Category: Brandpoint Health

2022-12-08T16:47:00

(BPT) – It’s been well-established that physical activity like walking, yoga and going to a fitness center has many health benefits for older adults. These include better sleep, less anxiety and reduced risk of heart disease, along with many other benefits that may improve overall health.

But what if physical activity could help older adults feel less alone, even if they were exercising alone?

Researchers from AARP Services Inc., UnitedHealthcare and OptumLabs set out to investigate this question, focusing on two areas:

• Could physical activity help to reduce social isolation and/or loneliness?
• Could physical activity promote higher levels of resilience, purpose or positive perception of aging?

There’s a continued emphasis on supporting older adults as they work to find meaning, purpose and resilience as they age. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, it may have been harder to find opportunities to exercise, which contributed to greater feelings of social isolation and loneliness.

The results of the study point to strong evidence that physical activity can help older adults feel less alone and socially isolated, as well as positively increase their feelings of resilience and purpose.

Researchers found that:

• Moderate and high physical activity were associated with significantly reduced rates (15%-30% lower) of severe loneliness and social isolation
• The same level of physical activity was also associated with improved feelings (27%-150% higher) of resilience, purpose and a positive perception of aging

The level of physical activity came from the number of days a week someone would exercise (even walking or gardening), not the intensity of the exercise itself. Moderate to high levels ranged between three to four days a week or five-plus days a week, respectively.

“Continuing to be physically active over time may be one of the best things older adults can do for themselves to promote healthy aging — mental, physical and emotional,” said Shirley Musich, senior research director at OptumInsight and one of the co-authors of the study.

Talk with your doctor about healthy ways to incorporate fitness into your routine. For individuals recovering from an injury, consider seeking advice from a physical therapist who may identify areas requiring special focus.

2022-12-08T04:01:00

(BPT) – Understanding the full scope of benefits provided by your health insurance plan can be confusing. From premiums and deductibles to in-network providers and co-pays, there’s a lot to wrap your head around. But if you take some time to understand all the perks, you may find several money-saving benefits.

1. Read your coverage documents every year

Before you can use your plan, you need to know what’s included. At the beginning of each year, set aside a few minutes to look over your summary of benefits, even if you opted for the same plan as last year. It’s possible that your insurance company made some changes that could affect you. It’s also a good idea to check your benefits if your health has changed recently. Components of your plan that you didn’t need before may become important — such as prenatal benefits or coverage for a specific medical specialist.

2. Find a good primary care doctor

An annual physical with a primary care doctor you trust will help you stay up to date on your health. Your primary care doctor keeps track of your medical history and can help you navigate the overall health care system when bigger health concerns arise. If you’re looking for a primary care doctor, ask for referrals from friends or family in your area.

3. Take advantage of preventive care

Your primary care doctor can also help you by flagging the screenings and preventive measures available to keep you healthy. Even if you have a high-deductible plan, most preventive care is included in your coverage without out-of-pocket costs. Diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure screenings are typically covered along with breast cancer screenings and certain immunizations. If you don’t use the benefits, you may be leaving money on the table.

If you have a vision plan, an annual eye exam is available and can help you save up to $200 per year on eye care. VSP^® Individual Vision Plans has the largest independent eye doctor network and offers 20% savings on additional glasses, sunglasses and lens enhancements. VSP also partners with Guardian Direct to help you save on dental insurance plans as well.

4. Plan procedures strategically

While you can’t plan for emergencies, there are some procedures you can be strategic about if you have a deductible plan. If you have a bigger procedure you can wait for, such as a joint replacement, you may want to wait until you’ve met your deductible. If you pay into your deductible over the year with health care services, it’s likely your insurance will cover most of your surgery cost. On the other hand, others might choose to schedule more expensive procedures at the beginning of the year to meet their deductible early and have the rest of their health care costs covered throughout the year.

5. Understand your extra perks

Many insurance providers offer extra opportunities for savings that often go unused. For example, your insurer might offer discounts on gym memberships if you meet certain requirements. Some providers also help you save on prescriptions if you use their preferred pharmacy or shop through a specific website.

Follow these tips to stay on top of your health care coverage plan and make the most of your benefits. To learn more about benefit savings, visit VSPdirect.com/Benefits-Savings.

2022-12-07T10:57:53

(BPT) – As people age, they become more likely to develop osteoporosis, a disease that occurs when bones lose density and mass. This can cause bones to be brittle, weak and easily broken. The good news is, if you’re at risk of osteoporosis, there are proactive measures you can take to monitor your bone health.

Below, Dr. Phillip Painter, chief medical officer for UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement, answers common questions about osteoporosis and highlights a test that can help with diagnosis or determining if you might be at risk.

How common is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is more common in women than men. For those age 65 and older, it affects about 1 in 4 women and 1 in 20 men. It is responsible for 2 million broken bones every year and studies suggest that approximately half of women and a quarter of men age 50 and older will break a bone, due to osteoporosis. The number of older adults with osteoporosis is likely to significantly increase as the U.S. population ages.

Osteoporotic bone breaks most often occur in the hip, spine or wrist, but other bones can break, too. Beyond significant and often permanent pain, these fractures can have many other consequences, including frailty and limited mobility, complications related to the broken bone itself or the surgery to repair it, plus the necessity of long-term care and institutionalization.

How is it diagnosed?

Talking to your doctor can help ensure you get the test that may be needed to correctly diagnose osteoporosis, which may be a simple bone mineral density (BMD) test. BMD tests can identify osteoporosis before a broken bone occurs and measure your response to osteoporosis treatment.

What is a BMD test?

The test lasts about 15 minutes or less. You usually lie down clothed, and the X-ray emitter is passed over parts of your body more likely to show signs of mineral loss, which often means your spine and hip bones, but can include other stress areas like wrists, fingers and heels.

Should I get tested?

BMD tests are recommended for women age 65 or older and men age 70 or older. Osteoporosis is more common after menopause, so women should begin talking to their doctor before menopause. Anyone with several of these risk factors – both controllable and uncontrollable – should also discuss it with their doctor, even if they are younger than the general guidelines.

Consider asking your provider if you should complete a bone density test to determine how healthy your bones are. If you’re a UnitedHealthcare member, you might get a call offering an osteoporosis screening that wouldn’t require a referral from your provider.

What do the test results mean?

Your doctor will discuss your bone density test with you, and help you interpret the results. If you are a pre-menopausal woman or a man under the age of 50, it is likely that your results will be compared to the average bone density of someone your age. If you are a man older than 50 or a post-menopausal woman, your bone density is measured against the typical bone density of a healthy 30-year-old of your same gender and reported in something called a T-score, according to the World Health Organization.

• A score of -1.0 or above is normal bone density.
• A score of -1.0 to -2.5 shows that calcium and other minerals in your bones are decreasing, a condition called osteopenia or low bone mass.
• A score of -2.5 or below is diagnosed as osteoporosis.
• A score of -2.5 or below with a history of a fracture is considered severe osteoporosis.

Although not everyone who has osteopenia will develop osteoporosis, those with low bone mass are at higher risk of breaking bones and need to be regularly evaluated with a BMD test.

How often should you be tested?

BMD testing frequency depends on factors including age, past bone density results and whether you are taking an osteoporosis treatment. Those at a higher risk for osteoporosis (for example, estrogen-deficient women, those on glucocorticoid or some other steroid therapy and those with primary hyperparathyroidism) may need earlier and more frequent testing. Be sure to discuss your specific needs with your health care provider.

Does Medicare cover these tests?

Medicare plans cover the full cost of bone mass measurement testing once every 24 months for people who meet certain criteria, but the test may be covered more often if deemed medically necessary.

What else should I know?

There is no one single way to ensure healthy bones, but there are many great habits that can help put you on the right path:

• Incorporate enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet
• Avoid smoking and limit drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages
• Take steps to minimize your risk of falls.

Increasing the amount of exercise can also help, especially regular weight-bearing routines, but any exercise – even yoga – can help keep your bones stronger for longer.

If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis or have had fractures, talk with your doctor about medication options, which can vary based on gender, age, bone health and other factors.

2022-12-06T04:01:00

(BPT) – The American workforce has been hit hard by COVID-19 in the past few years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that by November 2022, there have been 97.6 million cases in the U.S. In addition, a recent report from Brookings found that about 16 million working-age Americans (those 18-65) currently have long COVID, when symptoms continue for weeks or months after the initial illness.

Of these 16 million, about 2 million to 4 million are out of work — and for some, their absence from work has become indefinite. The most serious complications from this virus include kidney damage requiring dialysis, lung damage requiring supplemental oxygen, cardiac problems, blood clotting issues and strokes. Risk of hospitalization is found to increase notably for those ages 50 to 64. Over time, the Brookings study warns, this workforce impact could worsen.

With the prevalence of long COVID, and its health effects, it’s more important than ever for U.S. workers to be prepared in the event of a disability that disrupts employment. Here are four things they need to know when facing an extended illness.

No. 1: Even if you don’t have employer or private disability insurance, you have federal disability insurance. The Social Security Administration oversees the retirement program as well as the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. More than 159 million Americans have SSDI coverage as a result of their FICA payroll taxes. Benefits include Medicare coverage and additional monthly income for dependents under 18.

No. 2: Your absence from work does not need to be permanent. If you anticipate or find yourself unable to work due to a medical condition, and it lasts (or is expected to last) at least 12 months — then you can apply for SSDI. If you are able to eventually return to work, then all the better. During the time of your medical illness, treatment and stabilization — whether that lasts 1-2 years, 3-4 years or longer — you can always explore the opportunity of returning to work. The SSDI program has been available for decades now, providing vital support for individuals who experience cancer, stroke and other medical issues that require them to stop working for a period of time.

No. 3: You can receive free help to return to work, whenever you’re ready. One of the lesser known features of Social Security’s disability program is the Ticket to Work Program, which offers free assistance, support and services for anyone receiving SSDI benefits. Ticket to Work provides for disability beneficiaries to work with Social Security-authorized Employment Networks (EN) that assist in every aspect of returning to work — from skills assessment to job searching to interview preparation.

No. 4: You are protected when you start back to work again, continuing to receive both SSDI and your earnings from work. “Ticket to Work allows beneficiaries to earn money and keep their SSDI monthly payments while they attempt to return to work,” said Diane Winiarski, Director of Allsup Employment Services. “And as a disability beneficiary, you are immediately eligible for this voluntary program.” Its protections include Medicare coverage for up to 93 months and suspension of Continuing Disability Reviews by Social Security.

This combination of benefits for American workers through the SSDI program, including monthly disability income and free services to help them return to work, has never been more relevant for the U.S. economy, Winiarski added. “In some ways, this coordination of monthly income and return-to-work help is perfectly positioned to help U.S. workers for a time like this, when people are experiencing long-term illness — and an unknown timeline for their recovery and return to work.”

Learn more at allsup.help/workafterCOVID.

2022-12-05T09:00:00

(BPT) – The end of the year is fast approaching. For patients living with diabetes, this is a great time to check your emergency kit and replenish it with any supplies and prescriptions while maximizing your insurance benefits.

The end of the year means your insurance deductible and FSA will soon reset for the new year. Now is the time to check if you’ve met your insurance deductible. If so, make a list of medications and supplies you’ll need at home and on the go that you can purchase with your FSA.

One thing to consider purchasing at the end of this year is a glucagon rescue pen like Gvoke HypoPen^® (glucagon injection). When you experience severe low blood sugar, it can be difficult to mix your own glucagon. Instead, opt for this pre-mixed, ready-to-use glucagon injection that all patients on insulin should have in their emergency kit.

Managing your diabetes can be stressful and costly, but saving on some of your health care expenses can help ease some of that burden. You’ll be glad you have this convenient rescue pen as a safety net when it matters most. Talk to your doctor about adding Gvoke HypoPen^® to your diabetes toolkit before your FSA funds expire and your deductible resets. To learn more, visit GvokeGlucagon.com.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT GVOKE

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 of time 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.

2022-12-05T06:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Pfizer

Living with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis – also known as eczema – can be challenging.^[1] In addition to having the physical burden that includes flare-ups of red, itchy, painful skin, there can also be a significant emotional and social impact.^{[2],[3],[4],[5]} But those living with eczema aren’t alone. Eczema is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin diseases, impacting people of all genders, races, ethnicities and ages.^{[2],[6],[7],[8]} There’s no time like the present to learn more about moderate-to-severe eczema, and to myth bust four common misconceptions about this condition.

Myth: Most people grow out of their eczema

Eczema most often occurs in babies and children. While childhood eczema may go away or get better with age, about 50% of pediatric patients may have recurrent symptoms into adolescence and adulthood.^[9],[10] In fact, there are about 6.6 million adults living with moderate-to-severe eczema in the U.S.

Myth: Eczema is “just a rash”

While eczema is often defined by itchy, dry, scaly or red skin, its reach extends beyond the surface of the skin.^[8] The physical burden of eczema can be relentless and demanding with a constant cycle of itching and scratching.^[2],[5]

A study of over 1,000 people showed that about 6 in 10 people struggle to control their moderate-to-severe eczema. It’s important to tell your doctor about your eczema signs and symptoms. This can help them suggest a treatment plan that’s right for you.^[11]

Myth: The cause of eczema is the same for everyone

Eczema occurs when inflammation of the skin and skin barrier defects change your skin’s ability to hold moisture. This can make your skin dry and easily irritated.^[2],[8] There are a number of things that can trigger eczema flares, including genetic, environmental and emotional factors.^[2]

For example, a child may be more likely to develop eczema if their parent has eczema, allergic rhinitis, asthma or food allergy.^[12] Some fabrics, food, sweat or even stress can also cause flares.^[2] Some research suggests that stress makes it harder for your skin to recover from damage caused by eczema.^[13] This extended healing time can then cause more stress — adding to a continuous cycle of stress and eczema.^[13]

Myth: Topical creams and ointments are the only options available to treat moderate-to-severe eczema

Although there is no cure for eczema, there are different treatment options available. Appropriate options depend on different factors, such as age, eczema severity and previous treatment history.^[14],[15] While current therapeutic approaches do include applying over-the-counter moisturizers and emollients, or prescription topicals, there are also oral and injectable medications, and phototherapy.^[15] One option may be CIBINQO (abrocitinib) – a once-daily prescription pill to treat adults with moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis) that did not respond to other treatment and is not well controlled with prescription medicines, including biologics, or when they cannot be tolerated.^[16] Learn more at www.CIBINQO.com.

If you’ve had success with CIBINQO, consider sharing your story to help inspire others at www.CIBINQO.com/share-your-experience. It can feel great to make a positive impact for others, especially those who may be struggling.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION AND INDICATION FOR CIBINQO

CIBINQO may cause serious side effects, including:

Serious infections. CIBINQO can lower your immune system’s ability to fight infections. Do not start CIBINQO if you have any kind of infection unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay. Serious infections, including tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body, have occurred in people taking CIBINQO or other similar medicines. Some people have died from these infections. Your risk of developing shingles may increase while taking CIBINQO.

Your healthcare provider should test you for TB before treatment with CIBINQO and monitor you closely for signs and symptoms of TB infection during treatment.

Before and after starting CIBINQO, tell your doctor right away if you have an infection, are being treated for one, or have symptoms of an infection, including:

• fever, sweating, or chills
• muscle aches
• cough or 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 urinating more often than usual
• feeling very tired

CIBINQO can make you more likely to get infections or worsen infections you have.

There is an increased risk of death in people 50 years and older who have at least one heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor and are taking a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor (such as CIBINQO).

Cancer and immune system problems. CIBINQO may increase your risk of certain cancers by changing the way your immune system works. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. People, especially current or past smokers, have a higher risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and lung cancers, while taking a JAK inhibitor. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice about having your skin checked for skin cancer during treatment. Limit the amount of time you spend in sunlight and avoid using tanning beds or sunlamps. When in the sun, wear protective clothing and use SPF 30+ sunscreen. This is especially important if you have very fair skin or a family history of skin cancer. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any type of cancer.

There is an increased risk of major cardiovascular (CV) events such as heart attack, stroke or death in people 50 years and older who have at least one heart disease (CV) risk factor and are taking a JAK inhibitor, especially for current or past smokers.

Some people taking CIBINQO have had major cardiovascular events.

Get emergency help right away if you develop any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while taking CIBINQO, including:

• discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back
• severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw
• pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• weakness in one part or on one side of your body
• slurred speech
• shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort
• breaking out in a cold sweat
• nausea or vomiting
• feeling lightheaded

Blood clots. Blood clots in the veins of your legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT) or lungs (pulmonary embolism, PE) can happen in some people taking CIBINQO. This may be life-threatening. Blood clots in the veins of the legs and lungs have happened more often in people 50 years and older, with at least one heart disease (CV) risk factor, taking a JAK inhibitor. Tell your healthcare provider if you have had blood clots in the veins of your legs or lungs in the past.

Get medical help right away if you have any signs and symptoms of blood clots including swelling, pain, or tenderness in one or both legs; sudden, unexplained chest or upper back pain; shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

Changes in certain laboratory test results. Your doctor should do blood tests before and during treatment with CIBINQO to check your lymphocyte, neutrophil, red blood cell, and platelet counts. You should not take CIBINQO if these counts are too low. Your healthcare provider may stop treatment for a period of time if there are changes in these blood test results. You may also have changes in other laboratory tests, such as your blood cholesterol levels. Your doctor should do blood tests about 4 weeks after you start treatment and 4 weeks after any increase in dose to check blood cell counts and as often as needed for other laboratory tests.

During the first 3 months of treatment with CIBINQO, do not take medicines that prevent blood clots except low-dose aspirin (=81 mg daily), if prescribed.

Before taking CIBINQO, tell your healthcare provider if you:

• have an infection, are being treated for one, or have one that won’t go away or keeps returning
• have diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system
• have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB
• have had shingles (herpes zoster)
• have had hepatitis B or hepatitis C
• live, have lived, or traveled to certain areas (such as Ohio & Mississippi River Valleys and the Southwest) where there is an increased chance for getting certain kinds of fungal infections. These infections may happen or worsen when taking CIBINQO. Ask your healthcare provider if you’re unsure if you have lived in an area where these infections are common
• have had any type of cancer
• have had blood clots in the veins of your legs or lungs
• are a current or past smoker
• have had a heart attack, other heart problems, or stroke
• have kidney or liver problems
• have abnormal blood tests (low platelet count or white blood cell count)
• have any eye problems, including cataracts or retinal detachment
• have recently received or are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. People who take CIBINQO should not receive live vaccines
• are or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if CIBINQO will harm your unborn baby. Pfizer has a Pregnancy Exposure Registry for pregnant women who take CIBINQO to check your health and the health of your baby. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking CIBINQO, ask your healthcare provider how you can join this pregnancy registry or call 1-877-311-3770 to enroll
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if CIBINQO passes into your breast milk. You should not take CIBINQO while breastfeeding
• are taking other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. CIBINQO and other medicines may affect each other, causing side effects. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take aspirin or any antiplatelet therapies. Ask your healthcare provider if you are unsure

The most common side effects of CIBINQO include common cold, nausea, headache, herpes simplex including cold sores, increased blood level of creatinine phosphokinase, dizziness, urinary tract infection, tiredness, acne, vomiting, mouth and throat pain, flu, stomach flu, bacterial skin infection, high blood pressure, allergic skin rash to something you contacted, stomach pain, shingles, and low platelet count.

CIBINQO may cause fertility problems in females, which may affect the ability of females to get pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about fertility.

Separation or tear to the lining of the back part of the eye (retinal detachment) has happened in people treated with CIBINQO. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any sudden changes in your vision.

These are not all of the possible side effects of CIBINQO.

What is CIBINQO (si-BINK-oh)?
CIBINQO (abrocitinib) is a prescription medicine to treat adults with moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis) that did not respond to other treatment and is not well controlled with prescription medicines, including biologics, or when they cannot be tolerated.

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

You are encouraged to report adverse events related to Pfizer products by calling 1-800-438-1985 (U.S. only). If you prefer, you may contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) directly. Visit www.fda.gov/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

CIBINQO is available in 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg pills.

Please click for full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING, and Medication Guide or visit CIBINQO.com

This article is sponsored by Pfizer Inc.

PP-CIB-USA-0230

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2022-12-05T06:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re worried whether you’re giving your dog the best food for their health, you’re not alone. The newest generation of pet parents consider their pet’s food choices to be just as important as their own. Compared to previous generations, the next generation of pet parents are five times more likely to add a topper to their dog’s kibble to elevate the dog’s mealtime experience, according to a fresh pet food study conducted by Wellness Pet Company with The Valen Group. That adds up to nearly 4 out of 10 next gen pet parents (38%) who are topping their dog’s food each day. The study also shows that millennial and Gen Z pet parents are willing to pay up to 15% more for a premium nutritional choice, driven by their desire to seek higher quality ingredients and nutrition for the health and wellness of their pet — so they can enjoy a lifetime of wellbeing together. This growing interest in providing four-legged family members with better fresh nutrition options led Wellness Pet Food to expand their Wellness^® Bowl Boosters^® line with the launch of Wellness^® Bowl Boosters Freshly™ in June 2022. These fresh toppers are supercharging dogs’ existing kibble with complete and balanced nutrition that dogs and pet parents love.

Dr. Danielle Bernal, global veterinarian with Wellness Pet Company, knows how high-quality fresh foods make a difference in dogs’ overall health and elevate mealtime excitement to a whole new level.

“Fresh, whole-food ingredients help give our dogs what they need, such as all-day energy, strong bones and immunity as we navigate life’s adventures together,” said Bernal. “With premium protein, rice and a variety of vegetables, our newest recipes are energizing the pet and pet parent relationship at mealtime, supporting all that they love to do together.”

If you’re unsure how to tell if your dog’s food provides sufficient nutrition to optimize their health, Dr. Bernal offers some important things to consider.

1. How do you know your dog’s food is supporting their physical well-being? Look for signs like:

• Healthy skin and shiny coat
• All-day energy that keeps them running and playing
• Healthy digestion so you know your pet is absorbing essential nutrients
• Strong teeth and bones that help them eat well and stay active
• Healthy immune system that keeps dogs feeling their best

2. What ingredients in fresh products like Wellness^® Bowl Boosters Freshly™ benefit your dog’s health and how?

• Guaranteed antioxidants like Vitamins A and E for immune system support
• Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed or salmon oil for a lustrous skin and coat
• Calcium and phosphorus for strong teeth and bones
• Wholesome veggies and grains like carrots and rice for natural dietary fibers to support digestive health and provide the energy your pet needs
• Increased nutrient absorption from highly digestible proteins, fats and carbohydrates to help fuel total wellbeing
• Fresh food toppers like Wellness^® Bowl Boosters Freshly™ provide increased total hydration to support daily activity and put less strain on major organs, and help aid overall kidney and urinary health
• With a homecooked texture and high-quality fresh ingredients, a fresh topper is the ultimate way to make mealtimes exciting and more bowl-licking delicious for your pup
• “Veterinarians and food scientists at Wellness Pet Company ensure that each recipe delivers more than just the finest quality ingredients,” Bernal noted. “Our recipes provide a complete and balanced meal that meets the nutrient, vitamin and mineral needs of a dog at any life stage to promote a lifetime of shared wellbeing.”

3. Suggestions for how pet parents can use fresh foods in their daily mealtime routine

Pet parents have options on how to feed their dog fresh food, whether they are choosing to top their existing kibble with fresh food or serving as a complete meal. Remember:

• Once thawed, fresh food needs to be refrigerated and enjoyed within five days.
• Choose flavors your dog will love — Wellness^® Bowl Boosters Freshly™ recipes, for example, offer a variety of ingredients: 1) Chicken and Butternut Squash, 2) Beef and Carrots, 3) Turkey and Sweet Potatoes — and 4) a recipe made specifically for puppies, with Puppy Turkey and Rice.

“With high-quality meats, healthy grains and wholesome veggies, this fresh food delivers a tasty boost that elevates every dog’s mealtime unlike any other, for a delicious meal that even the fussiest dog will love,” added Bernal.

Wellness^® Bowl Boosters Freshly™ not only supercharges your dog’s bowl but all that you do together: more backyard frolicking, longer walks, more road trips, cozier cuddles, more energetic play dates and of course more meaningful mealtimes.

Wellness^® Bowl Boosters Freshly™ recipes are now available in freezers at PetSmart and Petco, with delivery options via DoorDash, and for purchase online at Chewy.com. Learn more about Wellness Pet Food at WellnessPetFood.com.

2022-12-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – While many adults experience constipation at various times in their lives and know how uncomfortable it can be, when those symptoms are severe and stick around for long periods of time, you may be suffering from irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) or chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC).

In addition to severity and duration, symptoms of both IBS-C and CIC may include infrequent or hard-to-pass bowel movements (BMs), straining, bloating and not feeling you’ve fully evacuated after a BM. For those with IBS-C abdominal pain is also commonly experienced.

These past few years have been difficult for people with these conditions. According to a 2022 Salix-sponsored survey of adults living with IBS and CIC, 49% of those polled reported their symptoms were more challenging to manage over the last 12 months, and 45% said they developed the condition within the past two years.

Additionally, many have not found complete relief. Many sufferers rely on over-the-counter (OTC) remedies which, the survey found, almost half of those polled reported they were not satisfied with the OTC treatments they’ve used.

If you’re experiencing long bouts of constipation, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider about your symptoms to determine if you have IBS-C or CIC. To help with the diagnosis, be prepared to describe your symptoms and how long you’ve had them.

Your doctor may also show you the Bristol Stool Form Scale, a visual representation of seven different types of BMs that’s used to identify your stool type. It may also be helpful to keep a diary to track flare-ups and possible triggers. This may help you and your doctor discuss the treatment plan that may work best for you. It is also a good idea to use that diary to track any other symptoms you may experience beyond constipation. For people suffering from IBS-C, those may include abdominal pain.

While at first you may feel awkward speaking with your doctor about bowel movements, the more informed and open you are about it, the better able they will be to properly diagnose and discuss treatment options with you.

To learn more about IBS-C and CIC symptoms and a treatment option for adults, click here.

Sponsored by Salix Pharmaceuticals

2022-12-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – Take charge of your health. Click here to learn more about endometrial cancer; resources are available for you, including a helpful discussion guide on when (and how) to talk to your doctor.

2022-12-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – To access more information about cancer, click here.