Category: Brandpoint Health

2023-09-06T15:31:01

(BPT) – Sponsored and developed by Pfizer

Vaccines have been an important tool in the fight against COVID-19. But it wasn’t just the traditional sort of vaccine that came to help — it was a different kind of vaccine made from messenger ribonucleic acid, or mRNA. While the vaccines for COVID-19 were the first to successfully use this technology, mRNA is not new. Scientists have been studying mRNA in medicine for decades, and this technology may serve as a valuable tool in the treatment toolbox in the coming years.

How Vaccines Work

To best appreciate how helpful mRNA technology can be in the fight against infection, it’s important to first understand how vaccines work. Ultimately, the goal is to build immunity — an immune response that helps protect us against disease. Vaccines build immunity by teaching our bodies how to fight off invading bacteria or viruses. Traditional vaccines do this by introducing a weakened form of the potential invader into the body, while mRNA vaccines make pieces of bacteria or viruses internally by taking advantage of how our cells work naturally. mRNA vaccines themselves do not contain any of the actual virus or bacteria.

Our cells are like a microscopic kitchen that cooks up an elaborate menu of thousands of different proteins, which form our entire bodies and help keep us alive. An mRNA vaccine delivers instructions that act like a special recipe, directing the kitchen to temporarily add your meal — or in this case, a small protein from part of the virus or bacteria — to the menu. The immune system then reacts to that new protein by creating a defense if and when the real invader comes along. mRNA vaccines do not alter a person’s DNA.

The Potential of mRNA

The instructions found in the mRNA vaccine’s recipe can be edited, meaning mRNA can be changed to help defend against different diseases. When creating a vaccine, the mRNA platform may offer advantages over traditional methods, including flexibility, speed, and timing.

• Flexibility: Since you only need the genetic instructions to make an mRNA vaccine, it’s possible to swiftly adapt to match a new virus or mutation. As new strains of viruses like SARS-CoV-2 or seasonal flu continue to emerge or shift, scientists can potentially “plug” a new code into an mRNA vaccine to rapidly begin testing and development.¹

• Speed: When it comes to preventing life-threatening illness, speed is of the essence. Some traditional vaccines can take more than six months to make (or manufacture), because they have to be grown in living cells. That’s why the strains for flu vaccines rolled out each September are chosen in February. But mRNA vaccines can be made much more quickly, while maintaining the rigorous safety testing that comes with all new vaccines. In fact, it’s estimated that mRNA vaccines can be manufactured 10 times faster than traditional vaccines made from live, weakened, or killed viruses.²

• Timing: By requiring shorter manufacturing and development leads, the mRNA code may also better match the virus strain that you’re most likely to encounter in your everyday life, such as the particular strains of seasonal flu circulating in a given year. This could improve how well the vaccine works, or how effective it is.^3,4 Where traditional vaccines require a lead time of six months or more to mass produce, mRNA vaccines can be manufactured in as little as three months from the time the new strain is selected.

Ultimately, mRNA vaccine technology may help us better respond to future epidemics and pandemics as well as now-widespread diseases that may require regular strain updates, like the seasonal flu and COVID-19. Scientists and doctors around the world are excited about the potential future applications of mRNA.

2023-09-06T08:01:00

(BPT) – This content is sponsored by Sanofi

My name is David and I am a retiree living in Minneapolis after working 30+ years in sales.

Retirement has left me with what feels like a lot of time for my hobbies, like golf and traveling, and spending time with my wife, daughter, and our golden retriever.

I know this time is valuable, because I have a history of serious heart conditions among men in my family. Because of my family history, taking an active role in my health, including exercise and fitness, and eating healthy have always been a part of my life.

I’ve always done what I could to keep Mother Nature at bay, but about 14 years ago, my family history caught up with me.

It began with feeling winded and fatigued while on the golf course. I finished the front nine (in retrospect, not a good decision) and when I went home my wife took my pulse and it was absolutely racing.

Shortly after that I found myself in the ER, and an electrocardiogram (EKG) and other tests showed that I was in atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib. It’s estimated more than 5 million people in the U.S. have AFib, and I was formally diagnosed with paroxysmal AFib since my heart rhythm returned to normal on its own within a few hours.

AFib happens when there is a disruption in your heart’s normal rhythm and the symptoms of AFib itself can be highly debilitating, and if left untreated, can lead to serious and even life-threatening complications.

For me, when my heart came out of normal rhythm during an AFib episode, I felt discomfort and tightness in my chest, accompanied by extreme fatigue and weakness. I would find myself huffing and puffing and totally worn out. In some instances, my AFib episodes left me so weak I didn’t think I could get myself off the couch and to the hospital.

It can be difficult to predict when an AFib episode may occur. Some common symptoms of AFib include racing, fluttering or irregular heartbeat. It’s important to call your doctor right away to discuss how you’re feeling.

Unfortunately, I experienced additional AFib episodes after that first ER visit. Given my AFib episodes were becoming more frequent and lasting longer, I finally committed to finding a cardiologist who could help me manage my condition.

I went to my cardiologist ready to listen, but also brought questions that I wanted answers to as well.

After listening to my concerns and discussing potential side effects, my doctor suggested an antiarrhythmic medicine to help control the rhythm of my heart, called MULTAQ (dronedarone), a prescription medicine used to lower the chance that you will need to go into the hospital for an irregular heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation (AFib). It is meant for people with certain types of AFib (paroxysmal or persistent AFib) who have had AFib in the past but are now in normal rhythm. To learn more about MULTAQ, including the risk of serious side effects, visit Multaq.com.

Ever since then I’ve committed to managing my paroxysmal Afib with MULTAQ.

For people diagnosed with paroxysmal or persistent AFib – please understand that it is a serious condition that can progress over time if left untreated. Taking an active role in managing your AFib may reduce your risk of future AFib episodes. It is important to take action – and for me – the easiest step was scheduling an appointment with a cardiologist and listening to my options.

It’s also important to have a support system in place. My wife in particular is helpful with keeping me on track with doctor’s appointments and reminding me to take my MULTAQ as prescribed – if she still wants me to stick around then I guess I’ve done something right!

Every patient’s experience is unique and results may vary. Remember, your doctor is your best source of information and be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have.

Important Safety Information

What is the most important safety information I should know about MULTAQ?

Do not take MULTAQ if you have symptoms of heart failure that recently worsened and you were hospitalized, or if you have severe heart failure. MULTAQ doubles your risk of dying if you have these conditions.

Do not take MULTAQ if you have a type of atrial fibrillation (AFIB) called permanent AFIB. You should not take MULTAQ if you are in AFIB and your doctor is not planning to change you back into normal rhythm. People with permanent AFIB who take MULTAQ have a higher risk of death, stroke, and needing to be treated in a hospital for heart failure.

MULTAQ may cause liver problems, including life-threatening liver failure. Call your doctor right away if you are taking MULTAQ and develop any of these signs and symptoms of liver problems: loss of appetite; nausea; vomiting; fever; feeling unwell; unusual tiredness; itching; yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes; unusual darkening of the urine; right upper stomach area pain or discomfort.

When should I call the doctor?

Call your doctor right away if you’re taking MULTAQ and have any signs and symptoms of heart failure. These may include shortness of breath or wheezing at rest; wheezing, chest tightness, or coughing up frothy sputum at rest, nighttime, or after minor exercise; trouble sleeping or waking up at night or using more pillows to prop yourself at night because of breathing problems; weight gain; or foot or leg swelling.

Call your doctor right away if you notice that your heartbeat or pulse is irregular. This is a sign that you are in AFIB.

Call your doctor if you develop shortness of breath or a dry cough during treatment with MULTAQ.

Call your doctor if you experience an allergic reaction, such as itchy rash, low blood pressure, or rapid swelling of the throat or skin, especially around the lips or eyes.

Who else shouldn’t take MULTAQ?

You should not take MULTAQ if you are allergic to dronedarone or any of the other ingredients in MULTAQ.

You should not take MULTAQ if you have severe liver problems or if you had liver or lung problems after using amiodarone.

You should not take MULTAQ if you have a certain type of heart problem called heart block, and you do not have an implanted pacemaker.

You should not take MULTAQ if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or plan to become pregnant as it is not known if it may pass to or harm your baby. Women who may become pregnant should use effective birth control while taking MULTAQ. Talk to your doctor about the best birth control methods for you.

Are there any medications I should avoid while taking MULTAQ?

MULTAQ can interact with certain medications. Do not use the following medications with MULTAQ:

• Nefazodone
• Ketoconazole
• Voriconazole
• Clarithromycin
• Ritonavir
• Itraconazole
• Telithromycin
• Cyclosporine

Are there other medicines that would be harmful when taken with MULTAQ?

The following medicines can lead to a dangerous abnormal heart rhythm if taken with MULTAQ:

• Phenothiazines
• Tricyclic antidepressant
• Certain antibiotics
• Certain medicines used to treat an abnormal heart rhythm or fast heartbeat

What are possible serious side effects from taking MULTAQ?

MULTAQ may cause serious side effects including slowed heartbeat, inflammation of the lungs (including scarring and thickening), low potassium and magnesium levels in your blood, and changes in kidney function blood tests.

What are the most common side effects?

The most common side effects when taking MULTAQ include stomach problems such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach area pain, and indigestion; feeling tired and weak; skin problems such as redness, rash, and itching. Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Are there other things I should avoid while taking MULTAQ?

Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking MULTAQ, as this can increase the likelihood that you will have a side effect of MULTAQ.

What else should I tell my doctor?

Tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies (including St. John’s Wort) you take to help avoid serious drug interactions.

Is it OK to take a diuretic (“water pill”) while on MULTAQ?

Your potassium levels should be within the normal range prior to and while taking MULTAQ. Tell your doctor about any diuretic medications (“water pills”) you are taking as some can lower the level of potassium or magnesium in your blood.

Will I need any tests while I’m on MULTAQ?

Your doctor will monitor your heart rhythm regularly to make sure your heartbeat keeps a normal rhythm. Your doctor may perform certain tests, such as heart exams and blood tests, while you’re taking MULTAQ.

Click here for full Prescribing Information, including SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS.

Click here for the MULTAQ Medication Guide (English).

Click here to learn more about Sanofi’s commitment to fighting counterfeit drugs.

Remember, your doctor is the single best source of information regarding your health. Please consult your doctor if you have any questions about your health or your medicine.

If you are a patient experiencing problems with a Sanofi U.S. product, please contact Sanofi U.S. at 1-800-633-1610.

The health information contained herein is provided for general educational purposes only. Your healthcare professional is the single best source of information regarding your health. Please consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions about your health or treatment.

2023-09-06T06:01:00

(BPT) – Most men living with prostate cancer are familiar with their PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, level. Often, they have been getting PSA tests as part of regular health screenings since even before their diagnosis.¹

Now, there is another important biomarker to know about: PSMA, meaning prostate-specific membrane antigen. PSMA is a biomarker that is located on the outside of prostate cancer cells and found in more than 80% of men with prostate cancer. Both PSA and PSMA can help doctors diagnose and track the progression of prostate cancer.^2,3

Unlike PSA tests, doctors use PET (positron emission tomography) scans to test for PSMA. The PET scan works by using a tracer that attaches to PSMA and enables your doctor to detect precisely where PSMA-positive tumors reside in the body. Importantly, a PSMA scan can also provide valuable information for evaluating available treatment options with your doctor.^2,4

When prostate cancer advances and spreads to other parts of the body, and remains unresponsive to hormone treatment, it is called metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).⁵ PLUVICTO^® (lutetium Lu 177 vipivotide tetraxetan) is a type of precision medicine that targets PSMA-positive cancer cells. PLUVICTO attaches to PSMA and releases radiation treatment that can damage and kill PSMA-positive tumor cells.⁶

PLUVICTO is a radioligand therapy (RLT) and the first and only RLT approved for the treatment of adult patients with PSMA-positive mCRPC who have already been treated with other anticancer treatments (ie, androgen receptor pathway inhibition and taxane-based chemotherapy).⁶

To learn more about PLUVICTO, go to www.Pluvicto.com and see below for Important Safety Information.

What is PLUVICTO^® (lutetium Lu 177 vipivotide tetraxetan)?

PLUVICTO is a radiopharmaceutical used to treat adults with an advanced cancer called prostate-specific membrane antigen­–­positive metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (PSMA-positive mCRPC) that:

• has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic), and
• has already been treated with other anticancer treatments

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

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

Use of PLUVICTO involves exposure to radioactivity. Long-term, accruing radiation exposure is associated with an increased risk for cancer.

To minimize radiation exposure to others following administration of PLUVICTO, limit close contact (less than 3 feet) with household contacts for 2 days or with children and pregnant women for 7 days, refrain from sexual activity for 7 days, and sleep in a separate bedroom from household contacts for 3 days, from children for 7 days, or from pregnant women for 15 days.

PLUVICTO may cause serious side effects, including:

• Low level of blood cell counts. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any new or worsening symptoms, including:
  • Tiredness or weakness
  • Pale skin
  • Shortness of breath
  • Bleeding or bruising more easily than normal or difficulty stopping bleeding
  • Frequent infections with signs such as fever, chills, sore throat, or mouth ulcers

• Kidney problems. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any new or worsening symptoms, including passing urine less often or passing much smaller amounts of urine than usual

Before you receive PLUVICTO, tell your doctor if any of these apply to you:

• You have low level of blood cell counts (hemoglobin, white blood cell count, absolute neutrophil count, platelet count)
• You have or have had tiredness, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, bleeding or bruising more easily than normal or difficulty stopping bleeding, or frequent infections with signs such as fever, chills, sore throat, or mouth ulcers (possible signs of myelosuppression)
• You have or have had kidney problems
• You have or have had any other type of cancer or treatment for cancer, as PLUVICTO contributes to your long-term cumulative radiation exposure
• You are sexually active as:
  • All radiopharmaceuticals, including PLUVICTO, have the potential to cause harm to an unborn baby
  • You should use effective contraception for intercourse during treatment with PLUVICTO and for 14 weeks after your last dose
  • PLUVICTO may cause temporary or permanent infertility

Before administration of PLUVICTO, you should drink plenty of water in order to urinate as often as possible during the first hours after administration.

The most common side effects of PLUVICTO include:

• Tiredness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Low red blood cell count
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in bowel movements (constipation or diarrhea)
• Vomiting
• Low blood platelet count
• Urinary tract infection
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain

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

Please see full Prescribing Information.

References:

1. National Cancer Institute. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. Accessed July 25, 2023. https://www.cancer.gov/types/prostate/psa-fact-sheet
2. Hope TA, Aggarwal R, Chee B, et al. Impact of ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11 PET on management in patients with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer. J Nucl Med. 2017;58(12):1956-1961.
3. Sonni I, Eiber M, Fendler WP, et al. Impact of ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT on staging and management of prostate cancer patients in various clinical settings: a prospective single-center study. J Nucl Med. 2020;61:1153-1160. doi:10.2967/jnumed.119.237602
4. Hofman MS, Lawrentschuk N, Francis RJ, et al. Prostate-specific membrane antigen PET-CT in patients with high-risk prostate cancer before curative-intent surgery or radiotherapy (proPSMA): a prospective randomised, multi-centre study. Lancet. 2020;395:1208-1216.
5. Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. Radiopharmaceutical therapy and prostate cancer. Accessed July 24, 2023. https://www.snmmi.org/AboutSNMMI/Content.aspx?ItemNumber=12772
6. Pluvicto. Prescribing information. Advanced Accelerator Applications USA, Inc.

2023-09-05T06:01:00

(BPT) – If you’ve been thinking about making improvements to your home and dreaming of the possibilities, you may be imagining expensive renovations or a complete design overhaul. But the truth is, you can start with smaller projects that offer a big impact. For example, one simple but effective and budget-friendly project that’s frequently overlooked is updating your window coverings. This easy upgrade can have a significant effect on the aesthetics, energy savings and even safety of your living spaces.

Here are four compelling reasons why you should consider updating your window coverings first.

1. Enhanced aesthetics. Window coverings serve as both functional and decorative elements, and they are highly visible both indoors and from the outside. You’ve probably already observed how outdated or worn-out curtains, blinds or shades can bring down the overall appearance of a room. By updating your window treatments, you can instantly infuse a fresh look that will complement your interior design style.

The good news is that your window treatments don’t have to match the walls or trim. You can choose contrasting colors from your existing walls or trim, or select a neutral color like off-white that will complement any decor. Especially if you’re envisioning making renovations like painting or wallpapering a room fairly soon, you’ll know that more neutral colors will likely go with any interior design choices you make in the future.

2. Improved energy efficiency. With energy costs on the rise, it’s important to consider how your window coverings may be affecting the energy efficiency of your home.

One smart move is upgrading to energy-efficient window attachment products, such as those certified by the Attachments Energy Rating Council (AERC) for improved energy savings. The products will help with regulating your home’s indoor temperatures, as well as improving comfort for you and your family — while also helping to reduce your utility bills.

3. Ease of use. With today’s advanced technology, you can get even more out of your window coverings. Motorized and automated options with remote or smart home integration make adjusting your window treatments easier than ever, and you can even make adjustments right from your smartphone. As an added bonus, you can even close your blinds remotely while you’re away from your home, for additional security and privacy.

4. Safety improvements. Kids in the home? If you have corded window coverings, you may not realize that you have what the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) calls one of the “top hidden hazards in the home” as they may pose a strangulation risk to infants and young children. Some homes may also have older window coverings which may not be recognized as a danger by new homeowners. It’s important to take notice of the window coverings wherever children live or visit, and make necessary safety updates.

It’s easier than ever to “go cordless.” Just look for products marked with the Best For Kids™ logo. Products with this logo either have no cords, no operating cords or inner cords that are not accessible and are also unable to create a hazardous loop. You can find Best for Kids™ labeled products at all major U.S. retailers. Learn more at WindowCoverings.org/best-for-kids.

As you can see, window coverings can be an important component of your home’s overall look, as well as contributing to its energy efficiency, comfort, safety and security. Refreshing your window coverings can be a straightforward, quick and impactful first step in renovating any of the rooms in your home.

2023-09-05T06:01:00

(BPT) – With heat waves, wildfires, droughts, hurricanes and more breaking records seemingly year after year — it’s impossible to ignore the impact of severe weather and natural disasters across the United States. Without proper planning and preparation, you may be leaving yourself, your family and your property susceptible to damage or harm.

Consider the massive damage storms can cause to communities. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported more than $165 billion in damages from weather-related disasters in 2022 alone, a $20 billion increase from the 2021 estimates.

The National Fire Protection Association also reported that roughly 343,100 home fires occur per year, resulting in $7.6 billion in total property damage — most often started by simple everyday activities like cooking.

Knowing homes can be vulnerable to weather incidents and other accidents, it’s more important than ever to plan and invest in dependable solutions that can help keep your family and property safe.

In recognition of National Preparedness Month this September, The Master Lock Company, a trusted name in security for over 100 years, is spotlighting common mistakes people make when it comes to home emergency planning to help provide peace of mind and safeguard everything worth protecting.

Mistake #1: Misunderstanding disaster risk in your area

Different types of severe weather require different preparation, making it imperative to identify which disasters your community is most at-risk for and plan accordingly. Some weather patterns have also changed over the years, meaning you may be vulnerable to new climate events you haven’t considered in the past. A little research can go a long way when it comes to the safety of you and your home.

Mistake #2: Not having a family fire plan

Be fire smart by verifying your home contains the right number of smoke alarms and make sure to check them annually. Everyone in the household should rehearse your fire escape plan at least once to get familiar with the sound of the alarm, exit routes from each room and the agreed-upon family meeting spot, located outside the home at a safe distance.

Mistake #3: Forgetting to safely store important documents and valuables

When evacuating during a fire or other immediate emergency, every second counts and no time should be wasted grabbing items like passports, birth certificates, jewelry or family mementos. By investing in a dependable, high-quality safe that can withstand fire and water damage, such as the SentrySafe Next Generation Fire Safe, you can leave with peace of mind that your valuables are safe and sound. However, if your community is prone to more gradual disasters like wildfires that are forecasted days in advance and allow time for evacuation, consider the SentrySafe Fire Bag for portable fire protection. Designed to hold small items like passports, birth certificates and extra cash, the fire bag provides lightweight, convenient fire-resistant storage so you can easily grab your valuables and go.

Mistake #4: Ignoring storm warnings

If you know a storm is coming, don’t make the mistake of ignoring the alert until your area is affected. Store lawn furniture, pots and other loose items in a secure location. Close and lock windows and shutters. For disasters like hurricanes that are monitored in advance, check if nearby trees should be trimmed to prevent property damage and reduce post-storm debris. Storm warnings also present an opportunity to plan whether it’s safer to stay home or evacuate, and gather necessary items as needed.

Mistake #5: Not preparing an emergency “go kit” ahead of time

Being proactive is essential when preparing for unexpected emergencies, and the earlier you can prepare, the better. Though taking initiative to gather necessities before storm seasons begin is ideal, there are also situations when local officials provide advance notice in the days leading up to severe weather like hurricanes. Either way, have an emergency “go kit” in case you need to evacuate your home in a hurry. This “go kit” should contain medical supplies, food, water and other essentials to ensure your household’s basic needs are met.

Mistake #6: Overlooking physical home security

Some severe weather may require you to evacuate your home at the drop of a hat. Convenient, seamless security solutions like the Master Lock Bluetooth^® Portable Lock Box manages access even if you’re not there, allowing you to let in safety personnel and protect your property from unwanted visitors. Simply use your smartphone to manage your lock with the Master Lock Vault Home iOS and Android apps.

No matter the crisis, you can depend on The Master Lock Company for durable, reliable solutions to protect the people and the belongings that mean the most to you. For more information, visit insights.masterlock.com.

2023-08-31T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Merck

Did you know that coughing is one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor’s office? Dr. Warner Carr, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, sees hundreds of patients each year with respiratory conditions, including chronic cough, a cough lasting longer than eight weeks that affects approximately 12 million adults in the U.S.

People with chronic cough commonly cough in “bouts” they cannot control, and usually feel a strong urge to cough or a tickle in their throat before a coughing bout starts. Chronic cough typically affects women in their 50s, but both women and men can have the condition.

“In my experience, helping people with chronic cough is both rewarding and at times, frustrating. It’s rewarding when I hear that I’ve helped validate the condition and experiences of my patients, but frustrating because I know the long journey some patients are on before they receive a diagnosis,” Dr. Carr says.

Chronic cough can have a physical, social and emotional impact on those affected, as many people may feel embarrassed or frustrated about their cough in social settings. In fact, people living with the condition have told Dr. Carr that it can interrupt daily activities, like simply talking.

Some of his patients have also expressed that people don’t understand the condition and have even told them to “just stop coughing.” Dr. Carr explains, “It’s important that there’s increased awareness around chronic cough so people understand it’s a real medical condition and that those with chronic cough can’t control their coughing.”

When asked for advice, Dr. Carr emphasizes the importance of people speaking with their health care provider about their cough symptoms, even if they’ve grown used to coughing. “I definitely understand their frustration and sympathize with what they are going through. Managing their expectations and instilling hope in my patients is also important because they are eager for answers.”

To help you have a productive conversation with your health care provider about your cough and its frequency, download CoughTracker, a free and easy-to-use, healthy living app that helps track and record the number of times you cough. When used daily, the app can provide you with details about potential patterns and possible triggers of your cough, which you may not have noticed before.

To download CoughTracker and hear more from Dr. Carr about chronic cough, visit TheCoughChronicles.com.

CoughTracker, powered by Hyfe with funding and support by Merck & Co., Inc., should not be used to diagnose or treat any health conditions.

2023-08-30T13:01:01

(BPT) – Kids and teenagers nationwide are starting a new school year, which offers parents a chance to evaluate the ways they can support and encourage their children to help them succeed. Parents play an active role in their child’s education, especially as it pertains to subjects that have increased importance within a student’s curriculum.

In recent years, there has been an emphasis among science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education, as it provides students with hands-on learning that can nurture their problem-solving skills. Moreover, science specifically offers opportunities for children to explore the world around them, and it’s important for parents to know how to drive passion and curiosity for science in this next generation.

For easy ways to inspire your children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for science and nature, educator and international STEM advocate Saki Milton is offering tips for parents to consider as the new school year starts — whether they’re out-and-about or at home.

1. Let kids explore nature: Stimulating interest in science at an early age is key to encouraging their exploration and curiosity, and the natural world is a perfect starting point to engage kids in conversations about science.

“The next time your family is hanging out in the backyard, at the park or walking around the block, encourage kids to take in the vibrant ecosystem around them — which is full of living organisms that depend on each other for survival,” said Milton. “Nurture their interest by encouraging hands-on examination, fostering questions and showing how science connects to the real world.”

2. Elevate science outings: Take advantage of the wonder and exploration found in science centers, planetariums and natural history museums. Many venues offer interactive displays that can spark your child’s curiosity in science-related fields in a fun, hands-on and engaging way. Consider spending time at one of them for your next family outing. Some host birthday parties or other events for children that offer an unforgettable experience.

3. Connect curiosity to future careers in science: Science is a perfect outlet for naturally curious children, as there are so many things to experience and explore. Considering how much STEM-related careers are expected to grow in the next decade, their childhood curiosity for science and nature may lead to a career that could last a lifetime.

Is your child interested in space? Experience endless exploration through astronomy. Obsessed with animals? Maybe zoology is for them. How about insects? Believe it or not, there’s a perfect job out there for them, too. Expert entomologists study insects and use their research and knowledge to develop products that help protect families and their homes from insects and the diseases they may carry. The STEM™ line of products are scientifically engineered bug-killing insecticides and mosquito repellents that mix science with nature to help all of us keep those pesky bugs at bay. Their products, such as STEM™ Multi-Insect Killer Spray (Ants, Roaches, Flies) and STEM™ Mosquito Repellent Spray, are powered by plant-based active ingredients, such as lemongrass, geraniol or peppermint. With no added dye, fragrance or harsh chemical odors, they help fight bugs safely and effectively around people and pets, when used as directed.

4. Transform your kitchen into a science lab: Sparking love for science begins at home by transforming everyday moments into scientific adventures. One of the easiest ways is to run simple at-home experiments that can spark curiosity. You can become one of your child’s science teachers this year by finding a few experiments to do together.

“Start with mixing baking soda and white vinegar to introduce chemical reactions in a powerful way. Or show them how plants and trees ‘breathe’ through their leaves by submerging a leaf in water and watching bubbles appear,” Milton recommended. “Whichever experiment you choose, the point is that students love science when they actually do science.”

5. Show versus tell: It’s easiest for kids to learn and grasp new concepts when there’s a tangible outcome of their work. For instance, absorbing information about chemistry from a textbook is much harder than seeing chemistry happen in front of their eyes.

“I always encourage parents and their kids to try household chemistry projects, such as making homemade soap or lip balm, which are great ways to learn about how substances interact with one another, as well as math by mixing substances proportionately,” advised Milton.

6. Emphasize that science is for everyone: Last but most vital, remind your child that science is not a club for a select few. It’s for everyone! Using positive and reaffirming language around your child can help foster a sense of belongingness in science.

“Remind them that science is for everyone, and everyone is a scientist,” Milton added.

2023-08-22T07:01:00

(BPT) – The U.S. is at a critical point for public health. Vaccines have demonstrated value in maintaining the health of individuals and communities and are among the most effective and cost-effective preventive health interventions available.[1][2][3] But, too often, adults miss the opportunity for vaccination, despite being increasingly susceptible to immune decline and infectious diseases, and at greater risk of chronic conditions.[4]

The good news is that the latest Vaccine Track data suggest immunization rates are slowly starting to increase towards pre-pandemic levels. It’s a welcome improvement, but we can’t stop now. It’s important for adults in the U.S. to continue to prioritize vaccination to stay ahead of vaccine-preventable diseases.

This August, in honor of National Immunization Awareness Month, GSK is reinforcing the importance of staying on top of routine vaccinations all year long. While certain vaccines such as flu are administered during the fall and winter months when there’s a higher incidence of disease, other vaccines can be given year-round. Check out the Adult Immunization Calendar below to understand which “non-seasonal” recommended vaccines you can — and should — receive at different points throughout the year to help protect yourself against vaccine-preventable diseases. Stop in at your local pharmacy or make an appointment with your healthcare provider to keep yourself protected.

2023-08-21T10:01:01

(BPT) – Whether you work from home, in the office or spend a lot of time sitting while gaming, you know that the right chair can make all the difference in how you feel. The need for proper posture isn’t new, and many solutions have emerged over the years in an effort to address this need.

One solution that has gained a lot of traction in the last few years has been the standing desk. However, could it be that this and other solutions have come about because — to put it bluntly — office chairs as we know them aren’t working to help us sit correctly?

Not only can office chairs encourage poor posture, but they can also have long-term consequences. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it costs over $2,100 per person/per year to treat and manage chronic pain.

In addition to chronic pain, poor posture has also been linked to fatigue, injury, depression, poor vision, poor digestion, poor circulation, dysfunctional breathing and even shortened life expectancy. That’s why one startup company, Anthros, set out to design a chair that is not only comfortable, but also acts as a tool to support lifelong health and wellness.

The surprising origin of “the world’s most comfortable chair”

The Anthros team knows the importance of sitting properly and comfortably because they know that, for some, the wrong chair could have deadly consequences. The core members have spent decades working with wheelchair users — the most complex sitters on the planet — who either thrive or suffer according to the slightest modifications in their seating.

Using this, Anthros spent four years collaborating with world-class designers and engineers to develop a science-backed, evidence-based, research-focused design for an office chair. What started as an industry-changing concept is now a reality and one that the company believes has the power to improve users’ overall health and well-being.

“Existing chair manufacturers weren’t required to design products for people in which sitting can be a life-or-death issue,” said Steven Dufresne, Anthros founder and CEO.

A chair built for your shape

The Anthros chair was designed to fit the human body. For people in pain, this chair provides relief and also actively works to prevent pain before it starts. For office workers or gamers, the chair’s comfort and support make it ideal for maximum work productivity and gaming performance. And for those who value their health and wellness, this chair is an investment in their posture, performance and long-term well-being.

But what makes this chair different from other office chairs? It comes down to modifications that can meet each user’s unique needs.

First, the patented two-part back system is built to adapt to each individual’s body shape. The lower back is not lumbar support, which — despite the hype — is not the most effective way to support proper posture over long periods. Instead, learning from research in wheelchair seating, the lower back system supports the pelvis to prevent slouching and reduce lower back strain. The upper back system allows users to pull their shoulders back, preventing and alleviating neck and shoulder pain.

Next is the most important part of any chair: The seat. The company’s patented pressure-relief cutouts give the seat a cloud-like feel, providing sitting comfort with the lowest pressure cushion on the planet.

Finally, the chair does not recline. Instead, it tilts to reduce fatigue and provide a relaxed, resting position without compromising posture.

“We are selling improved health and performance, disguised as an office chair,” said Eric Murphy, Anthros founder and CMO. “Most chair companies say they do something. We aim to ‘prove’ we do it.”

Giving back to disabled community, the world’s most complex sitters

The Anthros Foundation is committed to giving back to the worldwide disabled community. There are countless countries where children and adults can’t access basic mobility equipment that would allow them to participate in fundamental activities of daily living. That’s why 100% of every dollar raised is used to host fundraising events and given to organizations that serve the global wheelchair community.

The foundation’s work doesn’t end with monetary donations. Anthros uses its expertise to help train others how to properly fit and provide this life-changing equipment and make a global impact.

Investing in your future

While the Anthros chair is an investment, it is built to be your last chair. Whether you’re an office worker, a gamer, a health-minded individual or seeking pain relief, investing in your chair is investing in yourself. To learn more, visit Anthros.com.

2023-08-21T10:01:01

(BPT) – Warning labels seem to be all around us — from hot drinks to hairdryers. But not all dangers come with them — like Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV. It’s a respiratory virus that can cause cold-like symptoms in some cases and potentially serious complications like hospitalization or death. Ask your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated.