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How to Help Prevent an Overdose

2024-06-03T10:33:23

(BPT) – Mental health plays an important role in our general health and well-being. It influences how we feel, think, and act. Many Americans of all ages experience mental distress. According to National Institute of Mental Health data, more than 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental health condition.[1] A mental health condition is an illness or disorder that affects your thinking, feeling, behavior, or mood, and can range from mild to severe.[2] Moreover, about 1 in 25 U.S. adults live with a severe or serious mental health condition.[3] People with serious mental health conditions can live fulfilling lives with effective treatment.[4] However, some people are not in treatment because they lack access to care or may want to avoid perceived stigma related to mental health conditions.

Mental health awareness not only focuses on mental well-being, but also on the connection between mental health conditions and substance use. Some people with mental health conditions struggle with substance use.[5] They may turn to illicit drugs and other substances to help them cope with stress, trauma, or mental distress.[6] Brain changes in people with mental health conditions may also make it more likely they will continue to use substances and could develop substance use disorders and addiction.[7] People with substance use disorders, in turn, may have increased risk for developing other mental health conditions.[8]

And what’s more, using these drugs can have dangerous consequences, including overdose or even death. Substance use disorder affects an estimated 1 in 7 Americans, and nearly 300 Americans die every day from a drug overdose.[9][10]

What CDC is doing to Stop Overdose in America

At CDC we’re educating people about the dangers of illicitly made fentanyl, the risks and consequences of mixing drugs, the lifesaving power of naloxone, and the importance of reducing stigma around recovery and treatment options. We are using the State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System (SUDORS) to better understand the circumstances that surround overdose deaths, improve fatal overdose data timeliness and accuracy, and identify specific substances causing or contributing to overdose deaths as well as emerging and polysubstance overdose trends to help inform overdose prevention and response efforts. CDC is investing in neighborhoods, communities, cities, counties, states, and the nation to prevent overdoses and ensure the health and well-being of all Americans.

Learning how to prevent an overdose can help save a life if you know someone struggling with addiction.

Mixing drugs is never safe

People sometimes think that because they’ve mixed drugs before and nothing seemed to happen, they can do it again. However, a person’s body can react to drugs differently every time. The fact is, even if you’ve been OK in the past, there’s no way to know what the outcome will be from mixing drugs.

Why it’s so dangerous to mix drugs

No matter how it happens, mixing opioids with other drugs is incredibly risky. Using more than one drug is never safe because the effects of mixing them can be stronger or more unpredictable than one drug alone. For example, mixing opioids with stimulants (“uppers”) can increase your risk for a heart attack or a stroke. Mixing opioids with depressants (“downers”) can slow breathing or lead to brain damage. Mixing can even be deadly: More than 50 percent of overdose deaths involve multiple drugs.

“There are evidence-based treatments that work to treat both substance use disorders and mental health conditions,” said Allison Arwady, MD, MPH, director of CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. “If you know someone with a substance use disorder or who is in mental distress, you can offer them the support and encouragement they may need to get help.”

Learn the signs of overdose and how to help by using Naloxone

If you think someone could be experiencing a drug overdose – even if you’re not sure – it’s safest to treat it as an overdose. Naloxone is a lifesaving, non-addictive, over-the-counter medication that can be administered to help reverse an opioid overdose, and anyone can keep and use it to help save a life. You can get naloxone as a nasal spray or an injection, and you can use it without medical training or authorization. Also, it won’t harm a person if they’re overdosing on a drug that’s not an opioid.

Seven signs of overdose to watch for include:

  • Small constricted, pinpoint pupils
  • Slow, weak, or no breathing
  • Falling asleep or losing consciousness
  • Choking or gurgling sounds
  • Cold and/or clammy skin
  • Discolored skin, especially lips and/or nails
  • Limp body

Important steps to take when you think someone around you is overdosing:

  1. Administer naloxone, if available
  2. Call 911
  3. Keep the person awake and breathing
  4. Lay person on their side to prevent choking
  5. Stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives

For more information and resources, visit CDC.gov/StopOverdose.

If you’re in the U.S. and thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, call or text 988 now, or chat 988lifeline.org.

If you’re wanting help for substance use, know that recovery is possible. You can find evidence-based treatment and service options near you by visiting findtreatment.gov or by calling the 24/7 National Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357).

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New Program Helps COPD and Asthma Patients Afford Their Medicine

2024-06-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – For many patients, a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can come as a shock. COPD, a chronic respiratory condition, can drastically impact quality of life, making everyday tasks like walking or climbing stairs a struggle.

Oftentimes, patients know very little about COPD. Many turn to their healthcare providers for guidance and support—exploring treatment options together that include inhaler medications.

Getting the right medication to patients who need it can make a huge difference in the way respiratory conditions, like COPD and asthma, are managed. Making these medications more accessible for patients means they can go out and live their lives on their own terms. Increasing access to inhalers with predictable, affordable and consistent costs gives people the opportunity to regain a sense of normalcy.

Enter Boehringer Ingelheim, a global independent healthcare company on a mission to make essential medications more accessible to those who need them most. With the launch of their new program to cap out-of-pocket inhaler costs for eligible patients at just $35 per month, they’re breaking cost and access barriers for patients who depend on their medications.

With Boehringer Ingelheim’s program, eligible patients can benefit from support available to them, both medically and financially. It is the company’s most tangible attempt to ensure patients don’t have to choose between their health and their wallets.

As Boehringer Ingelheim continues to lead the way in ensuring their medications are more accessible, most eligible commercially insured patients should find the process of getting their inhalers not only cheaper, but simpler, too. For eligible patients with commercial insurance, the discount happens automatically at the pharmacy counter, with no action required—no websites to visit or forms to fill out.

All other eligible patients, including those whose pharmacies do not participate and those without insurance, can visit www.InhalerOffer.com to enroll for a co-pay card to present at their pharmacy to receive the same $35 reduced cost.

As with any chronic condition, it’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment. For more information about the program details, including terms and conditions, visit www.InhalerOffer.com.

*Terms and conditions apply. Government restrictions exclude people enrolled in federal government insurance programs from co-pay support.

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Exercise, meditate, sleep, eat: Stress management tips from Mississippi’s Nurse of the Year

2024-06-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – How’s your stress level? If you’re like most people — 75% of Americans experienced stress in the past month according to a 2022 survey by the American Psychological Association — you know the feeling and impacts it can have on your day-to-day life. That’s a staggering figure. A little well-timed stress can actually be a good thing. Think about those butterflies you might get before a big presentation or an important meeting. That stress can help you focus on delivering your A game.

Severe, prolonged stress? That’s different. It can affect your health more than you realize.

“Stress affects just about every system in our bodies, from headaches to chest pain and shortness of breath,” said Deidra Thompson, Mississippi’s 2024 Nurse of the Year, and graduate and instructor from Walden University. It’s an important issue that is part of her focus as she speaks to local groups of business leaders about combatting this stress epidemic in the office and at home.

The mind and body are inextricably connected, Thompson explained, so all of that worrying and fretting and even fear that’s roiling around in your brain can manifest in the body in many adverse ways, including:

  • Pain
  • GI symptoms like decreased appetite, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome
  • Chest pain
  • Elevated heart rate
  • Sweating
  • Impaired sleep
  • Decreased immunity
  • Mood swings
  • Poor concentration

That’s no way to live. While we can’t eliminate the various causes of stress in our lives — global unrest, political turmoil, rising prices, workplace hassles, job uncertainty, money problems, family strife and much more — we can do something about how we react to that stress. Thompson calls it “resilience,” the ability to adapt to challenging situations and maintain an acceptable level of functioning despite stress and adversity.

“Building resilience is about identifying and strengthening our protective factors, those things in our lives that can buffer and insulate us from stress,” she said. “They’re things like religion or spirituality, meaningful family relationships, access to and engagement in health care, financial stability, a sense of purpose and the ability and willingness to seek help.”

Thompson recommends these tips to manage stress:

Exercise. It might be the last thing you want to do when you’re feeling low, but exercise lowers the levels of stress hormones, increases endorphins, and leads to increased oxygenated blood flow to the brain. This doesn’t mean you have to run a marathon every day. Walk the dog. Get outside in nature. Yoga has been proven to increase gamma-aminobutyric acid, which leads to decreased anxiety and a better mood.

Meditate. Never done it? No problem. Meditation decreases activity in our limbic system, which plays a role in emotional response, fight-or-flight, aggression and more. All you need is a comfy chair and a quiet room. Start with five minutes. There’s no secret technique or trick to it — just be in the moment. If thoughts float in, usher them out. A good way to do this is to focus on the simple act of breathing in and out. Or find a guided meditation app to help you along.

Sleep. Do you know anyone who gets enough sleep? Poor sleep is the lament of the masses, and it can lead to myriad health problems, not the least of which is being exhausted the next day. With stress, it’s a double-edged sword because stress causes sleep problems, and sleep problems exacerbate stress. To combat this, focus on getting a good night’s sleep. Set yourself up for success with a dark, quiet room at a comfortable temperature, not too warm, not too cold. Be consistent with your bedtimes, even on weekends. Avoid large meals, caffeine or alcohol before sleep.

Eat. You might be surprised by how much nutrition plays into our feelings and mood. If you overeat, you feel sluggish. Everyone knows what Thanksgiving afternoon feels like. But did you know you can feel lethargic if you undereat? Sugar and processed foods can contribute to inflammation in the brain and body. Instead, focus on foods that are good for your mental health like fruits, leafy greens, veggies, nuts, seeds, beans and lentils.

In the tumultuous world we live in, you can’t eliminate stress. But focusing on exercise, meditation, sleep, and eating right can help you be resilient to stress factors and help insulate you from stress.

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World Hypoparathyroidism Day: How an Advocacy Organization is Driving Change to Transform Patients’ Lives

2024-05-31T12:01:01

(BPT) – This World Hypoparathyroidism Awareness Day, a global awareness and education event observed annually on June 1, the HypoPARAthyroidism Association (HPA) is calling for urgent change within the hypoPARAthyroidism (hypoPARA) community. Through educational and advocacy initiatives, we are committed to increasing the understanding of this rare disease, its management and its impact on patients and their families, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes.

What is hypoPARA?

HypoPARA is a rare endocrine disease in which insufficient levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) lead to lower-than-normal levels of calcium and elevated phosphate levels in the blood. It most commonly results from damage to or removal of the parathyroid glands during neck surgery but may also be inherited and/or associated with other disorders.

A range of serious multi-organ complications are associated with hypoPARA, including kidney disease, cardiovascular disease and decreased cognitive function. As a result of these complications — and the additional risks that can present due to the current standard of care with high doses of oral calcium and active vitamin D — patients living with hypoPARA often experience a significantly decreased quality of life.

Because the current standard of care can only address some symptoms of the disease and not its underlying cause, patients are eagerly awaiting crucial new medications that restore normal levels of PTH. In the United States, hypoPARA remains the only endocrine hormone deficiency for which a hormone replacement therapy is still not broadly available.

Elevating patient voices

Patient surveys continue to reinforce the need for a new treatment paradigm, as seen in our recent Voices of HypoPARA 2.0 survey. Results from our survey found that only 10% of patients were happy with their current treatment option, with many stating they could better manage their condition and associated symptoms with more effective medications.

As the leading patient advocacy organization in the United States, our association was invited to share this data and stories of the severe impacts of the disease with the FDA during our patient-focused drug development session earlier this year. Our goal was to ensure FDA representatives and other key stakeholders understand the ongoing crisis this community faces and the substantial negative impact that the current standard of care can have on patients’ lives.

In a continued effort to raise awareness and change how physicians think about and treat hypoPARA, we will also be participating in various educational panels at this year’s Endocrine Society (ENDO) annual meeting — which coincides with World Hypoparathyroidism Awareness Day.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to represent the patient community to help elevate physician understanding of the significant burdens of living with hypoPARA,” said Patty Keating, Executive Director of the HPA. “Amplifying patients’ voices is crucial for making improvements in diagnosis and care.”

Hope on the horizon

Fortunately, there are new and promising hypoPARA treatment options on the horizon. We’ve seen momentum in the treatment landscape begin to shift and advance internationally, and we hope to see similar progress made in the United States soon.

For those living with hypoPARA, the rollercoaster of gaining and losing promising treatment options over recent years has been devastating. Yet, despite the unique challenges posed by hypoPARA, our community has not lost hope. Patients, caregivers and advocates are standing united in our vision for a future where treatment options are not just effective but also accessible and available to all in need. There’s no reason for hypoPARA patients to suffer any longer.

Together, we hold the promise of better health and a higher quality of life for individuals grappling with hypoPARA. Together, we can Be the Change.

To learn more, visit hypopara.org or facebook.com/hypoPARAassociation/.

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Go Big without Staying Home this Summer: Travel and Entertainment Spending Tips for 2024

2024-05-31T12:59:00

(BPT) – By Mary Hines Droesch, Head of Consumer, Small Business & Wealth Management Banking and Lending Products at Bank of America

Summer travel planning is officially in full swing, and while many Americans are likely to be mindful of their spending, plenty are eager to get out and experience the world.

Gen Z seems to be leading the charge. According to a recent Bank of America survey, 24% of Gen Zers are planning to take longer trips in 2024 than years prior, whereas millennials (16%), Gen X (9%) and baby boomers (7%) are less likely to do so. Gen Z also takes the lead in international travel, with 20% planning an international trip — far ahead of millennials (10%), Gen X (8%) and baby boomers (6%).

Meanwhile, 81% do not plan on postponing any travel plans, and 91% say they plan ahead for vacation. So, what’s driving this appetite for big adventure — especially among younger generations?

The fact that entertainment has been making a big splash could have something to do with it. Last year, Swifties and the BeyHive showed us just how much they’re willing to sacrifice to see their favorite artists on stage, and “Barbenheimer” took the world by storm via the screen. Considering that 45% of people said they were likely to splurge on experiences while traveling and 38% are already planning to travel internationally, the excitement is likely to continue this summer. Beyonce’s recent album release has fans on the edges of their seats anticipating a tour announcement, the Eras Tour is hitting international venues and the Olympic Games are taking over Paris.

While 72% of people are planning to travel this summer, however, most don’t plan to throw all financial consideration to the wind. In fact, 84% of those who will be traveling will establish a budget or spending limit.

If you’re all about going big without going broke, here are some tips to help you offset costs on travel this summer:

1. Plan your travel and entertainment budget thoughtfully. When considering how much to budget, start by thinking through how you’re most likely to spend during your trip. For example, 27% of travelers budget solely for major expenses and maintain flexibility with other spending on vacation. Consider the things you want to go all out on, and where can you cut back. Self-proclaimed foodie? You’ll want to make sure your food and beverage budget has plenty, while you may be able to cut other costs by booking less expensive accommodations. If it’s kicking back and relaxing on a luxurious bed that you look forward to most, consider budgeting more for accommodations and less for food, opting to grocery shop instead of eating out every night.

Another important consideration when it comes to planning your spending this summer is your “fun budget.” Especially if you’re traveling for a big-ticket event like a concert, you’ll want to make sure you know how much you can spend on the ticket — and how much that leaves for the rest of your travel budget. Americans tend to overspend in this area, with the biggest culprits for going over the “fun budget” being trying new restaurants (42%), concerts/music festivals (39%) and sporting events (30%).

2. Start planning now. Plan as much as you can, as early as you can. Avoid last-minute price hikes on tickets for both travel and entertainment by buying them well in advance, taking advantage of early bird discounts on flights and booking your accommodations before options fill up.

What’s more, when you start the process early, you might get lucky and find a package deal with offers that include flights, accommodations and even event tickets.

3. Use a rewards credit card before and during travel. Whether you plan to spend big on a trip or go the more frugal route, consider using a cash back credit card to help offset some of your vacation expenses. With the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card, each month you can choose to earn 3% cash back in one of six spending categories, including travel, dining, online shopping and more. To maximize your cash back, you could choose the travel category for the months before your trip when you’re booking accommodations and flights, then switch to a new category, like dining, to make the most of your purchases during your trip.

If you’ve earned credit card rewards but haven’t used them yet, consider putting them toward your travel and entertainment purchases to offset some of the costs. Or, if you’re planning to travel next year, too, consider putting the cash rewards you earn this summer into a savings account, so you’ll have funds at the ready for future endeavors.

Overall, despite some lingering financial concerns, the appetite for travel is strong. High-profile entertainment, like concerts and sporting events, is likely to be a major draw for travelers this summer — which means effective money management will be key for consumers. By strategizing and making wise financial decisions, even the most adventurous vacationers can enjoy a remarkable summer getaway without blowing the budget.

Sponsored by Bank of America

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Focus on these 4 areas to protect your home’s exterior

2024-05-31T09:01:00

(BPT) – While you probably know your deck needs waterproofing, did you know many other materials outside your home like concrete, masonry and fabrics also need protection? To help keep exterior parts of your home in good condition, waterproofing is key. Here are tips from the experts at Thompson’s WaterSeal to help safeguard your home.

1. Maintain exterior wood

Whether for your deck, fencing or siding, wood sealer provides durable protection from water and sun damage.

When wood absorbs water, it swells, and as it dries, it contracts. Repeated cycles of expansion and contraction cause small cracks that grow over time. In cold climates, this cycle is worsened by seasonal freezing and thawing. Without protection, excessive moisture in wood also supports fungi that causes wood rot.

While sunlight doesn’t structurally damage wood, it will turn the upper layer of wood silver over time. Sunlight also affects stains and finishes, leaving wood more vulnerable to water damage. This is especially true in warmer, southern climates.

How to waterproof wood

High-quality wood stains protect decks for four to six years, and fencing and siding for five to 15 years. To see if re-application is needed, try the “splash test”: Sprinkle water on various sections of the wood. If water absorbs and darkens the color of the wood within five seconds, the surface should be treated. If water beads up on the surface, it doesn’t need treatment. Reapplication timing depends on climate, deck use and sealer opacity. More opaque stains like solid color wood sealers provide the longest protection.

Select a product with minimum required coats to provide year-round protection. You can choose solid color wood sealer, which adds the most color and shows the least wood grain, or transparent wood sealer, which adds subtle color and shows the most wood grain.

Before applying wood sealer, use deck cleaner to remove contaminants like dirt, oil and mildew. The wood surface should be completely dry before sealing, so it’s best to wait at least 48 hours after rain or cleaning. The air temperature should be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit during and for 48 hours after application. For best results, follow all instructions on the product.

2. Consider your concrete surfaces

Although you might think concrete is indestructible, over time, weather conditions can take a toll. Waterproofed walkways and patios are stronger and last longer — reducing the need for costly maintenance and repairs.

Especially in climates experiencing freezing and thawing, waterproofing safeguards against moisture and helps prevent cracks. Waterproofing also helps protect against oil stains and other spills. Well-maintained concrete looks better, with minimal effects from weathering, fading, cracking, fungus and mold growth.

How to waterproof concrete

The length of protection varies depending on where you live. You can perform the “splash test” once a year to see if reapplication is necessary.

Choose a high-quality multi-surface waterproofer that can tackle exterior waterproofing needs including concrete. As with wood sealer, the surface and air temperature should be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit during and for 48 hours after application. Concrete should be thoroughly cleaned and dry for 72 hours before applying sealer.

Concrete with a smooth, flat finish must be opened first, using a concrete etch product. Follow instructions carefully for using and removing the etching product, as well as the concrete sealer.

3. Protect brick and masonry

With brick or masonry (including stone), waterproofing helps protect it from environmental damage over time. Due to their porous nature, bricks are susceptible to water damage, including cracking or spalling (flaking or chipping due to subsurface cracks). Waterproofing also protects against mold.

How to waterproof brick and masonry

The length of protection from waterproofing will vary, depending on your climate. As with concrete, perform the “splash test” once a year to see if reapplication is necessary.

Use a high-quality, multi-surface waterproofer designed for exterior surfaces like brick. Your brick or masonry should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before applying sealer, and the outside temperature must be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Read and follow application instructions on your product.

4. Safeguard outdoor fabrics

If you use fabric elements for your outdoor spaces including cushions, pillows, umbrellas, canopies or shade sails, you’ll want to keep them looking great as long as possible. Waterproofing fabric helps prevent water damage and reduces color fading from the sun. It can also repel spills and stains, while allowing fabric to breathe.

How to waterproof fabrics

Reapply waterproofing annually, after every cleaning, and use a waterproofer designed for fabrics. First try a small patch, as waterproofer can darken fabric, and apply only on colorfast fabrics. Fabric must be clean and dry before applying waterproofer. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s care and warranty information before using on furniture and follow all product instructions carefully.

Caring for outdoor surfaces is crucial for maintaining your home’s appearance and value. Waterproofing helps keep all the elements of your home’s exterior — and the outdoor spaces you love — looking beautiful for years to come.

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Navigating Infertility: Key Insights, Support and Resources for Couples Trying to Conceive

2024-05-31T14:01:01

(BPT) – Couples yearning to start a family often face numerous challenges, including financial worries, health concerns and fears about potential problems during pregnancy and birth. One significant challenge that many couples may not anticipate is infertility.

According to a recent survey, 77% of U.S. women aged 25-34 who have been trying to conceive over the last 12 months did not think about their ability to get pregnant until after they decided to try to conceive. In the survey that was commissioned by First Response in collaboration with RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, a majority (57%) didn’t realize how long it would take to get pregnant, and almost 2 in 5 women trying to conceive (38%) wish they knew how much conflicting information there was before attempting to get pregnant.

For many couples, the challenge to conceive is even more difficult if they live in a “support desert” — an area where health care resources and infertility support are not available. This most often includes rural communities, where distance creates one problem, but the local health care infrastructure itself can be inadequate to meet the needs of young families. The survey revealed that over 2 in 5 women trying to conceive (42%) do not have local access to infertility support groups and treatment. That number climbs to 62% for rural women who feel they have inadequate access, amplifying their sense of isolation and frustration. Additionally, 41% simply don’t know what resources are available.

Beyond facing limited or nonexistent resources, many couples feel a stigma around discussing infertility, accompanied by shame, embarrassment or a belief that they are at fault. While over half of those surveyed have talked to friends (57%) or family members (56%), only 42% have spoken to a health care provider, 24% discussed their journey to pregnancy with a mental health expert, and only 16% sought a support group.

The importance of information and resources

Access to adequate information, support and resources is crucial for couples trying to conceive. In the survey, a staggering 93% of women said they believe at least three misconceptions about trying to get pregnant when given a knowledge test about common facts regarding pregnancy.

Expanding support and getting the word out about resources is crucial. Women with access to local infertility support groups and treatments are more than twice as likely to use these resources (21% versus 10% without access). In addition, women with access to infertility support groups and treatment in their area report being more likely to reach out to family members (59%) or health care and mental health providers (56%) than those without local options.

What couples can do

For those living in rural communities and other support deserts, it’s vital to be proactive by seeking out care, advocating for your well-being and creating a support structure if you can’t find one. Couples living in support deserts can:

  • Seek out community outreach programs: Contact your nearest health care facilities and social service programs to ask about resources.
  • Access telemedicine platforms: Ask health care clinics and hospitals in your state if they can provide remote consultations and support.
  • Join or establish in-person/remote support groups: If you can’t locate support groups near you, start one — or consider joining or creating a remote support group to share experiences, information and resources with others going through infertility. RESOLVE.org is home to several resources that empower, educate and equip couples to help address roadblocks in conceiving, including free support groups.
  • Advocate for yourself and others: Destigmatizing infertility is key. Speak out, educate others and encourage open and supportive dialogue within your community. Join The Pregnancy Hub by First Response™, a community created to help connect and inspire those navigating trying to conceive.

Survey Methodology: The survey was conducted by Wakefield Research among 1,000 U.S. women, ages 25-34, who have been trying to conceive over the past 12 months, “Trying to Conceive” defined as trying to get pregnant either naturally or with assistance, between March 27 and April 7, 2024, using an email invitation and an online survey.

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5 money-saving strategies to beat the inflation blues

2024-05-31T16:05:00

(BPT) – The rising cost of goods and services across the U.S. has many Americans feeling financial stress. While you can’t directly influence the inflation rate, you can find ways to reduce your spending on things like insurance, groceries, your phone, gas and streaming services. Check out these five money-saving strategies that can help you beat inflation.

1. Shop around for the best insurance deals

When was the last time you shopped around for car, renters’ and home insurance? If it’s been a while, carve out time to search for a better deal. Most importantly, don’t settle for the first quote you receive. According to a ValuePenguin survey, nearly three-quarters of Americans have shopped around for insurance, and many have saved money as a result.

Also, many companies allow you to bundle car and home or renters’ insurance for a discount. In fact, you could save an average of 18% by bundling your home and auto policies.

2. Switch up your phone plan for savings

If you’ve been with the same phone plan for a while, it might be time to explore other options. Many phone plan providers offer competitive rates and deals to new customers who make the switch.

Keep in mind that you shouldn’t just switch to any plan. Pick a carrier that will help you save AND treat you well. For example, Metro by T-Mobile — the leader in prepaid — has debuted its Metro Flex plan. New customers can receive a free 5G phone when they join, and they’ll get the same great deals as new customers in as soon as 12 months when they trade in their phones.

Most phone providers only give you a free phone when you join. That’s what sets Metro Flex apart; they take care of existing customers. Additionally, Metro Flex customers can get benefits like Google One 100GB, free stuff and deals every week through T-Mobile Tuesdays, unlimited texts to 210+ countries and destinations and Amazon Prime included (a savings of $14.99/month) with the Metro Flex Plus plan.

Metro is the first and only prepaid wireless plan that gives new and existing customers the same fair treatment. To learn more, visit MetroByT-Mobile.com/MetroFlex.

3. Choose generic brands at the grocery store

If you want to cut your grocery bill, opt for generic brands instead of name brands. You’ll be surprised at how much you can save without sacrificing quality.

Consumer Reports found that 76% of generic food items tasted as good as their brand-name counterparts. How much can you save by switching to generic? The report found that depending on the food item, the generic brand cost as much as 72% less per serving than name brands.

4. Embrace alternative transportation methods

In April alone, gasoline increased by 2.8%. Fuel costs can add up quickly if you commute to work or school. However, you can save on fuel costs by using alternative forms of transportation. According to the American Public Transportation Association, riders can save more than $13,000 a year by using public transit.

Aside from public transit, you can also consider biking, walking or carpooling with friends or neighbors. You can even use a combination of these transportation methods to save and get to where you want to go.

5. Bundle up your subscriptions

How many streaming subscriptions do you pay for? According to Forbes, the average American spends $46 per month on streaming services. That may not seem like a high number, but it can quickly add up over time.

While you could cancel subscriptions, an easier and more convenient way to save while still enjoying entertainment is to look for bundles. Just like with car and home insurance, bundling streaming subscriptions can give you a discount.

You may even already have access to a subscription service and may be paying double. If you’re a Metro Flex Plus customer, you get access to Amazon Prime as part of your plan. That’s a savings of $14.99 per month!

Prime members enjoy exceptional value with access to Amazon’s fast and free delivery, enormous selection, exclusive deals and shopping events, savings across health care, prescriptions and groceries, as well as movies, books, games, photo storage and more.

Saving money doesn’t have to be difficult. Use these five tips and see how much you can save. Remember, every dollar counts!

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5 Ways Local Broadband Providers Are Boosting Small Business Success

2024-05-31T08:01:00

(BPT) – Small businesses have a significant impact on their customers and surrounding communities. In the U.S. alone, there are more than 33 million small businesses that employ almost half of America’s private sector workforce. These businesses play a vital role in local communities, driving economic activity and employment. When small businesses thrive, their communities thrive, too.

However, these businesses face many challenges. Small business owners do not have the resources to manage their networks or tackle technology issues. They need increasingly more sophisticated IT solutions but don’t have a dedicated IT staff to support them. Choosing the right broadband solutions to support their business is critical to success.

Increasingly, local broadband service providers (BSPs) with a vision to foster economic growth in their communities are bridging this gap by offering managed services tailored for small businesses – services that extend far beyond just fast Wi-Fi. For example, recent broadband innovation from Calix (a leading cloud technology company for the broadband industry) enables BSPs to serve more small businesses with a purpose-built broadband solution that meets their unique needs. These small business services include enhanced security measures and cybersecurity reporting across four dedicated networks – business, point-of-sale, staff and customer – to enable small business owners to safeguard their critical online activities.

SCTelcom in Kansas, RTC Networks in North Dakota, and DirectLink in Oregon are examples of BSPs delivering these services to support the success of local small businesses. SCTelcom is attracting more opportunity and generating economic vitality in south-central Kansas, while DirectLink and RTC Networks are reinforcing their positions as the preferred BSP for small businesses in their regions.

Small business owners rely on their BSPs to be dependable technology partners, helping them maintain the safety and security essential to their success. In honor of Small Business Month, Calix offers five ways BSPs can enable small businesses in their communities to thrive.

1. Robust network-level security

In the U.S., cyberattacks are on the rise and should be top of mind for companies of all sizes. According to 60% of small businesses, cybersecurity is a primary concern. Last year, more than 3,200 data breaches were reported. In addition, 51% of small businesses have no cybersecurity measures in place and 85% of ransomware attacks targeted small businesses in 2023. A report from IBM found that smaller organizations are increasingly impacted by data breaches, with the resulting financial burden increasing by 13% from 2022 to 2023. Research indicates that 95% of cybersecurity incidents can cost small businesses up to $653,587 due to downtime, lost business, emergency solutions, legal, and regulatory fines.

While these facts may be scary, small businesses can protect themselves with robust network-level security. BSPs offer comprehensive security measures to protect critical business systems and data, including integrated firewalls, isolated business, staff, guest, point-of-sale networks, intrusion alerts, content filtering and reporting of blocked threats.

2. Secure network access control

Network access controls are policies, procedures, protocols, tools and applications that define, regulate and restrict what an individual or entity can do on one’s network. To protect against internal and external threats, small businesses need segmented networks for employees, customers, and business systems. Each segmented network should have tailored authentication and security policies to ensure data protection and regulatory compliance.

3. Network resilience

Most people have experienced network problems at home. While those issues can be frustrating and inconvenient, they can cause severe problems when it comes to running a business. Network problems create downtime, which can be catastrophic for small businesses.

Local BSPs deliver uninterrupted connectivity and continuous operations to small businesses in their communities, minimizing potential losses during network disruptions.

4. Simplified staff network management

Regardless of the number of employees, small businesses need to manage network access for staff effectively. Seamless network onboarding and offboarding processes for employees and insights into employee productivity can enhance operational efficiency and improve network security, saving time, money, and headaches for small business owners.

5. Enhanced customer experiences

Providing guests with Wi-Fi connectivity is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity for attracting and retaining customers. Small businesses can improve customer experience and satisfaction by offering secure Wi-Fi, driving loyalty and increasing spending.

Finding the right broadband service provider for small businesses

Depending on the BSP that services their community, small business owners will find different levels and implementations of cybersecurity, network safety and productivity tools.

Calix SmartBiz enables BPS to offer a variety of features that help small businesses improve productivity, secure important online activities, and delight their customers with safe, secure Wi-Fi that holds up to the most demanding streaming services. As a result, small business owners can focus on doing what they do best, not tackling complicated IT issues.

Small business owners should talk with their internet providers about deploying SmartBiz or contact SCTelcom, RTC Networks or DirectLink to learn how they’re supporting the success of small businesses in their communities.

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5 Things Previvors Should Know

2024-05-31T05:01:00

(BPT) – 1. “Previvor” means a “survivor of a predisposition to cancer.”

Previvors are people who have an elevated risk, but who have never been diagnosed with cancer.

The term includes people with an inherited mutation that increases their cancer risk, a family history of cancer or some other factor that increases risk. Like cancer survivors, previvors must navigate many medical decisions. They benefit from support and resources to help them stay as healthy as possible.

The nonprofit hereditary cancer organization Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE) coined the term in 2000 in response to a challenge by a FORCE member who posted, “I need a label!”

2. Genetic testing can help people understand their cancer risk.

Lab tech looking at a vial of blood containing genetic material.

The most well-known genes linked to cancer are BRCA1 and BRCA2. Mutations in these genes increase the risk for breast, fallopian tube, ovarian, pancreatic and prostate cancer. People of any race or ethnicity can have one of these inherited mutations. About one out of every 400 people has a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. These mutations are more prevalent in certain groups. For example, about one in 40 people of Eastern European (Ashkenazi) Jewish ancestry has a mutation.

Dozens of other genes are linked to an increased risk for cancer. Lynch syndrome, although less well known than BRCA1 and BRCA2, is more common. About one out of every 280 people has a Lynch syndrome mutation. Lynch syndrome is caused by a mutation in one of five genes (EPCAM, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2). People with Lynch syndrome have an increased risk for colorectal, endometrial, ovarian and other cancers. Inherited mutations in ATM, BRIP1, CDH1, CHEK2, PALB2, RAD51C, RAD51D and other genes are also associated with increased cancer risk.

A single genetic test of blood or saliva can look for mutations in the genes mentioned above and more. Today, testing is quick, easy and often covered by insurance. But testing isn’t always straightforward. It’s important to speak with an expert, known as a genetic counselor, before you are tested.

3. Being aware of your risk could save your life.

Previvors have medical options to manage their cancer risks, including:

  • enhanced screening (getting screened sooner or more often) to find cancer early, at its most treatable stage.
  • medications and lifestyle changes to lower cancer risk.
  • risk-reducing surgery.
  • research studies that are testing new ways to manage risk.

Research shows that people with inherited mutations who take preventive actions live longer. The first step to protecting yourself is knowing your risk for cancer. Guidelines for risk management are different for each gene, so it’s important to see a genetic counselor to understand your options.

4. Up to 90% of previvors do not know they have inherited a mutation that increases their cancer risk.

Most people are unaware of their risk for cancer. People who know about their inherited mutation before a cancer diagnosis can take steps to reduce their risk or increase their chance of catching cancer at an early, more treatable stage. This is why it is important for people to know their family medical history and to share their health information with relatives.

  • FORCE’s brochure, The Genes Between Us, is a comprehensive guide to talking with relatives about inherited cancer risk.
  • Susan G. Komen has great information and a tool for collecting your family history of cancer.
  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a page with tips and stories to help you have a conversation with your relatives about cancer in the family.

5. Previvors don’t have to go it alone.

Support for previvors is just a click away. Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE) is an advocacy organization with dedicated resources for previvors. The Bring Your Brave campaign from the CDC shares uplifting stories and resources for previvors.