, including those that are cancerous in DLBCL, and delivers the chemotherapy into the B cells to kill them. It also can affect some healthy cells.

“I am encouraged to be able to offer my patients newly diagnosed with this fast-growing and difficult-to-treat lymphoma a treatment option that may result in a positive outcome and that represents an important milestone in the DLBCL treatment landscape,” added Dr. Mehta.

The FDA approval of Polivy plus R-CHP was based on findings from an international late-stage trial in 879 patients with DLBCL who were randomly assigned to Polivy plus R-CHP or traditional chemoimmunotherapy. Neither the study participants or the study investigators knew who was receiving which treatment regimen (double-blind). Study results showed that Polivy plus R-CHP reduced patients’ risk of dying or their cancer progressing or relapsing by 27% compared with the traditional chemoimmunotherapy in the intention-to-treat (ITT) population, which includes all patients who were randomized in the trial.⁷ The most common side effects among patients treated with Polivy were nerve problems in arms and legs, nausea, tiredness or lack of energy, diarrhea, constipation, hair loss and redness and sores of the lining of the mouth, lips, throat and digestive tract.⁶ Please see below for additional safety information.

Patients and Loved Ones Should Talk to Their Doctor

If you or a loved one has been newly diagnosed with DLBCL, talk to your doctor about available treatment options. For more information about Polivy plus R-CHP for the initial treatment of certain types of DLBCL, visit http://www.Polivy.com.

This sponsored article is presented by Genentech.

# # #

Polivy U.S. Indication

Polivy is a prescription medicine used with other medicines (a rituximab product, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone) as a first treatment for adults who have moderate to high risk diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), not otherwise specified (NOS) or high-grade B-cell lymphoma (HGBL).

Important Safety Information

Possible serious side effects

Everyone reacts differently to POLIVY therapy, so it’s important to know what the side effects are. Some people who have been treated with POLIVY have experienced serious to fatal side effects. Your doctor may stop or adjust your treatment if any serious side effects occur. Be sure to contact your healthcare team if there are any signs of these side effects.

• Nerve problems in your arms and legs: This may happen as early as after your first dose and may worsen with every dose. Your doctor will monitor for signs and symptoms, such as changes in your sense of touch, numbness or tingling in your hands or feet, nerve pain, burning sensation, any muscle weakness, or changes to your walking pattern
• Infusion-related reactions: You may experience fever, chills, rash, breathing problems, low blood pressure, or hives within 24 hours of your infusion
• Low Blood Cell Counts: Treatment with POLIVY can cause severe low blood cell counts. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts throughout treatment with POLIVY
• Infections: If you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills, cough, or pain during urination, contact your healthcare team. Your doctor may also give you medication before giving you POLIVY, which may prevent some infections
• Rare and serious brain infections: Your doctor will monitor closely for signs and symptoms of these types of infections. Contact your doctor if you experience confusion, dizziness or loss of balance, trouble talking or walking, or vision changes
• Tumor lysis syndrome: Caused by the fast breakdown of cancer cells. Signs include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of energy
• Potential harm to liver: Some signs include tiredness, weight loss, pain in the abdomen, dark urine, and yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eyes. You may be at higher risk if you already had liver problems or you are taking other medication

Side effects seen most often

The most common side effects during treatment were

• Nerve problems in arms and legs
• Nausea
• Tiredness or lack of energy
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Hair loss
• Redness and sores of the lining of the mouth, lips, throat, and digestive tract

POLIVY may lower your red or white blood cell counts and increase uric acid levels.

POLIVY may not be for everyone. Talk to your doctor if you are

• Pregnant or think you are pregnant: Data have shown that POLIVY may harm your unborn baby
• Planning to become pregnant: Women should avoid getting pregnant while taking POLIVY. Women should use effective contraception during treatment and for 3 months after their last POLIVY treatment. Men taking POLIVY should use effective contraception during treatment and for 5 months after their last POLIVY treatment
• Breastfeeding: Women should not breastfeed while taking POLIVY and for 2 months after the last dose

These may not be all the side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information about the benefits and risks of POLIVY treatment.

You may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or http://www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Genentech at (888) 835-2555.

Please see the full Prescribing Information for additional Important Safety Information.

References

1. Sawalha Y. Relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a look at the approved and emerging therapies. J Pers Med. 2021;11(12):1345. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm11121345. Accessed June 21, 2023.

2. Wang Y, Farooq U, Link BK, et al. Late relapses in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma treated with immunochemotherapy. J Clin Oncol. 2019;37(21):1819-1827. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.19.00014. Accessed June 21, 2023.

3. Kanas G, Ge W, Quek RGW, Keeven K, Nersesyan K, Arnason JE. Epidemiology of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and follicular lymphoma (FL) in the United States and Western Europe: population-level projections for 2020-2025. Leuk Lymphoma. 2022;63(1):54-63. https://doi.org/10.1080/10428194.2021.1975188. Epub 2021 Sep 11. PMID: 34510995. Accessed June 21, 2023.

4. National Cancer Institute. Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER). Cancer Stat Facts – NHL. Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/dlbcl.html. Accessed June 21, 2023.

5. American Society of Clinical Oncology. Cancer.Net. Lymphoma – Non-Hodgkin: Symptoms and Signs. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/lymphoma-non-hodgkin/symptoms-and-signs. Accessed July 28, 2023.

6. Polivy (polatuzumab vedotin-piiq) Prescribing Information. Genentech, Inc. 2023.

7. Tilly H, Morschhauser F, Sehn L, et al. Polatuzumab vedotin in previously untreated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. N Engl J Med. 2022;386:351-363. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2115304. Accessed July 12, 2023.

2023-12-20T08:55:00

(BPT) – Access to healthcare services, doctors, medications, therapies, and vaccines can have life-changing impacts. That is why healthcare coverage is essential. However, staying covered takes action, especially since the restart of annual eligibility reviews for millions of individuals and families who get their coverage through Medicaid.

What has changed?

During the pandemic, the federal government enacted a Public Health Emergency (PHE), which meant that individuals covered by Medicaid were allowed to stay covered regardless of whether their eligibility had changed. This helped prevent coverage gaps during the health crisis; however, the annual renewal process restarted in early 2023, to ensure Medicaid program enrollees were still eligible to receive benefits.

“This process, called ‘the unwinding,’ impacts approximately 92 million people, who must act to keep coverage, or explore coverage options if they no longer qualify to continue receiving Medicaid, so it can be an anxious time for a lot of individuals and families,” said Kurt Small, Elevance Health Medicaid President.

Reports show that more than 11 million people have been disenrolled from Medicaid since renewals resumed, and approximately 2 million of them are children. Many more could also be at risk if they do not confirm their eligibility.

“I have seen firsthand how health insurance coverage can be complex to navigate,” said Small. “Sometimes people may go without insurance, simply because they weren’t aware of resources that could help them stay covered. But going without health insurance is a risk that no one should have to take, and that is why so many resources have been made available to help.”

Medicaid renewal next steps:

Every state Medicaid program has been actively reaching out to enrollees and directing them to resources for renewing their coverage. If you or a loved one are impacted, and need to review and renew your Medicaid coverage, consider these resources:

• MyHealthBenefitFinder.com — This self-service tool helps people explore available health coverage options. It asks a few, simple questions and provides guidance on how to access coverage. It can also provide information about various low-cost or free resources and programs that can help with other needs, including transportation, housing and childcare.
• Medicaid.gov — This website has several guides to help people understand what they need to do to renew their Medicaid or CHIP coverage, and it helps them find their state’s Medicaid contact information.
• Healthcare.gov — This resource is useful for people who have lost Medicaid eligibility, but may now qualify for a subsidized Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plan on the Marketplace Exchange. For those who qualify, some plans cost as little as $0 a month. Open enrollment periods vary by circumstances and states, but are available to most through January 15, 2024.

In addition to these online resources, Elevance Health’s affiliated health plans provide personalized assistance through dedicated representatives, who are available 12 hours a day, Monday to Friday. These representatives can provide personalized assistance through dedicated representatives who can answer unique questions and offer support in multiple languages. To reach these representatives, health plan members should call the customer service number on their health plan ID card.

“This is an unprecedented time for Medicaid, a program that provides access to critical health care services. I lead Medicaid programs at Elevance Health, which serve more than 11 million people across the nation, and we stand committed to serving as a trusted healthcare partner to provide expert assistance, online tools and other resources that can simplify the renewal and enrollment process, so people can stay covered,” said Small.

2023-12-20T06:01:00

(BPT) – Article is sponsored and developed by BioLineRx USA, Inc.

Mike led an active life. For years, he had attended outdoor exercise classes, played pickleball, biked, hiked and went on daily walks with his wife and caregiver, Jan. However, he began to notice that staying active was getting harder and harder.

His symptoms came to a head in December 2020 when he attended a blood drive donation. He was too anemic to donate and was advised by staff to see a hematologist. Mike couldn’t have guessed that this event would lead to a multiple myeloma diagnosis the following year.

What is multiple myeloma?

You may not be familiar with the disease, but multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells and is the second most common hematologic malignancy.¹ The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 35,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2023.²

While some multiple myeloma patients are asymptomatic, many may experience abnormal blood cell counts and other symptoms, including bone problems, high levels of calcium, nervous system and kidney issues and infections.³ Early detection often allows patients more treatment options.

How is it treated?

Part of the standard of care treatment protocol for multiple myeloma is autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT), ­which consists of collecting, freezing and storing a patient’s blood or bone marrow so they can undergo chemo. Afterward, the stem cells are thawed and transplanted back into the patient.⁴

An ASCT has been shown to prolong survival for patients with this cancer type.⁵ As many as 8,000 ASCTs are performed each year in patients with multiple myeloma.⁶ After taking time to weigh his options, Mike chose to undergo ASCT.

“Someone close to me had undergone a stem cell transplant, so I was familiar with the process. Still, having watched, it’s a hard process to go through, and it was difficult to come to terms with the fact that the procedure was the best option for me to move forward,” said Mike, a patient living with multiple myeloma.

Challenges for patient and caregiver

A challenge many patients face when coordinating apheresis, the process of harvesting their stem cells, is coordinating the collection procedure. For example, Mike and Jan had to temporarily relocate near the hospital where he would undergo apheresis. The hospital was located about three hours from their home, requiring them to rent an apartment in town.

While some patients can collect enough stem cells in one apheresis session, for others it can take several days and sessions to mobilize the target number of stem cells needed for ASCT.^7,8

“On my first day of apheresis, they were only able to collect 1.5 million stem cells. They needed to collect 6 million, enough for two transplants,” said Mike. “After a week, we successfully got 6 million stem cells.”

Because mobilization can be unpredictable, it can be difficult for patients who don’t live near an apheresis clinic to arrange accommodation. Mike and Jan had to extend their stay multiple times in order to complete the apheresis sessions needed for Mike’s transplant.

Beyond the physical and logistical challenges, the uncertainty related to mobilization and apheresis treatment may contribute to the overall burden for patients and caregivers.⁹ Mike was discouraged when he found out the day after his first apheresis treatment that he’d have to go back again due to not collecting enough stem cells.

“He was very frustrated about not being able to get them all collected at one time,” said Jan. “He had very high expectations that it would be done in one session. However, we were able to stay hopeful and focus on what was going well instead of what was not.”

Life after treatment

Luckily, after a few apheresis sessions, the clinic was able to get enough stem cells from Mike and he received ASCT. “I’m six months past the stem cell transplant,” said Mike. “I do have less energy than I used to. I can’t go quite as hard, but I play pickleball three afternoons a week. I ride bikes Saturday mornings, and my wife and I are still walking and hiking.”

Understanding your treatment options

Stem cell collection can be difficult for patients like Mike undergoing apheresis for ASCT.

However, there have been new approaches in the treatment of multiple myeloma, including in induction regimens and stem cell mobilization, and it is important for patients to understand their options.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, talk with your doctor about current treatment options and which may be best for you. For more information about multiple myeloma and ASCT, visit the American Cancer Society at cancer.org, the HealthTree Foundation at healthtree.org/myeloma or the International Myeloma Foundation at myeloma.org. To learn more about the company sponsoring this article, visit: biolinerx.com.

Mike and Jan have been compensated by BioLineRx for sharing their story. Mike’s story is personal and does not represent all people living with multiple myeloma. This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare providers.

+++

1. Kazandjian D. Semin Oncol. 2016 Dec;43(6):676-681.
2. American Cancer Society. Key Statistics About Multiple Myeloma. Atlanta, GA. American Cancer Society; 2023.
3. American Cancer Society. Signs and Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma. Atlanta, GA. American Cancer Society; 2018.
4. American Cancer Society. Types of Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants. Atlanta, GA. American Cancer Society; 2023.
5. Kumar SK, et al. Blood. 2008;111(5):2516-2520.
6. Auletta JJ, et al. Current use and outcome of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: CIBMTR US summary slides. 2021.
7. Edmisson J, et al. Poster presented at: 64^th American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting and Exposition; December 10-13, 2022; New Orleans, LA.
8. DiPersio JF, et al. Blood. 2009;113(23):5720-6.
9. Shaughnessy P, et al. Biol Blood Marrow Transplant. 2013; 19(9):1301-1309.

2023-12-19T12:35:00

(BPT) – Chronic kidney disease, or CKD, is a serious condition that impacts more than 35 million adults in the U.S. – that’s more than one in seven adults. But 90% are unaware that they have it, as most people with kidney disease do not have symptoms until their disease is advanced, at which point irreversible kidney damage may have occurred.

“The reality is that one in three adults in the U.S. is at risk for CKD – making early testing, diagnosis and treatment important to long-term kidney health,” said Dr. Katherine Tuttle, M.D., Executive Director for Research, Providence Inland Northwest Health, Regional Principal investigator for the Institute of Translational Health Sciences and Professor of Medicine at the University of Washington. “With treatment, it’s possible to slow CKD progression and help reduce the risk of complications.”

For those who could be at risk for CKD, Dr. Tuttle shares the following quick facts and tips about the disease, the importance of testing and treatment.

CKD can have a serious impact that reaches far beyond the kidneys.

“CKD is one of a group of diseases that affect the heart, kidneys and pancreas. When one organ is affected, it can negatively impact the others,” says Dr. Tuttle. “The kidneys play a crucial role in the body and contribute to the function of other vital organs and systems. When someone has CKD, their risk for serious complications, like heart failure, increases significantly.”

There are two tests that – when used together – can help detect kidney disease.

Your doctor may perform two tests, a blood test and a urine test:

• eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate): Measures how well the kidneys are filtering blood.
• UACR (Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio): Determines whether there is too much albumin (a type of protein found in the blood) in the urine. Increased albumin in the urine, known as albuminuria, is a marker of kidney damage that increases the risk of kidney disease progression.

Both the eGFR and UACR tests are used to determine the stage of kidney disease and monitor kidney disease progression.

“CKD remains a widely underrecognized public health problem. Knowing the risk factors and talking to your healthcare provider about testing can help,” says Dr. Tuttle. “We have tools to diagnose and treat CKD in people with and without diabetes, so taking action to get tested and start treatment if needed is important for kidney health.”

In September 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Jardiance^® (empagliflozin) 10 mg tablets to reduce the risk of further worsening of kidney disease, end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), death due to cardiovascular disease and hospitalization in adults with CKD. To learn more about Jardiance as a treatment option for CKD, visit Jardiance.com.

What is JARDIANCE?

JARDIANCE is a prescription medicine used to:

• reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with heart failure, when the heart cannot pump enough blood to the rest of your body
• reduce the risk of further worsening of kidney disease, end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), death due to cardiovascular disease, and hospitalization in adults with chronic kidney disease
• reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes who also have known cardiovascular disease
• lower blood sugar along with diet and exercise in adults and children who are 10 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes

JARDIANCE is not for use to lower blood sugar in people with type 1 diabetes. It may increase their risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (increased ketones in the blood or urine).

JARDIANCE is not for use to lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes who have severe kidney problems, because it may not work.

JARDIANCE is not for people with polycystic kidney disease, or who are taking or have recently received certain types of immunosuppressive therapy to treat kidney disease. JARDIANCE is not expected to work if you have these conditions.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Do not take JARDIANCE if you are allergic to empagliflozin or any of the ingredients in JARDIANCE.
Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include:

• rash
• raised, red areas on your skin (hives)
• swelling of your face, lips, mouth, and throat that may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing

If you have any of these symptoms, stop taking JARDIANCE and call your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

JARDIANCE can cause serious side effects, including:

• Diabetic ketoacidosis (increased ketones in your blood or urine) in people with type 1 and other ketoacidosis. JARDIANCE can cause ketoacidosis that can be life-threatening and may lead to death. Ketoacidosis is a serious condition which needs to be treated in a hospital. People with type 1 diabetes have a high risk of getting ketoacidosis. People with type 2 diabetes or pancreas problems also have an increased risk of getting ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis can also happen in people who are sick, cannot eat or drink as usual, skip meals, and are on a diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates (ketogenic diet), take less than the usual amount of insulin or miss insulin doses, drink too much alcohol, have a loss of too much fluid from the body (volume depletion), or who have surgery. Ketoacidosis can happen even if your blood sugar is less than 250 mg/dL. Your healthcare provider may ask you to periodically check ketones in your urine or blood. Stop taking JARDIANCE and call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you get any of the following. If possible, check for ketones in your urine or blood, even if your blood sugar is less than 250 mg/dL:
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • stomach-area (abdominal) pain
  • tiredness
  • trouble breathing
  • ketones in your urine or blood

• Dehydration. JARDIANCE can cause some people to become dehydrated (the loss of body water and salt). Dehydration may cause you to feel dizzy, faint, light-headed, or weak, especially when you stand up. Sudden worsening of kidney function has happened in people who are taking JARDIANCE.

  You may be at a higher risk of dehydration if you:

  • take medicines to lower your blood pressure, including water pills (diuretics)
  • are on a low salt diet
  • have kidney problems
  • are 65 years of age or older

  Talk to your healthcare provider about what you can do to prevent dehydration, including how much fluid you should drink on a daily basis. Call your healthcare provider right away if you reduce the amount of food or liquid you drink, if you are sick or cannot eat, or start to lose liquids from your body from vomiting, diarrhea, or being in the sun too long.

• Vaginal yeast infection. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have vaginal odor, white or yellowish vaginal discharge (discharge may be lumpy or look like cottage cheese), and/or vaginal itching.

• Yeast infection of the skin around the penis. Swelling of an uncircumcised penis may develop that makes it difficult to pull back the skin around the tip of the penis. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have redness, itching or swelling of the penis, rash of the penis, foul smelling discharge from the penis, and/or pain in the skin around the penis.

  Talk to your healthcare provider about what to do if you get symptoms of a yeast infection of the vagina or penis. Your healthcare provider may suggest you use an over-the-counter antifungal medicine. Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you use an over-the-counter antifungal medication and your symptoms do not go away.

• Serious urinary tract infections. Serious urinary tract infections can occur in people taking JARDIANCE and may lead to hospitalization. Tell your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as a burning feeling when passing urine, a need to urinate often or right away, pain in the lower part of your stomach or pelvis, or blood in the urine. Sometimes people also may have a fever, back pain, nausea, or vomiting.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): In adults, if you take JARDIANCE with another medicine that can cause low blood sugar, such as sulfonylurea or insulin, your risk of low blood sugar is higher. In children 10 years of age and older, the risk for low blood sugar is higher with JARDIANCE regardless of use with another medicine that can also lower blood sugar. The dose of your sulfonylurea or insulin may need to be lowered. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include:
  

  headache	irritability
  drowsiness	hunger
  weakness	fast heartbeat
  dizziness	sweating
  confusion	shaking or feeling jittery

• Necrotizing fasciitis. A rare but serious bacterial infection that causes damage to the tissue under the skin in the area between and around your anus and genitals (perineum). This bacterial infection has happened in people who take JARDIANCE, and may lead to hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and death. Seek medical attention immediately if you have a fever or are feeling very weak, tired or uncomfortable (malaise), and you develop any of the following symptoms in the area between and around your anus and genitals: pain or tenderness, swelling, and redness of skin (erythema).

• Amputations. SGLT2 inhibitors may increase your risk of lower limb amputations. You may be at a higher risk of lower limb amputation if you:
  • have a history of amputation
  • have had blocked or narrowed blood vessels, usually in your leg
  • have had diabetic foot infection, ulcers or sores
• Call your healthcare provider right away if you have new pain or tenderness, any sores, ulcers, or infections in your leg or foot. Talk to your healthcare provider about proper foot care.

• Serious allergic reactions. If you have any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, stop taking JARDIANCE and call your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

The most common side effects of JARDIANCE include urinary tract infections and yeast infections in females.

These are not all the possible side effects of JARDIANCE. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Before taking JARDIANCE, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including
if you:

• have type 1 diabetes or have had diabetic ketoacidosis
• have a decrease in your insulin dose
• have a serious infection
• have a history of infection of the vagina or penis
• have a history of amputation
• have kidney problems
• have liver problems
• have a history of urinary tract infections or problems with urination
• are on a low sodium (salt) diet. Your healthcare provider may change your diet or dose
• are going to have surgery. Your healthcare provider may stop JARDIANCE before you have surgery. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are having surgery about when to stop taking JARDIANCE and when to start it again
• are eating less or there is a change in your diet
• are dehydrated
• have or have had problems with your pancreas, including pancreatitis or surgery on your pancreas
• drink alcohol very often, or drink a lot of alcohol in the short term (“binge” drinking)
• have ever had an allergic reaction to JARDIANCE
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. JARDIANCE may harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant during treatment with JARDIANCE
• are breastfeeding or are planning to breastfeed. JARDIANCE may pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Do not breastfeed while taking JARDIANCE

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

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.

For more information, please see Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.

MPR-US-102610

2023-12-19T06:01:00

(BPT) – When her husband of 30 years was diagnosed with cancer, Cindy wanted to learn as much as she could about new approaches to cancer screenings and care. During his treatments, Cindy spent time researching and decided to be proactive to take care of her health for her family. As a Cuban American, family means everything to Cindy, who has three children and two grandchildren.

There are currently only five recommended cancer screenings in the United States, including mammograms and colonoscopies.[1] Cancers without widespread screening recommendations represent 71% of all cancer diagnoses in the U.S. among individuals aged 50-79.[2] While early detection has been proven to significantly improve cancer survival rates and reduce the cost and complexity of cancer treatment,[3,4] most cancers are detected too late.

“After my husband’s treatment, I wanted to be proactive, so we went to the doctor. And while we were there, he mentioned to us about the Galleri test. Even though I felt fine, my husband said ‘just do the test.’”

During her appointment Cindy’s doctor ordered the Galleri^® test which screens for a signal shared by multiple types of cancers through a single blood draw and can detect this signal even before symptoms appear. If a cancer signal is detected, the test can predict the tissue type or organ associated with the cancer signal with high accuracy to help guide diagnostic evaluation.

Early Detection is Key

Cindy was surprised when she received a cancer signal detected result since she had no symptoms. She saw a hematologist for diagnostic evaluation, and it was confirmed, via biopsy, that she had lymphoma. Lymphoma, a group of blood cancers that develops in the lymphatic system, is often aggressive and not detected until advanced stages.[5]

“I went to a hematologist, and he told me that I was one of the earliest stage patients that he’s treated,” recalled Cindy. “It’s very rare to catch this type of cancer in the beginning, because there often aren’t any symptoms.”

“I’m so happy that I’m able to still be with my family, still be strong, still be able to be around for my grandkids,” said Cindy.

Spreading the Word

After navigating their cancer journeys, Cindy and her husband want to help educate others on the importance of proactively taking care of your health, especially for those with increased risk of cancer.

“You know, this whole journey, it’s not about us, it’s about sharing this with others, so that others can benefit from it,” Cindy’s husband emphasized.

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 with lymphoma cancer was 56.3% (27.3% for Stage I, 58.3% for Stage II, 71.7% for Stage III and 60.9% for 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. cestaskforce.org/uspstf/topic_search_results.

[2] SEER Stat Database: Incidence -SEER 18 Regs Research Data, Nov 2017 Sub. Includes persons aged 50+ diagnosed 2006-2015. GRAIL, LLC. Data on File GA-2021-0065.

[3] Siegel RL, Miller KD, Wagle NS, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2023. CA Cancer J Clin. 2023 Jan;73(1):17-48. doi: 10.3322/caac.21763.

[4] Reddy SR, Broder MS, Chang E, et al. Cost of cancer management by stage at diagnosis among Medicare beneficiaries. Curr Med Res Opin. 2022;38(8):1285-1294. doi: 10.1080/03007995.2022.204 7536.

[5] National Cancer Institute. Cancer Types: Lymphoma. https://www.cancer.gov/types/lymphoma.

2023-12-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – Moira manages her depression and tardive dyskinesia and is supported by her husband and care partner Forrest.

This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. Moira and Forrest were compensated by Neurocrine Biosciences to share their story.

While the holiday season can often be “the most wonderful time of the year” for many, it can also bring on overwhelming feelings of stress and isolation. According to a 2014 survey conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64 percent of people with mental illness say the holidays make their psychiatric condition worse. As such, it’s important to recognize and show support to those who may experience a difficult time during the holiday season. Read on for a unique story from a couple who provide their perspective on how to handle this time of the year.

Moira and Forrest met while they were both working in New York City. Several years after they married, an opportunity arose that prompted them to move to Long Island, New York. While Moira found herself prone to depression her entire life, the move caused her condition to worsen. “There was just a lot going on and a lot to think about in life,” said Moira. “Despite the excitement of our prospects, I found myself falling into a deep depression.”

Around 2009, her psychiatrist prescribed her an antipsychotic, which she says helped manage her depression, but within a year Moira began experiencing uncontrollable movements and eventually saw a neurologist who diagnosed her with tardive dyskinesia (TD). Moira was worried about the implications TD would have on her career as a pastor and began to withdraw from her social and family life, but she found support with Forrest.

TD is an involuntary movement disorder associated with prolonged use of certain mental health medicines (antipsychotics), characterized by uncontrollable, abnormal and repetitive movements of the face, torso, limbs, and fingers or toes. It is a chronic condition that affects approximately 600,000 people in the U.S. The uncontrollable movements of TD can impact people physically, socially and emotionally. People with TD have often reported feeling judged and ashamed. “Early on, I would get very discouraged, and I would just obsess over my movements and feel like I was trapped,” said Moira.

To help manage her TD symptoms, in 2017 Moira’s psychiatrist prescribed her INGREZZA^® (valbenazine) capsules. Only INGREZZA offers simple dosing that’s always one-capsule, once-daily to treat adults with the uncontrollable movements of TD.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

INGREZZA can cause serious side effects in people with Huntington’s disease, including: depression, suicidal thoughts, or suicidal actions. Tell your healthcare provider before you start taking INGREZZA if you have Huntington’s disease and are depressed (have untreated depression or depression that is not well controlled by medicine) or have suicidal thoughts. Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is especially important when INGREZZA is started and when the dose is changed. Call your healthcare provider right away if you become depressed, have unusual changes in mood or behavior, or have thoughts of hurting yourself.

Do not take INGREZZA if you are allergic to valbenazine, or any of the ingredients in INGREZZA.

Please see full Important Safety Information, including Boxed Warning, below and Prescribing Information.

About three weeks after Moira started taking INGREZZA, Forrest noticed a reduction in her uncontrollable movements, and Moira started noticing less movement around four to six weeks after beginning treatment, while maintaining her mental health medication regimen. “With INGREZZA, I have less uncontrollable movements, which makes me feel more confident being around people,” she said. Individual results may vary. Some taking INGREZZA begin to notice reduction in movements at two weeks with clinical results at six weeks.

Moira and Forrest recognize that having an established treatment plan in place to manage mental health is important throughout the year, but especially during times that can be overwhelming and challenging, such as the holiday season. “As Moira’s husband and care partner, especially during times that are particularly busy or stressful, we work together to stick with our healthy practices, including exercising together, while prioritizing Moira’s mental health,” said Forrest. This holiday season, Moira and Forrest are sharing their best practices on how to manage mental health based on what has worked for them over the years:

1. Find a support system

While friends and family can provide support, there are other avenues for developing supportive relationships as well, including finding a community for those living with shared experiences.

“While my circle of friends is small, they provide me solid support, alongside my church, therapist and a spiritual director. I’ve also started sharing my experiences with TD, and I’m looking forward to having more opportunities to do so,” Moira said.

2. Focus on life outside of tardive dyskinesia

Especially during challenging times, it may be helpful to reframe your mindset to stick with healthy practices and find moments of joy in life. Moira keeps up with the physical fitness program she does with Forrest and enjoys spending time with members of her church and preparing for holiday festivities by decorating her Christmas tree, caroling and watching holiday movies by the fire.

“I believe people with TD need to be encouraged that they’re not their illness,” Moira said. “I needed to find a way to live with my illness without shoving it in a corner and pretending it doesn’t exist.”

3. Advocate for yourself to your doctor

If you or someone you know has been treated for a mental health condition and experience uncontrollable movements, it may be TD. Start a conversation with your doctor or mental health professional about your symptoms and how they may be impacting your everyday life, especially your emotional well-being, such as Moira experienced. There are ways to help manage your uncontrollable movements.

By sharing their experience, Moira and Forrest hope to shed light on the importance of supporting those with mental illness and TD this holiday season and empower people to advocate for the treatment they need.

Visit INGREZZA.com to learn more about TD and resources to start a conversation with your doctor about possible treatment options, including INGREZZA.

Important Information

Approved Uses

INGREZZA^® (valbenazine) capsules is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with:

• movements in the face, tongue, or other body parts that cannot be controlled (tardive dyskinesia).
• involuntary movements (chorea) of Huntington’s disease. INGREZZA does not cure the cause of involuntary movements, and it does not treat other symptoms of Huntington’s disease, such as problems with thinking or emotions.

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

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

VMAT2 inhibitors, including INGREZZA, can cause serious side effects in people with Huntington’s disease, including: depression, suicidal thoughts, or suicidal actions. Tell your healthcare provider before you start taking INGREZZA if you have Huntington’s disease and are depressed (have untreated depression or depression that is not well controlled by medicine) or have suicidal thoughts. Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. This is especially important when INGREZZA is started and when the dose is changed. Call your healthcare provider right away if you become depressed, have unusual changes in mood or behavior, or have thoughts of hurting yourself.

Do not take INGREZZA if you:

• are allergic to valbenazine, or any of the ingredients in INGREZZA.

INGREZZA may cause serious side effects, including:

• Sudden swelling from an allergic reaction (angioedema). Sudden swelling has happened after the first dose or after many doses of INGREZZA. Signs and symptoms of angioedema include: swelling of your face, lips, throat, and other areas of your skin, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and raised, red areas on your skin (hives). Swelling in the throat can be life-threatening and can lead to death. Go to the nearest emergency room right away if you develop these signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider should stop your treatment with INGREZZA.
• Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation). INGREZZA may cause a heart problem known as QT prolongation. Symptoms of QT prolongation may include: fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat, dizziness or fainting, or shortness of breath.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have a change in your heartbeat (a fast or irregular heartbeat), or if you faint.

• Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): NMS is a serious condition that can lead to death. Call a healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest emergency room if you develop these symptoms and they do not have another obvious cause: high fever, stiff muscles, problems thinking, very fast or uneven heartbeat, or increased sweating.
• Abnormal movements (Parkinson-like). Symptoms include: shaking, body stiffness, trouble moving or walking, or keeping your balance.

Before taking INGREZZA, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions including if you: have liver or heart problems, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

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

Sleepiness (sedation) is a common side effect with INGREZZA. While taking INGREZZA, do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how INGREZZA affects you. Drinking alcohol and taking other drugs that may also cause sleepiness while you are taking INGREZZA may increase any sleepiness caused by INGREZZA.

The most common side effect of INGREZZA in people with tardive dyskinesia is sleepiness (somnolence).

The most common side effects of INGREZZA in people with Huntington’s disease are sleepiness (somnolence), allergic itching, rash, and trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep.

These are not all of the possible side effects of INGREZZA. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit MedWatch at www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see INGREZZA full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning.

This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. Moira and Forrest were compensated by Neurocrine Biosciences to share their story.

©2023 Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. All Rights Reserved. CP-VBZ-US-3091 12/2023