Category: Brandpoint Health

2023-07-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – A smile is universal. No matter your age or geography, the act of smiling is positive, uplifting and unifying. Now, when you submit a photo of your smile, you can help an important nonprofit achieve a world record of the largest online photo album of smiling mouths.

Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused organization, is looking to make history by setting a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for the largest online photo album of smiling mouths. Once the record is set, Dentsply Sirona, the world’s largest manufacturer of dental products and technologies, and a Smile Train partner, will make a cash donation to Smile Train on World Smile Day^®.

Why is this effort so important?

Cleft lip and cleft palate are common birth conditions that occur when a baby’s lip or mouth do not form properly during pregnancy. Cleft-affected children have difficulty with eating, breathing, hearing and speaking. Clefts can even lead to malnutrition and death. Children with clefts are regularly harassed and bullied so much for the way they look and speak that they are often forced to drop out of school for their own safety.

Fortunately, there is a solution. Smile Train partners with local health care professionals around the world to provide free surgery and comprehensive cleft care, including nutrition, speech therapy, psychosocial support, dental services and more. Since its inception in 1999, Smile Train has supported more than 1.5 million free cleft surgeries worldwide.

“We’re passionate about smiles because we know what a serious business they are. As an organization that supports free cleft surgeries and comprehensive cleft care, including oral health care, we are embarking on a global effort to honor all smiles by setting a world record,” said Susannah Schaefer, president and CEO of Smile Train.

Your smile can make a difference

The GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title attempt is currently running until World Smile Day^® on October 6, 2023. In all, 20,000 images of smiling mouths need to be uploaded to the online photo album.

Samantha Hanratty, star of Showtime’s Yellowjackets and Smile Train Celebrity Ambassador, is sharing her smile in support of the campaign. “I’m proud to partner with Smile Train on this global, and hopefully record-setting, effort,” she said.

Anyone over the age of 13 can participate, and it’s simple to do by following these three easy steps:

1. Go to EverySmile.org.
2. Click on “I want to make history”
3. Take and upload a clear and well-lit photo of yourself smiling (just follow the guide provided)

The campaign launch coincides with National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month in July.

“This is another opportunity to raise awareness, support and celebrate people born with a facial difference. We strive to give every child with a cleft the opportunity to smile and lead a full and happy life by empowering medical professionals with training, funding and resources to provide free cleft surgery and comprehensive cleft care to children globally,” Schaefer added.

Will you help them reach their goal so they can help even more kids? The cash donation from Dentsply Sirona will support Smile Train’s vision of a world where every person has access to high-quality comprehensive cleft care and is able to live a full and healthy life.

“We are proud to help shine a light on the important work that Smile Train does to help children and all people with clefts around the world,” said Erania Brackett, senior vice president, Orthodontic Aligner Solutions & Customer Experience and head of Sustainability at Dentsply Sirona.

2023-07-17T06:01:00

(BPT) – A healthy head of hair starts with your scalp, so there’s nothing better for your beauty and wellness routine than focusing on good scalp care. When your scalp isn’t healthy, you may be just as likely to notice issues with your hair as your skin.

If you experience issues including itching, dandruff or irritation, dullness or breakage, you may want to talk to an expert. In the meantime, there are simple things you can do at home to refresh your routine and boost the condition of your scalp.

Here are five easy ways to help promote better scalp health.

1. Watch how you wash

Over-washing your hair can upset the balance of your scalp’s natural oils. Not everyone needs to wash their hair every day for the best results and appearance. Consider washing less frequently and try a clarifying shampoo. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends using a scalp exfoliant to help remove product buildup. While shampooing, don’t scrub or scratch your scalp — a gentle scalp massage can help loosen dirt without causing irritation.

Especially if you have sensitive skin, choose hair products without potential irritants like sulfates, allergens or silicones. The National Institutes of Health advises against products containing parabens or fragrances. Today’s options for hair products are numerous, so check the ingredients before buying. If any new product irritates your skin or scalp, stop using it.

2. Rinse thoroughly

Scalp care is the new self-care, and that can start with changing your shower head. To help rinse your hair and scalp better, the Waterpik^® HairWand Pulse Spa System provides a luxurious way to nurture your hair and body. Clinically shown to provide fast, effective rinsing, its pulsating comb-shape spray delivers a relaxing scalp massage that reaches down to the roots and is shown to help remove visible flakes, rejuvenate the scalp, and leave it feeling clean.

For a two-for-one scalp care and relaxing massage experience, the Waterpik HairWand Pulse Spa System has multiple spray settings and goes beyond helping you care for your scalp. Its PowerPulse Therapeutic Strength Massage also helps to soothe muscle tension, increase flexibility, and promote restful sleep. You can find the Waterpik HairWand Pulse Spa System in Chrome or Brushed Nickel online, at HomeDepot.com.

3. Protect from the sun

Don’t forget — your scalp is skin, too. Avoid pain and skin peeling from sunburn by wearing a hat when outside in the sun. The Cleveland Clinic also recommends using sunscreen to help protect your scalp from UV rays. Sunburn on your scalp is not only painful and irritating, but over time could even develop into something serious, like skin cancer. Fortunately, you can find sunscreen in a lightweight spray for use on your scalp.

4. Nourish hair and scalp from the inside

Just like the rest of your body, your scalp needs the right nutrients to be at its best. You may want to consider your skin and hair health when doing your meal planning to ensure that you get sufficient nutrition. According to the Mayo Clinic, the best nutrients for hair and skin health include proteins, omega 3s, vitamins A, E and D, plus healthy plant-based fats such as those found in olive oil, nuts and avocadoes.

5. Take steps to reduce your stress

Anytime you’re feeling stressed, this can affect any of your body’s systems, including your scalp and hair. Stress you experience can take the form of scalp acne, dandruff, oily or damaged hair and other conditions.

Explore ways to help reduce your stress levels for well-being that’s not just skin deep. Try mindfulness practices like deep breathing or meditation, yoga, walking, spending time in nature or taking breaks from electronic devices. Do something relaxing, like getting a massage, or consider a meditation app or class that teaches stress reduction techniques.

Your scalp is a crucial part of your body, and when it’s not healthy, you can quickly see it in how your skin and hair look and feel. Following these tips can help you create a new routine to help you maintain your best scalp health.

2023-07-14T08:01:00

Many so-called “risk factors” increase the chance that someone will have cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attacks and strokes and affects hundreds of millions of people, but one of the most common is high cholesterol — specifically the type known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad,” cholesterol. This type of cholesterol is dangerous because it collects inside blood vessels and hardens as plaque, making it difficult for blood to flow through arteries. When the plaque is irritated or inflamed, a blood clot can form in the blood vessel, depriving the brain and heart of oxygen, causing a heart attack or stroke.

An estimated 93 million American adults have a cholesterol level above the recommended limit. People most likely to have high cholesterol are those who smoke, drink excess alcohol, have obesity, diabetes or a family history of high cholesterol, or aren’t active.

The most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering medicines are statins. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, statins are very effective in lowering cholesterol and have been proven to significantly reduce the risk of having a cardiovascular event and even dying from a cardiovascular event. In fact, statins have been considered the standard of care for treating high cholesterol for many years.

Challenges associated with taking statins

Unfortunately, statins are not appropriate for all people with high cholesterol. As many as 30% of patients do not tolerate statins because of serious side effects, particularly muscle pain or weakness. Other patients don’t have side effects from statins but can’t get their cholesterol level down low enough to reduce their risk of a cardiovascular event.

Lowering cholesterol is important both for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Primary prevention means preventing heart disease in people who have not had a prior heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular event but are at high risk of having one. Secondary prevention means preventing a cardiovascular event in someone who already has existing heart disease.

However, in the United States, primary prevention patients are currently under-treated when it comes to cholesterol lowering. Research shows that half of people at high risk of having a cardiovascular event are not currently receiving cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Statins remain the gold standard when it comes to the first medicine doctors prescribe both for patients who have already had and those who have not yet had a cardiovascular event. But for those patients who can’t tolerate statins or can’t get their cholesterol low enough to meet their goal, it is important to know about other treatment options.

A recent analysis from a Cleveland Clinic-led clinical trial of nearly 14,000 patients showed the use of another cholesterol-lowering treatment in statin-intolerant patients who had not had a cardiovascular event but who had risk factors, such as diabetes, significantly reduced the chance of major adverse cardiovascular events, including:

• heart attacks
• strokes
• a procedure to put a stent in a blocked coronary artery
• death from cardiovascular disease

If you have high cholesterol and could benefit from lowering your cholesterol but can’t take a statin, talk to your doctor about treatment options for managing your high cholesterol and reducing your cardiovascular risk.

2023-07-13T23:01:00

(BPT) – Michael Cramer was just an active teenager, enjoying recreational pursuits such as surfing and sailing. Then one day he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. After several different treatment attempts, he was matched with a bone marrow donor and both Cramer and his mother Ashlee hoped that would mean the end of his battle with cancer.

At the time they did not know he would develop chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease (cGVHD), a rare disease that can impact allogeneic (meaning cells come from a donor) blood and marrow transplant recipients. Depending on the severity of symptoms and number of organs affected, cGVHD can impair a person’s ability to engage in daily activities — and in severe cases may be life-threatening. Symptoms can occur at any time after a transplant when donor cells (the graft) attack the patient’s (the host’s) organs and/or tissues.

While cGVHD can affect people in many different ways, Cramer has experienced fatigue, elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, skin dryness, rashes, mouth dryness and sensitivity, and very fragile skin. His liver symptoms became severe, leading to an extended hospitalization.

Exploring treatment options

With his mother Ashlee by his side, Cramer’s doctors began to treat his cGVHD with various medications, including steroids, without success. Cramer was driven to learn about his condition and scoured the internet to become more informed. That search, along with a long talk with his doctors, led him to Rezurock^® (belumosudil), a prescription medicine used to treat adults and children 12 years of age and older with cGVHD after a patient has received at least two prior treatments (systemic therapy) and they did not work.

Given his prior failures on other medications, Cramer worked closely with his care team and was prescribed Rezurock.

“My experience on Rezurock so far has been very good,” Cramer said. “I’m living my new life now, getting back into a rhythm, and I appreciate each and every single moment of it.”

The most common side effects of Rezurock include infections, tiredness or weakness, nausea, diarrhea, shortness of breath, cough, swelling, bleeding, stomach (abdominal) pain, muscle or bone pain, headache, and high blood pressure. Patient experiences on Rezurock may vary so please talk to your doctor when making treatment decisions. Please see additional Important Safety Information in this article.

Turning adversity into advocacy

Wanting to help people who have similar cGVHD stories, Cramer decided to share his experiences through TikTok, where he now has more than 100,000 followers.

“As an advocate, you can explain what it’s like and speak out to help others,” Cramer explained. “Having cGVHD is very lonely, since not everybody knows about it. It’s very important to advocate for yourself and tell your doctors and nurses what you’re experiencing.”

Throughout Cramer’s experience, his mother and caregiver, Ashlee, continues to support him. “Not everyone will get cGVHD, just like each person is different, and each case of cGVHD is different. Being positive or optimistic won’t prevent it, but it does impact how you live your life,” said Ashlee. “You have to adapt because you won’t be able to go back to your ‘previous life.’ Michael won’t be the surfer or sailor he was before cancer and cGVHD, but now we can enjoy walking on the beach after sunset. He can still enjoy things by adapting and staying positive.”

Twenty-one-year-old Cramer is now working towards his undergraduate degree. He exercises indoors on his stationary bike and tries new hobbies like building elaborate Lego sets and is learning to play guitar.

Cramer also continues speaking to patients by hosting a podcast with his mom called “Michael and Mom Talk Cancer” to spread awareness and information about his cancer and cGVHD journey, as well as his mom’s caregiver journey. Together, they know their advocacy will have a positive impact, especially for those experiencing cGVHD who need a community around them. He wants others to know there’s a medication out there that can work, and that there’s hope, even with this diagnosis. “It’s going to be difficult. But because you’re living with cGVHD, that means you’re still alive,” Cramer said. “Be as present as possible and be grateful for your friends, family, and the small moments that remind you that you can get through it.”

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. Learn more about cGVHD and a treatment option at www.REZUROCK.com.

USE

REZUROCK^® (belumosudil) is a prescription medicine used to treat adults and children 12 years of age and older with chronic graft-versus-host disease (chronic GVHD) after you have received at least 2 prior treatments (systemic therapy) and they did not work. It is not known if REZUROCK is safe and effective in children less than 12 years old.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

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

• have kidney or liver problems.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. REZUROCK can harm your unborn baby. If you are able to become pregnant, your healthcare provider will do a pregnancy test before starting treatment with REZUROCK. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with REZUROCK.
• Females who can become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment with REZUROCK and for at least 1 week after the last dose.
• Males with female partners who can become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment with REZUROCK and for at least 1 week after the last dose.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if REZUROCK passes into breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with REZUROCK and for at least 1 week after the last dose.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. REZUROCK may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect the way REZUROCK works.

Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

How should I take REZUROCK?

• Take REZUROCK exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.
• Do not change your dose or stop taking REZUROCK without first talking to your healthcare provider.
• Take REZUROCK 1 time a day with a meal.
• Take REZUROCK at about the same time each day.
• Swallow REZUROCK tablets whole with a glass of water.
• Do not cut, crush, or chew REZUROCK tablets.
• Your healthcare provider will do blood tests to check your liver at least 1 time a month during treatment with REZUROCK.
• If you miss a dose of REZUROCK, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. Take your next dose of REZUROCK at your regular time on the next day. Do not take extra doses of REZUROCK to make up for a missed dose.
• If you take too much REZUROCK, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.

What are the possible side effects of REZUROCK?

The most common side effects of REZUROCK include:

infections tiredness or weakness nausea diarrhea shortness of breath cough

swelling bleeding stomach (abdominal) pain muscle or bone pain headache high blood pressure

Your healthcare provider may change your dose of REZUROCK, temporarily stop, or permanently stop treatment with REZUROCK if you have certain side effects.

REZUROCK may affect fertility in males and females. Talk to your healthcare provider if this is a concern for you.

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

Please see accompanying full Prescribing Information.

You are encouraged to report side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also contact Kadmon Pharmaceuticals, LLC, at 1-877-377-7862 to report side effects.

2023-07-11T12:34:10

(BPT) – Your eye health affects more than just your vision. Why, then, do so many skip their annual eye exam? Read on to see why annual eye exams are so critical to your overall health and how VSP Individual Vision Plans can help.

2023-07-10T12:01:00

(BPT) – Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the U.S. While it’s often seen as a result of aging, this is a dangerous misconception. Research shows one of the most effective ways to lower the risk of heart attacks or strokes is to reduce your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol — also known as “bad” cholesterol — for as long as possible.

Ora Williams, who is in her late 60s, learned she had elevated LDL cholesterol when she was in her 20s, but treatments were limited at that time. Ora knew her family had a long history of heart disease, so she did all she could with what was available to her. Over the years, she lost her father and her 44-year-old brother to heart attacks.

Then, Williams’ son tragically passed from a sudden heart attack. He was just 38 years old.

Soon after Williams discovered she had heart disease and had to have her own heart bypass surgery.

“I knew my family had heart disease,” Williams shared. “I always asked myself — why didn’t I ask more questions or do more before it happened to me?”

According to research from the Family Heart Foundation, a research and advocacy organization helping families navigate their heart health, 7 out of 10 Americans at high risk for cardiovascular disease are not reaching recommended LDL cholesterol levels. This leaves them in danger of a heart attack or stroke.

“Elevated LDL cholesterol is often caused by both genetics and lifestyle,” said Dr. Mary McGowan, chief medical officer at the Family Heart Foundation. “Regardless of its cause, the health risks are severe and consequences can literally be deadly. Our research shows that people at high risk for cardiovascular disease who don’t keep their LDL cholesterol at the recommended level are nearly 50 percent more likely to suffer a cardiac event than those who do.”

The Family Heart Foundation calls the recommended LDL cholesterol level the “Safe Zone.” Today, Williams has finally found the right treatment combination to get to her LDL Safe Zone. As an advocate for the Family Heart Foundation, she helps others make positive changes in their lives.

“I can’t do anything about what happened. But what I can do is take the steps to control my LDL cholesterol. I can tell my story with the hope of saving others from the challenges I faced, and encourage them to get in their Safe Zone.”

While many can lower their LDL cholesterol with a heart-healthy diet, some, like Williams, will need medication to reach their Safe Zone. Some will require more than one medication, known as “combination therapy.” However, only 20% of doctors in the U.S. are using combination therapy for people at high risk for cardiovascular disease. There are many effective therapies available today, and your journey to the LDL Safe Zone might begin with a conversation with your healthcare provider about what will work for you.

Take action now to get to your Safe Zone:

1. Get your cholesterol tested, and ask to see the results before you meet with your healthcare provider.

2. Talk with your healthcare provider about what your results mean, and ask what your recommended LDL cholesterol level is based on your risk.

3. Get to your Safe Zone with effective LDL-lowering treatments and stay there, don’t wait.

4. Make sure you get the correct diagnosis, especially if high cholesterol and heart disease run in your family. You may be at risk for a genetic cholesterol disorder.

To learn more about how to get into the safe zone, visit LDLSafeZone.org.

2023-07-07T08:01:00

(BPT) – Warmer weather means more time spent outdoors, especially if you have children. Your kids want to soak up the summer fun, so you need quick snacks to fuel your on-the-go adventures.

“Proper nutrition is critical to keeping kids healthy and happy as they enjoy the sunshine and outdoors,” said registered dietitian Chelsey Amer. “It can be challenging to balance convenience and a healthy diet, but there are plenty of snacks you can pack for your summertime adventures.”

Be ready for your kids’ snack attacks this summer by packing any (or all!) of Amer’s eight go-to favorite on-the-go snacks.

1. Popcorn trail mix

Did you know popcorn is considered a whole grain? It packs a whopping 3 grams of filling fiber per serving. Mix it with your favorite additions — such as raisins, chocolate chips, pumpkin seeds, nuts, etc. — for a fun assortment of energy boosters. Just make sure your kids are old enough to safely eat popcorn and nuts, as they can be a choking hazard for little ones under four years old.

2. Fruit and vegetable pouches

Fruit and vegetable pouches are super portable and easy for kids to take with them as they explore, play and just be kids. Pick up a variety pack of GoGo squeeZ^® Fruit & VeggieZ DinosaurZ fruit pouches for a wholesome mix of fruits and veggies in three fun flavors: Roarrr Berry, Prehistoric Peach and Jurassic Pear. These are gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free and BPA-free, making them an accessible, affordable, no-mess, no-spoon and squeezable snack perfect on the go. Plus, the colorful prints and the dinosaur figures are sure to bring the ‘give me!’ factor for the little ones in their dino phase.

3. Crispy roasted chickpeas

If you enjoy hummus, then you’ll love crispy roasted chickpeas. They provide a double punch of protein and fiber to help you stay full for hours. Plus, they’re fun to munch on and come in tons of flavors. The same thing goes for these as the popcorn — you might want to save it for kids 4 and up!

4. Dry whole-grain cereal

Whole-grain cereals are rich in fiber, so they help you stay full as you head from one activity to another. Before you pour a bowl for breakfast, check the added sugar content to keep it to a minimum. Best of all, most whole-grain cereals are fortified with vitamins and minerals, making them a great choice to help meet your kids’ needs.

5. Yogurt pouches

Yogurt is a delicious snack option, but it can get messy and require refrigeration. Not with GoGo squeeZ, though! GoGo squeeZ^® YogurtZ Mango & Peach pouches, now available in a variety pack, are easy to take with your family on the go for a creamy and delicious snack with no spoon or mess — and best of all, no refrigeration required. Each pouch contains a creamy blend of lowfat yogurt and fruits in a pouch, providing kids with 4 grams of protein, calcium and vitamin D₃¹ — two vital nutrients that many kids are missing out on.²

6. Veggies with a nut butter pack

Make veggies fun and filling by packing a nut butter pack to dip them in. Nut or seed butter contains filling fats, so your little one won’t be looking for another snack right away while they play. Plus, delicious nut/seed butter can encourage them to eat more vegetables.

7. Tortilla roll-ups

Tortilla roll-ups provide a tasty and balanced snack for the whole family. A whole-grain tortilla, turkey deli meat and cheese contain a powerful mix of carbs, proteins and fats that provide lasting energy for your all-day activities.

8. Snack-sized cheese

Cheese is a great snack to have on hand for summer activities. It’s easy to grab and go and is full of protein that can help your family stay full as you play outdoors. Just make sure that you eat it within about two hours after taking it out of the fridge. For even more energy, pair it with a piece of sturdy fruit like an apple, orange or banana.

1 – 10% vitamin D per 6 oz

2 – Bailey, A. D. L., Fulgoni III V. L., Shah, N., Patterson, A. C., Gutierrez-Orozco, F., Mathews, R. S., Walsh, K. R. (2021). Nutrient Intake Adequacy from Food and Beverage Intake of US Children Aged 1–6 Years from NHANES 2001–2016. Nutrients, 13(3), 827. Retrieved from https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/3/827

2023-06-30T17:01:00

(BPT) – Having recently recognized National Cancer Survivor Month, when we celebrate the stories of the brave men and women who have fought and survived this unexpected and life-altering news of cancer diagnosis, it seems an appropriate time to discuss a key component of what might make more individuals diagnosed with cancer fall into the category of a survivor. First and foremost is early detection. Finding cancer in its early stages is one of the best and most cost-effective ways to improve one’s treatment options and overall survival rate. Wellness check-ups and health screenings aren’t just for older people. Everyone, including young people, can benefit from regularly seeing their doctor to discuss their health and have any recommended screenings or tests.

Unfortunately, many people delayed or avoided health care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. However, data is showing a rebound in outpatient visits.¹ That is the good news.

So why is this important? Because regular wellness check-ups and screenings help to improve early detection of serious illness. Not only does early detection increase the patient’s odds for more treatment options, but it also can help reduce overall costs and lead to a better overall outcome. And this is something that we can all benefit from, regardless of age, demographic or background. According to a new Wellness Matters Study of 2,201 Americans conducted by Aflac:

• 1 in 4 respondents say they have skipped a regular checkup because they feel healthy.
• 1 in 2 admit to having skipped a common health screening.

Yet at the same time, 51% of respondents diagnosed with cancer say they discovered it at a routine medical exam or a regularly scheduled screening, showcasing the value of having a policy that helps cover this type of medical visit.

So what can we do? Well, first of all, we can take care of our own health and, second, we can encourage our friends and families to develop good habits. That same survey indicates that 35% of Americans are likely to go to a routine checkup if a friend or loved one encourages … or, in some cases, nags … them to go. Secondly, 85% said they are more likely to go if it meant receiving a cash incentive to do so. National Cancer Survivor Month put the focus on this issue. Now, let’s keep it going and make a difference. Let’s take control of our healthcare.

For more information about the wellness matters survey visit aflac.com/WellnessMatters.

¹ Impact COVID-19 Outpatient Visits 2020: Visits Remained Stable | Commonwealth Fund

² Aflac (2023). Wellness Matters Survey. The 2023 Wellness Matters Survey was conducted among a nationally representative sample of 2,001 employed U.S. adults ages 18-65 in June 2023 by Kantar Profiles on behalf of Aflac. As part of the Hispanic population report, 200 Spanish-speaking respondents were added for a total of 580 respondents to ensure a robust understanding of this population. The additional 200 are not included in the general population report in order to maintain the nationally representative sample.

Aflac’s family of insurers include American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus, American Family Life Assurance Company of New York, Continental American Insurance Company, and Tier One Insurance Company.

Aflac | WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999

Z2300669 EXP 6/24

2023-06-30T08:01:00

(BPT) – As the back-to-school season approaches, parents and caregivers of children with diabetes should review emergency plans for treating low blood sugar emergencies. With children spending a lot of time at school, it’s important to have a good plan in place — so your child and those around them have the tools they need to treat low blood sugar quickly and safely. It is important to review and update your child’s diabetes medical management plan at the start of every school year. This includes making sure you have a plan in place for low blood sugar emergencies.

Once you have reviewed and updated your child’s low blood sugar emergency treatment plan, it’s important to work with the school health team to create a supportive environment that is at the ready. Hypoglycemia treatment plans should educate school staff on recognizing signs and symptoms, as well as how to respond to them. It should clearly outline the proper use of each tool in the emergency kit, such as glucose tabs, juice, soda and glucagon, and when to use them.

When it comes to glucagon, the type in your child’s kit matters. Ready-to-use glucagon treatment options enable simpler administration during very low blood sugar emergencies. Your child may need help from an untrained bystander, making it critical to have a tool anyone can administer.

Gvoke HypoPen^® is designed for such situations, with 99% of trained and untrained users successfully administering it in a study with simulated emergency conditions.[1] In just two simple steps, it brings very low blood sugar levels back to normal quickly and safely.[2]^* Make sure your child’s treatment plan includes Gvoke HypoPen^®, the ready-to-use rescue pen that anyone can administer.[1],[2]

“I want my son’s school to be able to take good care of him while he’s in their hands. That’s why I’ve trained them on how to use Gvoke^® for severe lows.” — Nicole, mother to a son who lives with type 1 diabetes.

*People are considered to be out of a low blood sugar event when their blood sugar rises to 70 mg/dL or higher.[3]

INDICATION AND SAFETY SUMMARY

GVOKE is a prescription medicine used to treat very low blood sugar (severe hypoglycemia) in adults and kids with diabetes ages 2 years and above. It is not known if GVOKE is safe and effective in children under 2 years of age.

WARNINGS

Do not use GVOKE if:

• you have a tumor in the gland on top of your kidneys (adrenal gland), called a pheochromocytoma.
• you have a tumor in your pancreas called an insulinoma.
• you are allergic to glucagon or any other inactive ingredient in GVOKE.

GVOKE MAY CAUSE SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS, INCLUDING:

High blood pressure. GVOKE can cause high blood pressure in certain people with tumors in their adrenal glands.

Low blood sugar. GVOKE can cause low blood sugar in certain people with tumors in their pancreas called insulinomas by making too much insulin in their bodies.

Serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you have a serious allergic reaction including:

• rash
• difficulty breathing
• low blood pressure

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

The most common side effects of GVOKE in adults include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• swelling at the injection site
• headache

The most common side effects of GVOKE in children include:

• nausea
• low blood sugar
• high blood sugar
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• headache
• pain or redness at the injection site
• itching

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

BEFORE USING

Before using GVOKE, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you:

• have adrenal gland problems
• have a tumor in your pancreas
• have not had food or water for a long time (prolonged fasting or starvation)
• have low blood sugar that does not go away (chronic hypoglycemia)
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

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

HOW TO USE

• Read the detailed Instructions for Use that come with GVOKE.
• Use GVOKE exactly how your healthcare provider tells you to use it
• Make sure your relatives, close friends, and caregivers know where you store GVOKE and how to use it the right way before you need their help.
• Act quickly. Having very low blood sugar for a period may be harmful.
• Your healthcare provider will tell you how and when to use GVOKE.
• After giving GVOKE, your caregiver should call for emergency medical help right away.
• If you do not respond after 15 minutes, your caregiver may give you another dose, if available. Tell your healthcare provider each time you use GVOKE. Low blood sugar may happen again after receiving an injection of GVOKE. Your diabetes medicine may need to be changed.

HOW TO STORE

• Keep GVOKE in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it.
• Store GVOKE at temperatures between 68°F and 77°F.
• Do not keep it in the refrigerator or let it freeze.

Keep GVOKE and all medicines out of the reach of children.

For more information, call 1-877-937-4737 or go to www.GvokeGlucagon.com.

Please see patient information here.

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2023-06-29T11:03:00

(BPT) – Occasional stress can send your mind and body into overdrive and can create significant challenges to maintaining general wellness. It often interferes with restful sleep, healthy normal digestion or simply being able to quiet the mind; all of which can take a toll on your wellbeing.

“When it comes to supporting occasional stress management, as well as health and general wellness, safe and effective strategies should be priority number one. I recommend first trying these lifestyle and nutrition methods,” explains Dr. Chris Lee, who is a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) and specializes in the neuropsychology of wellness. “In fact, there are a number of options that work — and come with bonus benefits.” According to Dr. Chris Lee, the following options are safe, easy to do, and have additional advantages:

1. Be Mindful

Racing thoughts are a common symptom for those suffering with occasional stress, but there are techniques that can help focus these thoughts. For example, try setting a goal-oriented daily routine that you can achieve. Establishing reasonable expectations for yourself, as well as for the people in your support network, can help you gain traction in your mental health goals. On that same note, list building is another tip that can help keep you from feeling overwhelmed. When you take time to prioritize actionable items with start and finish dates, the bigger picture seems a lot more manageable.

Bonus Benefit – Once you get your routine fine-tuned, you’re likely to have more free time to try other cognitive coping mechanisms, like meditation. The power to dial down the chaos of life and simply be present is a learned skill. In fact, the regular practice of meditation not only calms your mind, but it can have a positive effect on your physical health including lower blood pressure and improved sleep.

2. Get Supplemental Support

Supplements are an easy way to ensure you’re getting essential nutrients and to help maintain or support your health. Standard Process^®, a leading whole food-based nutritional supplement company has a number of product offerings formulated to help balance your mood, including Ashwagandha Forte and Drenamin^®.

Ashwagandha Forte is an herbal supplement that contains Ashwagandha root which is used traditionally as a rejuvenating tonic for stress*. As a nervous system relaxant, it calms the mind and soothes the nerves*. Drenamin^® is a supplement for adrenal support that promotes healthy adrenal gland function, maintains energy production and helps maintain emotional balance*.

Bonus Benefit – Besides aiding in supporting a balanced mood, Drenamin^® encourages a healthy response to everyday environmental stresses and supports the body’s natural immune system response function*.

3. Get Moving

Exercise can be an extremely helpful tool in managing occasional stress. Why? One theory is because the mind is distracted during exercise. Additionally, physical activity releases endorphins which help us to feel happier and more content. And while sticking with an exercise regimen can seem daunting, starting slow and building up your fitness level gradually helps with sustainability. Small changes, like taking the stairs at work or walking the dog for another lap around the block, are great ways to start. In fact, walking is one of the best forms of exercise out there. It’s free, low impact, can be done indoors or outdoors and can be done with friends.

Bonus Benefit – Not surprisingly, daily exercise has a wide range of added benefits, according to the National Institutes of Health. This includes improved mobility, weight management and lowering the risk of heart disease, to name just a few.

4. Sleep Clean

Healthy sleep aids in healthy stress management; however, occasional stress can hinder restorative sleep. Thankfully, there are ways to support restful sleep. Clean sleep, or sleep hygiene, is a practice that prepares your mind and body for bedtime. Clean sleep tips include only using your bed for sleep, going technology-free for at least an hour before bedtime and sticking to a consistent sleep schedule. Creating a sleep routine programs your brain and internal body clock for rest. This helps your mind and body create a rhythm that can sustain energy and focus throughout the day.

Bonus Benefit – A regular sleep pattern also helps support healthy normal blood sugar levels. When we are low on sleep, we often reach for refined carbohydrates — or sugar, but sleeping enough at night can curb these cravings.

5. Pinpoint the Problem

Acupuncture is a centuries-old technique used to treat many conditions, including alleviating stress. This Chinese-based medicine involves the insertion of fine needles at strategic points on the body. Stimulating different points provides various therapeutic benefits; for example, some points encourage the release of serotonin. When serotonin is at a normal level, you feel focused and calm.

Bonus Benefit – Pain and occasional stress often go hand in hand, but acupuncture is one way to manage both at the same time. There are several ways in which acupuncture potentially helps to decrease pain. For example, it can increase blood flow to the tissue, bringing nutrients and oxygen to stimulate healing.

“Prioritizing your health is crucial,” continued Dr. Chris Lee. “The above tips are just some of the ways you can improve your overall well-being and find the strength to better navigate your daily health goals.”

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