Category: Brandpoint Health

2023-11-22T09:01:00

(BPT) – During the month of November, we honor our nation’s veterans for their hard work and dedication to protect everyone’s freedoms. It’s also an important time to recognize their freedom and desire to live a high quality of life after their service is complete. To do this, veterans need access to the health care they have earned.

Veterans deserve safe and cost-effective health services

Ongoing health care provider shortages, coupled with an increasing number of veterans seeking care with new authorizations in the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, mean that wait times for procedures have increased. Some procedures may even require travel for veterans in rural areas who don’t have access to necessary anesthesia and pain management services at local U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities.

To address these, the VA is developing National Standards of Practice for many providers working in the VA that will ensure safety and access to care for veterans. This includes using clinical and scientific data to develop standards for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, also called CRNAs. Unfortunately, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) want to restrict CRNAs from providing direct care to patients. These organizations believe that anesthesia services can only be safely provided when a physician anesthesiologist is monitoring the case, often along with four to five other cases and often from outside the hospital.

However, the VA has stated that CRNAs provide safe and effective care, comparable to a physician anesthesiologist. Multiple independent studies have proven the safety of CRNA-only provided care. Patient satisfaction scores at some CRNA-only VA facilities are higher than average for VA facilities across the country, according to VA patient satisfaction data. In fact, a CRNA-only facility in Iowa was recently ranked among the top 25 in the nation.

“As we celebrate our veterans, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) calls on our anesthesia colleagues to work to ensure timely access to care for our veterans. We do not serve our veterans by maintaining models of care that no longer meet the needs of the VA,” said Dru Riddle, PhD, DNP, CRNA, FAAN, AANA President and director of Clinical Education at Texas Christian University School of Nurse Anesthesia in Fort Worth, Texas.

Who are CRNAs?

CRNAs are board-certified advanced practice registered nurses who administer anesthesia and related care to patients autonomously, and they are often the sole anesthesia providers delivering care to the military, rural and medically-underserved populations. Their advanced education and clinical expertise have proven time and again to be instrumental in delivering quality health care to patients.

CRNAs have the ability to work autonomously in the Army, Navy and Air Force, and are the predominant provider of anesthesia on forward surgical teams and in combat support hospitals. Yet, CRNAs who care for wounded soldiers on battlefields are not allowed the same autonomy when they safely and cost-effectively provide quality anesthesia care to veterans here at home.

“As a CRNA who has served as both the Anesthesia Element Team Lead over both physician anesthesiologists and CRNAs in the largest in-country medical facility in Afghanistan, and also as the sole anesthesia provider at a Special Forces Forward Operating Base, I know first-hand that unrivaled anesthesia care is provided by CRNAs without duplicative and unnecessary supervision,” said AANA President-elect Jan Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col. (Ret) USAFR, NC, a retired colonel of the United States Air Force Reserve with 26 years of honorable service as a flight nurse, a CRNA, and a senior staff member for the Air Force Surgeon General.

For more information and to voice your opinion on the importance of access to CRNAs for veterans, visit AnesthesiaFacts.com.

2023-11-22T11:31:01

(BPT) – By Dr. Peter Sebeny

In today’s pop culture, the term “pandemic” is synonymous with COVID-19. However, over the course of human history, some of the deadliest pandemics have been caused by the influenza (flu) virus.¹

Since then, the scientific community has pursued groundbreaking advancements in improving protection against the flu.¹ We know more about influenza viruses than ever before and have developed the capacity to design, manufacture and distribute vaccines and antiviral drugs.¹ However, flu shot public health guidance has been overshadowed in recent years with increased public health messaging around COVID-19 and more recently, RSV. The flu has become an afterthought for many people, and this upcoming 2023-2024 flu season may present a severe threat as the U.S. could face a resurgence of flu.²

Understanding the flu and its complications

“The flu” has been a common name for decades, so many people may downplay the potential threats hiding in plain sight, like a wolf in sheep’s clothing – but the flu is more serious than people may think.³ The flu can lead to or worsen potentially life-threatening flu-related complications, including pneumonia, heart attack, stroke, and hospitalization, especially in older adults.^3,4

Receiving a flu shot each year can help protect yourself from flu and its complications.^5,6 Flu vaccination has also been shown to help reduce the risk of getting sick with flu and help reduce the risk of having a serious flu outcome, like requiring a stay in the hospital or even being admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).⁷

A seasonal flu vaccination is especially important for older adults who are at an increased risk for serious flu-related complications.⁸

Improving flu protection for older adults

Anyone can get the flu, but certain groups – including people who are pregnant, have certain chronic health conditions or are age 65 and older – are at an increased risk of flu-related complications.⁸

During most flu seasons, older adults bear the greatest burden of severe flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates between 70-85% of seasonal flu-related deaths and 50-70% of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations since 2010 have occurred among people 65 years and older.⁹

In 2022, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) granted preferential recommendation for the use of Fluzone High-Dose^® Quadrivalent (Influenza Vaccine), Flublok^® Quadrivalent (Influenza Vaccine) and an adjuvanted flu vaccine for adults age 65 years and older. The recommendation was reaffirmed in 2023.^10,11

Sanofi’s two higher-dose influenza vaccines, Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent and Flublok Quadrivalent, have shown better flu protection than standard-dose flu shots in older adults.^12,13

Flublok Quadrivalent and Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent are indicated for immunization against disease caused by influenza A and B strains contained in the vaccine. Flublok Quadrivalent is given to people 18 years of age and older. Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent is given to people 65 years of age and older.

Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent (Influenza Vaccine) has been licensed for use in adults 65 years of age and older and has demonstrated superior efficacy in a randomized controlled trial versus a standard-dose Fluzone^® (Influenza Vaccine) for the prevention of laboratory-confirmed influenza illness.

Study Design: Based on a clinical trial of ~32,000 adults 65+ conducted during 2 flu seasons, 2011-2012 and 2012-2013, where an influenza case was laboratory tested.

Compared with Fluzone, the most common side effects were slightly more frequent and included pain and redness where you got the shot, muscle ache, and headache.

Flublok Quadrivalent (Influenza Vaccine) has been licensed for use in adults 18 years of age and older and has proven to be 30% more effective than a Fluarix® Quadrivalent (Influenza Vaccine) in preventing flu in adults 50+.

Study Design: Randomized, controlled clinical trial of ~9,000 adults 50+ conducted during 2014-2015 flu (or influenza) season.

In adults 50 years of age and older, the most common side effects were pain and/or tenderness at the injection site, headache, and tiredness.

This vulnerable population may require better protection that a standard-dose vaccine may not provide.^9,10,11

Making a plan to get your flu shot

Fortunately, the global public health landscape has come a long way since 1919 and we are more prepared than ever to help prevent illness, hospitalization and death from flu. To help protect our communities from another dangerous flu pandemic, the CDC recommends people age six months and older get a yearly flu vaccine with rare exception.⁵ Many local health departments and clinics offer low cost or free flu vaccinations, and most health insurance plans cover recommended vaccines at little to no cost.¹⁴

Visit SanofiFluShots.com to find the Sanofi flu shot provider nearest you and learn more about your flu vaccine options. Older adults, particularly those with one or more chronic health conditions, should speak to their healthcare provider about Sanofi flu vaccine options that may be right for them, which may include Sanofi’s Fluzone^® High-Dose Quadrivalent (Influenza Vaccine) or Flublok^® Quadrivalent (Influenza Vaccine).^6,9,12,13

Sanofi flu vaccines are available at Walgreens, Kroger, Albertsons and Walmart nationwide. Schedule an appointment and/or drop into your local store’s pharmacy to request yours today.

What are FLUBLOK® QUADRIVALENT (INFLUENZA VACCINE) and FLUZONE® HIGH-DOSE QUADRIVALENT (INFLUENZA VACCINE)?

Flublok Quadrivalent and Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent are indicated for immunization against disease caused by influenza A and B strains contained in the vaccine. Flublok Quadrivalent is given to people 18 years of age and older. Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent is given to people 65 years of age and older.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Flublok Quadrivalent and Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent should not be given to anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to any component of the vaccine (including egg protein for Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent). In addition, Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent should not be given to anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction after previous dose of any influenza vaccine.

Tell your health care provider if you have ever had Guillain-Barré syndrome (severe muscle weakness) after a previous influenza vaccination.

If Flublok Quadrivalent and Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent are given to people with a compromised immune system, including those receiving therapies that suppress the immune system, the immune response may be lower than expected.

Vaccination with Flublok Quadrivalent and Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent may not protect all people who receive the vaccine.

For Flublok Quadrivalent, in adults 18 through 49 years of age, the most common side effects were tenderness, and/or pain where you got the shot; headache, tiredness, muscle aches, and joint pain. In adults 50 years of age and older the most common side effects were tenderness, and/or pain where you got the shot; headache, and tiredness.

For Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, in adults 65 years of age and older, the most common side effects were pain, redness, and/or swelling where you got the shot; muscle aches, headache, and general discomfort.

For Flublok Quadrivalent and Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, other side effects may occur.

For more information, talk to your health care professional and refer to the full Prescribing Information for Flublok Quadrivalent or Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent. Also, please see complete Patient Information for Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent.

References

1. Institute of Medicine (US) Forum on Microbial Threats; Knobler SL, Mack A, Mahmoud A, et al., editors. The Threat of Pandemic Influenza: Are We Ready? Workshop Summary. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2005. 1, The Story of Influenza. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK22148/
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Key Facts About Influenza (Flu). Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm. Accessed September 2023.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Who Needs a Flu Vaccine. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccinations.htm. Accessed September 2023.
4. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu Symptoms & Complications. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/symptoms.htm. Accessed October 2023.
5. Dunkle, Lisa, Izikson, Ruvim, et al. Efficacy of Recombinant Influenza Vaccine in Adults 50 Years of Age or Older. N Engl J Med 2017. 376:2427-2436. Accessed October 2023.
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People at Higher Risk of Flu Complications. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm. Accessed September 2023.
7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu & People 65 Years and Older. Available at: https://cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/65over.htm. Accessed September 2023.
8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2023–24 Influenza Season. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/rr/rr7202a1.htm?s_cid=rr7202a1_w Accessed September 2023.
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ACIP Flu Meeting Update: Flu Vaccines Worked Better than Reported & ACIP Recommends Specific Vaccines for Seniors. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/spotlights/2021-2022/specific-vaccines-seniors.htm. Accessed September 2023.
10. Fluzone High Dose Quadrivalent [Prescribing Information]. Swiftwater, PA: Sanofi. Accessed September 2023.
11. Flublok Quadrivalent [Prescribing Information]. Swiftwater, PA: Sanofi. Accessed September 2023.
12. National Foundation for Infectious Diseases. Flu and Older Adults. Available at: https://www.nfid.org/infectious-diseases/flu-and-older-adults/
13. Dhanasekaran, V., Sullivan, S., Edwards, K.M. et al. Human seasonal influenza under COVID-19 and the potential consequences of influenza lineage elimination. Nat Commun 13, 1721 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-022-29402-5. Accessed July 2023.
14. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Immunization. Getting Vaccinated. Hot to Pay. Available at: https://www.hhs.gov/immunization/get-vaccinated/pay/index.html. Accessed September 2023.

MAT-US-2309132-v1.0-10/2023

2023-11-20T14:33:00

(BPT) – Holiday shopping and gift-giving can often be challenging, but even more so when shopping for a person living with dementia. There are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. Depending on the stage of disease, some well-intentioned gifts may no longer be appropriate or practical for the person.

For the holiday season, the Alzheimer’s Association has released its 2023 Holiday Gift Guide, offering gift ideas for individuals living in the early, middle and late stages of Alzheimer’s disease. The guide also includes gift suggestions aimed at keeping those living with dementia engaged and involved in everyday tasks, as well as gift ideas for the 11 million family members and friends across the country serving as unpaid caregivers for these individuals.

5 gifts for people living with Alzheimer’s – in the early stages

• Sticky notes or an erasable white board to list reminders or the day’s activities.
• Baskets or trays that can be labeled within cabinets or drawers.
• Gift cards for ride-sharing services or a favorite activity (golf, movie, restaurant) allowing the person to remain active.
• GPS trackers (bracelets, watches, small trackers) or enrollment in a safe return program to keep the person safe.
• A “memory” calendar featuring family photos — write in special family occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries.

5 gifts for people living with Alzheimer’s – in the middle-to-late stages

• Music playlists that include the person’s favorite artists or songs.
• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that is easy to put on, remove and wash, such as sweat suits, slip-on blouses/shirts, non-slip socks, Velcro shoes, wrinkle-free nightgowns, nightshirts or a fluffy bathrobe.
• Framed photographs or a photo collage created specifically for your loved one. Insert the names of the people in the photos to help with identification.
• Soothing gifts that can help with anxiety like a handheld massage ball or a soft blanket.
• Adaptive dining equipment such as no-spill cups, plate guards and silverware with specifically designed handles that enables greater independence during meals.

5 gifts to help with everyday tasks and keep the person living with Alzheimer’s engaged:

• A memory phone that can store pictures with the names and contact information of family and friends.
• Nightlights that activate automatically when it gets dark.
• A digital clock with large type to indicate date and time.
• An outing to a movie, play or concert, sporting event, museum or possibly an organized holiday shopping trip with friends and family.
• Engage your loved one in making homemade gifts for the family, painting ornaments, decorating stockings, table setting, scrapbooking or other activity gifts.

5 gifts for dementia caregivers

• The most important gift you can give a dementia caregiver is the gift of time. In fact, just a 20-minute break each day can help lower a caregiver’s stress and help avoid burnout.
• Self-made coupons for cleaning the house, cooking a meal, mowing the lawn or shoveling the driveway.
• Gift cards and certificates for restaurants or meal delivery, laundry/dry cleaning services, lawn care services, computer/technology support, maid services, and personal pampering services such as massages and pedicures.
• Books – in addition to giving novels on the caregiver’s “must read” list, there are a number of books on caregiving and maintaining self-health.
• Self-care items such as a bundle of personal care items (moisturizers, bath bombs and soaks, foot creams, scrubs, soaps).

For more tips on how families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias can safely enjoy time with family and friends during the holidays, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website. The Alzheimer’s Association provides information, programs and services at no charge to help families facing Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. For additional information, visit alz.org or call the free 24-hour Helpline at 800.272.3900.

2023-11-20T10:15:00

(BPT) – Approximately 1 in 100 people are believed to be living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic, often painful inflammatory skin condition that can become more severe over time, if not treated.^1,2 Because HS may be a result of your immune system malfunctioning, it can be hard to pin down a diagnosis.^3,4

Those living with HS commonly have recurring, painful bumps or boil-like nodules, mainly in areas of the body where skin meets skin.² These lumps can become sores or abscesses that may leak, carry odor and leave scars.^1,2 Despite these symptoms, there are a number of reasons why people don’t get the help they need, such as embarrassment and shame, misdiagnosis and difficulty getting to the right healthcare provider.^5,6

“HS is one of the most devastating dermatological conditions, and there’s a high unmet need for patients in terms of accelerating diagnosis and expanding treatment options,” says dermatologist Vivian Shi, M.D., FAAD, Associate Professor in the Department of Dermatology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS).^7,8

Shame & Embarrassment Stand in the Way

People with HS are often too embarrassed to talk about their symptoms. Dr. Shi shared, “Many patients believe they caused their HS through lifestyle choices, but HS can occur due to genetic, hormonal, or environmental factors. The simple truth is HS can affect anyone.”^3,4

HS is not contagious but has been reported to run in families.^1,4 Dr. Shi highlights, “I’ve heard people express guilt of potentially passing HS on to their children or shame that they can’t maintain employment due to HS.”^1,9

HS is Commonly Misdiagnosed

Several conditions resemble the symptoms of HS, making diagnosis difficult.⁴ For example, acne can resemble HS, but HS differs in the appearance of active lesions and location.^2,4,10 HS generally appears in more intimate areas, such as under the breasts, in the armpit, or in the groin, whereas acne typically shows up on the face, chest and back and does not form sinus tracts or draining tunnels.^2,10,11

Due to the intimate location of symptoms, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are also a common misdiagnosis that can cause feelings of shame.^2,4 “Some STIs have common symptoms to HS, including inflammation and pus, so it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider and rule this out,” said Dr. Shi.

Identifying the Right Healthcare Provider Can Be Tricky

On average, it may take people up to 10 years and seeing up to 10 doctors for their HS symptoms before getting a correct diagnosis.^6,8 However, Dr. Shi noted she’s seen even longer delays, especially in rural or low socioeconomic urban areas: “I have encountered people who have gone a significant amount of their adult life without a diagnosis or who have had surgery on nodules and haven’t ever heard the term ‘HS.’”¹²

Dermatologists like Dr. Shi regularly diagnose and treat chronic skin conditions like HS.³ “Patients often visit a primary physician or urgent care with symptoms, but recent studies have shown that some primary care and OB/GYN providers reported feeling less confident in diagnosing and treating HS.^13,14,15 It is critical for patients to self-advocate, track symptoms and seek a dermatology specialist for advanced care and maintenance treatment,” added Dr. Shi.

Navigating the Treatment Path

Once HS is diagnosed, treatment should be customized based on the individual’s medical history, needs and preferences.¹⁶ Dr. Shi highlights that managing HS requires a holistic approach, saying, “You have to understand the whole body and all the treatment resources available and consider using these in combination. I like to think of treating HS like playing a football game; you wouldn’t rely on just the quarterback — you need the whole team.”

Common treatments for HS include lifestyle modification, hormonal modulation, antibiotics, surgery and biologics.³ A new biologic treatment option, recently approved by the FDA for adults with moderate to severe HS, is Cosentyx^® (secukinumab).¹⁷ Cosentyx is thought to treat HS from within by inhibiting interleukin-17A (IL-17A), a protein believed to play a role in the inflammation leading to HS symptoms.^17,18

Although it can be challenging to get an accurate diagnosis and care for HS, support is available. Online resources and HS advocacy communities are great places to get information and connect with people living with the same condition. And most importantly, find a doctor who can help navigate HS and provide appropriate care.

To learn more about Cosentyx as a potential treatment option for HS, visit Cosentyx.com.

INDICATION

COSENTYX^® (secukinumab) is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not use COSENTYX if you have had a severe allergic reaction to secukinumab or any of the other ingredients in COSENTYX. See the Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients.

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

COSENTYX is a medicine that affects your immune system. COSENTYX may increase your risk of having serious side effects such as:

Infections

COSENTYX may lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections and may increase your risk of infections. Some people have died from these infections.

• Your doctor should check you for tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment with COSENTYX.
• If your doctor feels that you are at risk for TB, you may be treated with medicine for TB before you begin treatment with COSENTYX and during treatment with COSENTYX.
• Your doctor should watch you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during treatment with COSENTYX. Do not use COSENTYX if you have an active TB infection.

Before starting COSENTYX, tell your doctor if you:

• are being treated for an infection
• have an infection that does not go away or that keeps coming back
• have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB
• think you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection such as: fevers, sweats, or chills; muscle aches; cough; shortness of breath; blood in your phlegm; weight loss; warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body; diarrhea or stomach pain; burning when you urinate or urinate more often than normal.

After starting COSENTYX, call your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection listed above. Do not use COSENTYX if you have any signs of infection unless you are instructed to by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of COSENTYX?

COSENTYX may cause serious side effects, including:

Serious allergic reactions

Serious allergic reactions can occur. Get emergency medical help right away if you get any of the following symptoms: feeling faint; swelling of your face, eyelids, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat; trouble breathing or throat tightness; chest tightness; skin rash or hives (red, itchy bumps).

If you have a severe allergic reaction, do not give another injection of COSENTYX.

Inflammatory bowel disease

New cases of inflammatory bowel disease or “flare-ups” can happen with COSENTYX, and can sometimes be serious. If you have inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), tell your doctor if you have worsening disease symptoms during treatment with COSENTYX or develop new symptoms of stomach pain or diarrhea.

Severe skin reactions that look like eczema can happen during treatment with COSENTYX from days to months after your first dose and can sometimes lead to hospitalization. Your doctor may temporarily stop treatment with COSENTYX if you develop severe skin reactions. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following signs or symptoms: redness or rash; itching; small bumps or patches; your skin is dry or feels like leather; blisters on the hands or feet that ooze or become crusty or skin peeling.

The most common side effects of COSENTYX include: cold symptoms, diarrhea, and upper respiratory tract infections.

These are not all of the possible side effects of COSENTYX. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Before using COSENTYX, tell your doctor if you:

• have any of the conditions or symptoms listed above for infections.
• have inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis).
• are allergic to latex. The needle cap on the COSENTYX Sensoready^® pen, and 150 mg/mL and 75 mg/0.5 mL prefilled syringes contains latex.
• have recently received or are scheduled to receive an immunization (vaccine). People who take COSENTYX should not receive live vaccines. Children should be brought up to date with all vaccines before starting COSENTYX.
• have any other medical conditions and all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Keep a list of your medicines to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if COSENTYX can harm your unborn baby. You and your doctor should decide if you will use COSENTYX.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if COSENTYX passes into your breast milk.

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.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide.

2023-11-20T05:01:00

(BPT) – You don’t always know what’s in your gene pool. Even with a detailed family health history, you may not have a complete picture for what you’re at risk for developing. In fact, according to a 2018 research study, more than 80% of people with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 variant did not know they have one.

That said, genetic testing can be expensive, even if you have insurance. Many people do not have a family history of cancer that would qualify them for traditional genetic testing through a healthcare professional. However, 23andMe has expanded its BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk Report*, providing an affordable option that gives folks, especially those in underserved communities, access to their genetics. This report can help individuals identify their risk of developing breast cancer and other diseases.

Affordable genetic testing with powerful results

In 2018, 23andMe received the first Federal Drug Administration (FDA) authorization for a direct-to-consumer genetic test for cancer risk to report three variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes are known to be associated with a higher risk for breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancer.

Now, the company has received FDA clearance to expand its report, allowing 23andMe customers to learn whether they have one or more of 44 genetic variants found on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Women with even just one of these genetic variants can have up to an 85% greater risk of developing breast or other associated cancers than the general population.

This new report hands consumers powerful information that they can use to work with a healthcare professional to mitigate their health risks. However, what makes it stand out is its potential to close the health care gap for traditionally underserved populations.

How underserved communities can benefit from genetic testing

The 44 BRCA1/BRCA2 variants the company now tests for account for roughly 30-40% of cancer-related BRCA1/BRCA2 variants among people of African American, non-Ashkenazi European and Hispanic/Latino descent and several variants found in people of East Asian and South Asian descent.

The expanded report is just one way 23andMe is making progress on its mission to help people access, understand and benefit from the human genome, especially for traditionally underserved communities. There are significant disparities in access to BRCA1/BRCA2 genetic testing in some communities in the U.S., including the Black, Hispanic/Latino and Asian communities. Black Americans also experience dramatic disparities in breast cancer outcomes, according to published research by the American Cancer Society.

How you can learn more about your genetic health risks

New and existing 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers who were genotyped on the company’s most recent platform can access the expanded BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk Report. The report also includes an education module so individuals are fully informed of what they can learn from this report and how to use the results before viewing the report.

The 23andMe BRCA1/BRCA2 (Selected Variants) Genetic Health Risk report is not a comprehensive genetic test, is intended for adults, does not diagnose cancer and should not be used on its own to make medical decisions. Genetic variants found in the 23andMe report require confirmatory testing. However, knowing you have a variant provides a critical opportunity to discuss options with your healthcare provider, get confirmatory genetic testing and take preventive action. To learn more, visit 23andMe.com/DNA-Health-Ancestry.

*To learn more about the genetic health risk report mentioned here as well as other important information about 23andMe, please see site for details.

2023-11-17T14:45:00

(BPT) – With open enrollment in full swing, millions of Americans face the annual challenge of choosing the right health plan for themselves and their families. Questions such as “Is this enough insurance?” or “Am I paying for too much insurance?” or “Is there a better option for my budget and health conditions?” are frequently pondered as people attempt to make sense of the maze of terminology and coverage on the screens in front of them.

This Open Enrollment season, however, navigating the world of health insurance just got a whole lot easier — thanks to an insurance industry veteran who had a big idea and created the innovative new online “health plan matchmaker,” The Big Plan.

“In my 30-plus years of helping families find the right health insurance, I knew there had to be a better, simpler way to remove the confusion and chaos of the yearly open enrollment dread that so many people hated,” said Carey Gruenbaum, chief executive officer of The Big Plan. “We wanted to — and I think we have — rewritten the rules on how Americans can find the right health insurance plan at the right price to meet their medical needs and within their budget.”

The Big Plan platform provides an easy-to-use, end-to-end health plan selection experience, utilizing proprietary actuarial guidance blended with A.I. technology to deliver personalized recommendations based on user-provided data — while also identifying any available government subsidies.

There is no fee for consumers to use The Big Plan — rather, the expert guidance is completely free of charge. Additionally, any data collected is encrypted and not sold to third parties for targeting or advertising purposes.

“Our health plan matchmaker platform makes the whole process simpler and better, because it is completely about the user,” said Gruenbaum. “We offer unbiased expertise that helps individuals select a health plan that’s right for them. It’s all based on real data, without the potentially biased input from health plan representatives or insurance brokers who may be driven to recommend plans that pay them a higher commission.”

Visitors to TheBigPlan.com simply answer questions about themselves and their family members. Then in about a minute, The Big Plan’s A.I.-powered engine searches all plans and finds the best match based on a user’s medical score, projects spending on each plan, and clearly describes the benefits of each recommended plan. Users can compare plans side-by-side, considering monthly premiums, yearly deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, and co-pays for both primary care and specialist visits.

Users who wish to purchase can then seamlessly click on their preferred plan to sign up — with the confidence that they got the best plan for their needs, including their budget.

The timing of this innovative approach to health insurance selection couldn’t be more crucial. Recent data reveals that a significant portion of Americans, 8.4% or 27.6 million, still lack health insurance. Furthermore, 11% experience coverage gaps and a staggering 23% are classified as underinsured, facing challenges in accessing affordable healthcare.

Health insurance literacy also remains a concern, with over 50% of adults struggling to comprehend key terms such as co-payments, deductibles, and coinsurance.

This health plan matchmaker is a tool to bridge the gap in health insurance literacy and empower individuals to make informed decisions. Through its intuitive interface and user-friendly guidance, The Big Plan aims to provide a deeper understanding of health insurance, enabling users to align their choices with their medical needs and financial capabilities.

The Big Plan is currently available to millions of Americans in most states, including Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The Big Plan encourages individuals to explore a more informed and educated approach to health coverage selection.

To learn more about navigating health insurance with confidence at The Big Plan, visit TheBigPlan.com.

2023-11-17T09:01:01

(BPT) – From appetizers to desserts, the flavor and versatility of California walnuts can elevate any dish. Planning a menu for small or large groups can be a lot of work. Depending on the gathering or occasion, you may need to plan snacks, appetizers and a meal that many people will enjoy. Fortunately, you can set the stage for success and satisfy a variety of palates with California walnuts.

Tips for entertaining with California walnuts

Walnuts are appealing and adaptable, with surprising versatility that makes them the unsung hero of the kitchen. They’re well known for the buttery richness and pleasing texture they add to many traditional dishes, baked goods, garnish or topping and as a simple, beloved entertaining snack. This is particularly handy when you’re entertaining. This versatile plant food, packed with a powerhouse of important nutrients, is a smart option for you, your friends and family.

Want to up the ante at your next event? Here are some additional ways to use walnuts when entertaining that you may not have thought of before:

Veggie trays: Elevate your veggie tray or charcuterie board by making walnut hummus, pesto and Muhammara, a roasted red pepper dip.

Meat alternatives: Walnuts can easily be combined in a food processor with your favorite combination of spices to create plant-based walnut meat that tastes great and is satisfying. Walnut meat is a tasty and a filling meat alternative that can be used in tacos, pasta sauces, on pizza, in stuffed peppers and more.

Delicious snacks: Sweet and spiced walnuts are a delicious snack or entertaining staple, and can be easily packaged into a lovely host gift if you’re attending a party.

Dairy-free treats: Walnuts can be used in new and innovative ways — like Vanilla Walnut Whipped Cream, a dairy-free treat topping for anything from hot chocolate to pies and cakes.

Recipe: Vanilla Walnut Whipped Cream

This light and airy walnut-based whipped cream flavored with honey and vanilla can be served with dessert, over berries and more. Visit walnuts.org for flavor variations. Makes 14 servings.

Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups California walnuts, divided
1 cup water
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 to 2 teaspoons honey, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Directions:
Puree 2 cups walnuts and water in a blender for 2 minutes or until very light and fluffy.
Add powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon honey, vanilla and salt and blend for 30 seconds. Add the remaining teaspoon honey if you prefer a sweeter taste.
To achieve a thicker whipped cream, add the remaining 1/2 cup walnuts and puree until light and fluffy.
Store tightly covered in the refrigerator until ready to use. May be prepared two days ahead.

Why walnuts? Bountiful benefits

Being high in omega-3 ALA (2.5 g/oz.), walnuts are a great addition to any snack or meal. You can feel good that more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the U.S. are from the fertile soils of California’s Central Valley.

Entertaining tips and more recipes

California Walnuts is spotlighting a custom recipe collection that showcases even more ways you can use walnuts. Whether you purchased a one- or three-pound bag, or any size in between, California Walnuts has tasty, easy recipes that will ensure your walnuts go to delicious use — regardless of the occasion. For more entertaining ideas and recipe inspiration, visit Walnuts.org.

Bonus tip: Have leftover walnuts? For optimal freshness, keep them cold in the refrigerator or freezer.

2023-11-16T13:45:00

(BPT) – It’s that time of year when many Americans review their health care benefits to see if they have the coverage they need during open enrollment. If you don’t enjoy this annual exercise, a new report by Deloitte’s Center for Health Solutions suggests there’s good reason to take a closer look at your benefits this year — your employer has the potential to help you live a longer and healthier life.

Even though the average life span is 77.9 years, Deloitte calculated that Americans are living just 65.9 years (or 85% of their years) in good health. According to the analysis, all Americans could potentially live up to 95% of their years in good health and live to be nearly 90 years old if employers think beyond their traditional health insurance offerings. This means that employers should reconsider a one-size-fits-all approach and think about more digital, virtual and gaming techniques to encourage healthy behaviors.

Not-so-fringe benefits

Deloitte found that businesses across industries are providing employees with a variety of well-being benefits. Beyond the health implications, employers tend to recognize there is a competitive advantage to these benefits to attract talent, and potentially improve productivity which can impact their organization’s success. Deloitte suggests that employers are uniquely positioned to take the lead on influencing health improvements more broadly, beyond traditional health care benefits impacting health today and into retirement. How?

Three ways employers can support your health and well-being

• Wearables and digital tools: According to the CDC, there is evidence that lifestyle modifications like following a healthy diet, creating social connections, engaging in appropriate exercise, managing stress and reducing smoking can dramatically change, or even reverse, the progression to diabetes, heart disease and certain other conditions. Some organizations provide employees with wearables and digital tools to help enable changes, especially when they’re paired with coaching and nudging, according to a report by Brookings.
• Telehealth: Virtual visits or telehealth is another approach for improving well-being. As reported by the National Institutes of Health, the pandemic expanded this option, enabling doctor visits and mental health services in virtual settings that can help improve access to care. Some studies found that access for underserved populations has improved as a result of virtual health.
• Early screenings and services: Offering early screenings and services that address mental health and social isolation can contribute to healthier aging. Deloitte suggests providing employees with health-literacy tools, educational materials and support to help address challenges that can influence people’s health, such as access to affordable housing, financial literacy, isolation, safety, clean air and water, and healthy food.

Take advantage of benefits and resources you’re offered

Unfortunately, 68% of workers surveyed by Deloitte say they do not use the full value of the well-being resources their organizations offer because accessing programs is either too time-consuming, confusing or cumbersome.

“Exploring, understanding and asking questions about your benefits can help you live a longer and healthier life,” said Jay Bhatt, D.O., MPH, MPA, managing director of the Center for Health Solutions and Health Equity Institute, Deloitte Services LP. “Employers that lean in with their workforce to help them make the most of their benefits, help ensure that it isn’t one size fits all, and support behavior change may result in their employees living longer and healthier while also having an impact on reducing rising health care costs.”

To learn more about Deloitte’s findings, read the full report titled, How employers can spark a movement to help us live longer and healthier lives.

2023-11-16T10:01:00

(BPT) – WWE is famously known for its high-energy matches and larger-than-life Superstars. The organization has an incredible talent for entertaining and captivating audiences of all ages around the world. The company also has a long history of giving back and providing special experiences for deserving community members.

One partnership that WWE is incredibly proud of is its longstanding connection to Make-A-Wish. Over the past 40 years, WWE has granted more than 6,000 wishes to children with critical illnesses and, more importantly, created hope and renewed energy for wish kids and their families.

Wrestling with a purpose

This past April, to celebrate WWE and Make-A-Wish’s 40 years of partnership, the sports entertainment organization invited 20 wish kids and their families to Hollywood to fulfill their wishes to attend WrestleMania 39, WWE’s annual pop culture extravaganza.

WWE Superstar John Cena, the all-time most requested celebrity wish granter, invited wish kids to join him onstage for his entrance before his match at the event. They were greeted by the cheering and applause of more than 86,000 fans at SoFi Stadium. This is the first time that wish kids were incorporated into WrestleMania and hopefully, it won’t be the last.

During their time at WrestleMania, the kids and their families had a special opportunity for private meet-and-greets with WWE Superstars Cody Rhodes, Liv Morgan, Finn Bálor, Bayley, Carmella and Omos. Best of all, the kids were inducted into the Circle of Champions, WWE’s exclusive group that celebrates and honors the perseverance and toughness of wish kids.

“WWE understands that the wishes they help to grant can provide children with critical illnesses with the strength and resilience they need to fight whatever challenges come their way,” said Leslie Motter, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. “This year’s WrestleMania is the latest example of the types of life-changing experiences that WWE provides to wish kids and their families on a regular basis.”

More than just one day

While WrestleMania 39 was a landmark wish for several kids this year, WWE and its Superstars continue to grant wishes year-round. For example, WWE and John Cena granted wishes each week during the Legend’s return to SmackDown. Also, in the lead-up to World Wish Day, WWE invited former wish recipients and their families to attend Monday Night RAW in Chicago.

WWE’s philanthropy isn’t limited to the U.S. An organization that touches every corner of the world with its philanthropic actions, working with partners like Make-A-Wish, WWE is making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and communities at home and abroad.

Through its partnership with Make-A-Wish, the organization has granted numerous international wishes in the UK, India and Saudi Arabia, among others. WWE has also hosted memorable wish-granting events at iconic venues like Universal Studios Hollywood and the Natural History Museum in London.

To learn more about WWE’s ongoing partnership with Make-A-Wish, visit Corporate.WWE.com/Impact.

2023-11-16T09:01:00

(BPT) – Some people just know how to live. One great example is Mike Hugo, who learns from stumbles and turns them into victory — tackling anything he wants to do with vigor and perseverance. This was clear as early as age 7, when the first pig he entered into a county fair was disqualified as overweight. Unfazed, Mike learned everything he could about pigs, even taking one on daily two-mile walks. The result? He won grand champion the next year — and the next nine.

This can-do attitude helped Mike become an all-state football player (even playing a season for a semi-pro Australian gridiron team) and earn his engineering degree by age 20. From obtaining patents for product design improvements at his very first job to doing marathons and Ironman competitions, Mike greets life with energy and enthusiasm, an attitude he hopes to impart to his two daughters, Bridget and Brooke.

A daunting setback

Mike was training for his 12th Ironman when everything changed. A day after swimming over two miles in the ocean, he had a seizure while driving and crashed his car. Waking in the hospital with a serious back injury was bad enough, but that was the least of his concerns.

In his work as a sales district manager for a medical device company, Mike had seen his fair share of MRIs. One glance at his scans was enough to scare him: He had a brain tumor the size of a tangerine.

Mike was diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM), and surgeons removed as much of Mike’s tumor as they could without impairing his cognition. But GBM can be very aggressive — within three weeks his tumor had grown back to about one-third its previous size.

What is glioblastoma (GBM)?

Glioblastoma is the most aggressive type of malignant primary brain tumor. Early detection is nearly impossible, and the condition can be challenging to control, typically causing progressive neurological symptoms over time. The survival rate for newly diagnosed patients is just 5-10%.

Facing his diagnosis with action

Not surprisingly, Mike and his wife Vanessa immediately started exploring treatments, while making the most of their time together. Vanessa is a clinical researcher in cranial and spinal technologies, so her research and their network of connections in the neurology field helped uncover new treatment options.

This is how they learned about Optune Gio, a wearable, portable, FDA-approved device indicated to treat GBM in adult patients 22 years of age or older. The device works by creating Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields), which are alternating electric fields delivered at a unique frequency that allows it to selectively disrupt GBM cell division. TTFields therapy attacks GBM cells where they’re vulnerable, interfering with mitosis to disrupt cancer cell division, and ultimately can destroy cancer cells. When used together with standard of care chemotherapy in a large clinical study, this innovative treatment has been shown to improve survival outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed GBM, without adding systemic toxicities.

Living well and staying present, no matter what

Just as Mike faces all setbacks throughout his life with determination, this situation is no different. Looking toward an uncertain future, Mike remains steadfast in his goal to be present for his girls and keep planning for the future. He’s created videos and letters for his daughters to offer guidance during life’s milestones and rites of passage.

“As a father, I’m thinking constantly about, with the time I have left, how do I take care of them?” Mike said. “It’s very hard to imagine every scenario where my kids might turn to me for advice in the next 30 years, but that’s what I’m trying to do.”

Mike took voice lessons to help him sing country star Tim McGraw’s song “My Little Girl” for a video for his girls. But as usual, his dream was bigger. He wanted McGraw to join him for a duet and reached out via social media — and the message went viral. McGraw saw it and arranged for Mike’s family to fly to Nashville. As the father of three daughters, McGraw also knows what it’s like to lose a parent to glioblastoma. His dad, legendary baseball player Tug McGraw, died of GBM in 2004.

With cameras rolling and McGraw beside him, Mike delivered messages to his young daughters for their future wedding days before segueing into the duet, then danced with each of his girls to “My Little Girl” on the stage at the Grand Ole Opry.

For anyone facing obstacles, Mike offers the following advice from John D. Rockefeller: “I do not think that there is any other quality so essential to success of any kind as the quality of perseverance. It overcomes almost everything, even nature.”

Where to find more information about Optune Gio and GBM

If you or a loved one is affected by GBM, speak with your doctor to learn more about Optune Gio and how to incorporate this therapy into a treatment plan. Learn more at OptuneGio.com.

The most common side effects of Optune Gio when used together with chemotherapy to treat newly diagnosed GBM are low blood platelet count, nausea, constipation, vomiting, tiredness, scalp irritation from the device, headache, seizure, and depression. The most common side effects when using Optune Gio alone to treat recurrent GBM are scalp irritation (redness and itchiness) and headache. Other side effects are malaise, muscle twitching, fall and skin ulcers. For more information, please see Optune Gio Instructions for Use.

Optune Gio is not for everyone. Talk to your doctor if you have an implanted medical device (programmable shunt), skull defect (missing bone with no replacement), bullet fragment or a known sensitivity to conductive hydrogels. Do not use Optune Gio if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.