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Do the math: Buying a home now may be more affordable and save some cash

2020-06-04T09:01:00

(BPT) – At a time when the strength of the U.S. economy and personal finance is on most renters’ minds, low down payment mortgage options are more appealing than ever. With mortgage interest rates being at historic lows, it is possible to qualify for a home loan while keeping a rainy day fund.

Private mortgage insurance (MI) has been around for decades and helped over 1.3 million homebuyers last year. It is a temporary cost that allows for a down payment as small as 3% of the purchase price. While some borrowers wait until they save 20% for a down payment, the added years of saving can translate to higher interest rates and more expensive home prices.

“Renters who are on the hunt to buy should do the math and consider what is best for them, because many times they will find that buying with a low down payment insured mortgage is in their best interest. It may enable them to attain homeownership sooner than they otherwise could, which helps them take advantage of historic low rates and keep some of their savings intact,” said Lindsey Johnson, President of U.S. Mortgage Insurers (USMI).

If you are one of these renters looking to buy your first home but don’t have 20% down, don’t worry, you are not alone. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median down payment in 2019 was 6% for first-time buyers.

It is true you can qualify for a conventional mortgage with a down payment as small as 3% of the purchase price. In today’s market, it could take a family earning the national median income up to 21 years to save 20%, according to calculations by USMI.

How can buying now save you money later?

Consider you want to purchase a $275,000 home. When you account for closing costs (about 3% of the sales price), a 5% down payment is $13,750 versus $63,250 in cash for 20% down. With a 740 credit score at today’s MI rates, your monthly MI payment would be about $115, which is added to your monthly mortgage payment until the MI can be cancelled. MI typically cancels after five years.

With home price appreciation, today’s $275,000 home will likely cost more in the years ahead. This will also have an impact on the necessary down payment and length of time required to save for it. There are other variables in the equation too, such as interest rates. As interest rates rise, so too will the cost of mortgage financing.

Not all MI is the same. Importantly, so-called “FHA Loans” are government-backed loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration versus a private insurer. These mortgages require a slightly higher down payment, the insurance is permanent, and the monthly premiums generally cannot be cancelled.

Make sure you do the math. There are many online mortgage calculators that can help. Check out lowdownpaymentfacts.org to learn more.


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5 ways to go green and stay comfortable at home

2020-06-03T13:55:00

(BPT) – Paid Content by Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc.

Taking steps to live a greener lifestyle at home not only can help protect the environment, but it can improve the comfort in your home and help save money, too. According to a study conducted by the Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI), 41% of Americans want to buy green products for their home. Strategic home feature upgrades and smart habits can help save on utility bills, reduce your water and carbon footprints, and potentially benefit your budget long term.

We have all found ourselves with a little more time at home recently and may have time for some small DIY projects. Fortunately, green home improvements don’t have to be difficult. Here are five ideas to make your home more sustainable and help save money:

1. Install a rain water barrel

Watering a lawn and garden is essential to the health of the landscape, but running water for hours at a time can be costly and unsustainable. One alternative is investing in a rain barrel. A rain barrel can be purchased at a reasonable price and stores rain water to use later when watering your landscape. Some cities and counties even offer discounted rain barrels to residents to encourage water conservation, so call your local municipality to learn about potential options.

2. Use a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat works by automatically raising or lowering the temperature in your house based on your selected settings to keep it comfortable when you’re home and save energy when you’re not. Smart thermostats are enhanced versions of programmable thermostats that can learn your habits and be controlled remotely from an app. With either option, you could potentially save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7 to 10 degrees F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

3. Use natural light and update bulbs

The natural light that comes into a home does not cost any money, so it is a perfect source to naturally light up a room. Not only does this save on energy costs, the sunshine may boost your mood. On darker days and in the evening, turn on ENERGY STAR® certified light bulbs that can save up to 90% in energy consumption when compared to standard bulbs. Using less energy is better for the environment and for the wallet, so use electric lights only when needed and turn them off every time you leave a room.

ENERGY STAR and the ENERGY STAR mark are registered trademarks owned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

4. Upgrade to energy-efficient windows, appliances or HVAC System

Making energy-efficient home upgrades often requires an investment, but these upgrades can potentially increase your home’s value. For example, installing new energy-efficient windows or appliances or heating and cooling systems that use less energy could increase the value of your home. To help fund certain qualifying home improvements in select areas, Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance offers its Home Upgrade loan program, or “HUG” financing. “Home owners deserve the opportunity to upgrade or repair their current home without draining their savings,” says Eric Hamilton, president of Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc. “The HUG loan program gives qualified applicants* a chance to responsibly upgrade their home, whether you’re planning energy-efficiency upgrades or tackling an emergency repair.”

5. Use green cleaning supplies

Natural and eco-friendly cleaning supplies do not use harmful chemicals, which is better for your local water supply and is a great option when cleaning surfaces your family uses often. There are many cleaning supply alternatives that are available at local retail stores that contain less potentially harmful chemicals, or you might consider making your own cleaners at home. Pantry staples like baking soda, distilled white vinegar and lemon juice are common ingredients for creating DIY cleaners that are better for the environment and often cost just pennies to make.

Whether it’s taking a small step like changing to energy-efficient light bulbs or a bigger step like financing energy-efficient home improvements with Vanderbilt’s HUG loan program, you should feel proud that you’re making a positive impact on the environment and its future. The energy savings and potential lower utility costs are a welcomed benefit of your sustainability efforts at home.

*All Loans Subject to Credit Approval. Not all applicants will qualify. Subject to state regulation. This advertisement is for Consumer Loans. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license.

Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc. 500 Alcoa Trail, Maryville, TN 37804, 865-380-3000


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Finding unity under the American flag during COVID-19

2020-06-03T11:31:00

(BPT) – Some moments are etched in our national memory — and the American flag stands at the center of them. Six U.S. Marines raising the flag over Iwo Jima during World War II. Buzz Aldrin saluting the flag on the moon’s surface in 1969. Three New York firefighters hoisting the flag above the rubble of the World Trade Center after 9/11. The American flag is an icon that unites us all.

Every year, on June 14, Americans have the opportunity to honor this national symbol. Flag Day, which commemorates the day the U.S. flag was first adopted, June 14, 1777, serves as a timeless reminder of the nation’s shared freedom and solidarity, and all those who protect us. This year, like many times in history, the Stars and Stripes are proving their strength in fighting a new and invisible enemy — COVID-19.

As the pandemic has threatened the lives of America’s most vulnerable populations, the flag has been a vital part of the nation’s response — appearing in the windows of people’s homes, marking miles of neighborhood and city streets, adorning the storefronts of businesses everywhere. One story tells of a man who began carrying it on his runs as a means to honor frontline workers and inspire those who saw him.

Across these examples, the sight of the flag brings the service and sacrifice of military service members into clear view. All those who work, fight and give of themselves tirelessly to the safety and security of this nation and every citizen. The flag’s use as a sign of unity during this challenging time is the ultimate expression of this country’s freedoms.

“When our troops are deployed, the image that unites them in their mission is our flag standing tall and waving free,” says American Legion Auxiliary National Americanism Committee Chair Denise Conrad. “Our flag stands for justice, freedom and democracy — the cornerstones of Americanism and patriotism.”

The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) seeks to advocate for veterans and their families and on military issues, and to provide opportunities for Americans to demonstrate their love of country and patriotism. Through learning opportunities and educational resources, the ALA provides people with tools to become engaged, proud citizens who make a positive impact for the benefit of veterans and their country. Across the organization, members find ways to support and promote the American flag as an icon of democracy — distributing pocket flags to troops overseas, donating flags to local schools and businesses and participating in the Citizens Flag Alliance.

This Flag Day, as you proudly display your American flag and show your appreciation for all it represents, remember these simple U.S. Flag Code rules:

  • When hoisting or lowering the flag, salute or place a hand over your heart.
  • The flag should not be displayed on rainy days unless it is an all­-purpose flag.
  • When lowered, the flag should never touch anything beneath it.
  • When a flag is tattered or torn, it has served its useful purpose and “should be destroyed, preferably by burning.” Many American Legion posts conduct disposal of unserviceable flag ceremonies on June 14, Flag Day. Such ceremonies are particularly dignified and solemn occasions for the retirement of unserviceable flags.

The American flag is a symbol of solidarity and comfort — particularly for those who have risked their lives defending their country. No matter the nature of the challenges faced — from unseen threats to visible dangers — the flag stands in tribute to all those who are on the frontlines protecting freedoms and to the spirit and the resilience of the American people.

For more information on how you can volunteer, join or donate to the American Legion Auxiliary, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org.


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Finding Strength in Weakness: Living with Myasthenia Gravis

2020-06-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – “I tell people it feels like when you’re drunk, but without the alcohol. So that means you can’t see straight, you can’t walk straight, you can’t talk. You’re wobbly and all over the place. That’s how I feel when I am having a myasthenia gravis flare up.”

Leah Gaitan-Diaz was 40 years old when she was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis (MG), a rare, chronic neuromuscular autoimmune disease that causes debilitating and potentially life-threatening muscle weakness.1 Though her four-year experience with MG has come with many challenges — including lack of understanding and support from some of the people in her life, leaving her job as a store manager and seeking permanent disability — Leah is raising her voice and sharing her MG story to help others with this disease know they are not alone.

Affecting approximately 60,000 people in the United States, MG begins with the immune system, which is supposed to protect the body from foreign substances. In MG patients, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy proteins in skeletal muscles and weakens the signals from nerves to muscles, causing muscle weakness and fatigue.1-5 The most commonly affected muscles are those of the eyes and eyelids, the face, and upper arms and limbs.2 This can lead to difficulty seeing, chewing and swallowing, among other muscular actions. In severe cases, patients may experience a “myasthenic crisis,” which happens when the muscles necessary for breathing stop functioning.

“Women can become fatigued from our menstrual cycles, so when I told my doctor I was feeling fatigued, they said it was normal,” said Leah. “It’s not normal.”

People who have MG are often faced with misconceptions about their illness. Since MG is a rare disease, patients may feel isolated or disconnected from the world. While friends and family may never feel what they feel, they can try to understand.

This led argenx, an immunology company developing medicines for patients suffering from severe autoimmune diseases like MG, to create MG United, a platform for information, resources and online community engagement for patients and supporters affected by MG to come together, empathize, and be empowered to share their stories. MG United will feature patient and supporter stories, videos, and host virtual events to assure those within the MG community they are not alone.

If the face and throat muscles are impacted, MG can hinder a patient’s ability to speak.2 MG United offers a platform for patients like Leah to share their stories and be the voices for those who may be struggling to speak.

Today, Leah shares hope for others who have been diagnosed with MG. “Everything happens for a reason. Looking for that reason is going to take time, but just take it one day at a time. Life is too short. We should be happy, and everything will be okay. It’s easier said than done. But it’s true.”

To learn more about MG and the patient experience, visit MG-United.com.

References

  1. Howard, J. Clinical Overview of MG. Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America. 2015. https://myasthenia.org/For-Professionals/Clinical-Overview-of-MG. Accessed May 2020.
  2. Myasthenia Gravis. National Organization for Rare Disorders. 2017. https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/myasthenia-gravis/. Accessed May 2020.
  3. Chaplin. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;(2 Suppl 2):S3-23.
  4. Hoch et al. Nat. Med. 2001;7:365-368.
  5. Gilhus. N Engl J Med. 2016;375:2570-81.


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4 smart steps to manage cat allergens at home

2020-06-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – As millions of Americans spend unprecedented amounts of time at home, it also means spending unprecedented amounts of time with their pets. And for cat owners who have sensitivities to cat allergens, this can create unforeseen challenges.

According to a recent study by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute and Purina Pro Plan, three in four cat owners say their relationship with their cat is a core part of their health and well-being. However, 26% of households with cat allergen sensitivities also stated that cat allergens have caused huge problems in their life.

Having a cat shouldn’t mean choosing between enjoying time with them and living a healthy, full life. Fortunately, there are steps cat owners can take to help manage cat allergens at home.

Step 1: Vacuum and dust regularly

It’s best to vacuum carpet at least twice a week, according to the Carpet and Rug Institute. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to help capture higher levels of allergens. Make sure to focus on spaces where cats play and lay frequently, including below furniture and the furniture itself. This ensures even those cozy corners get clean and don’t become a hot spot for allergens.

Hard flooring such as tile, wood and laminate should be cleaned regularly as well to eliminate dust and dander. Vacuum on the low setting to get the suction closest to the hard flooring. Don’t forget spaces such as the litter box area because dust from litter can contribute to airborne allergens. Additionally, wet mop at least once a month to more fully clean hard flooring in your home.

Keep in mind, even though your pet can’t reach some surfaces physically doesn’t mean their allergens won’t get there. Microscopic allergens can float through the air and land virtually anywhere, so dust surfaces high and low with a damp rag or microfiber cloth to capture these particles and remove them from the home.

Step 2: Update your cat’s diet

Many people think that cat hair itself is the allergen, but it’s actually what’s on it that is problematic — the major cat allergen called Fel d 1, a protein that cats produce naturally in their saliva. When cats groom themselves, the Fel d 1 is transferred to the hair and skin through saliva. The allergen eventually lands in the environment as the cat’s hair and dander shed naturally.

Following a decade of research, Purina has introduced Pro Plan LiveClear, the first and only cat food that reduces the allergens in cat hair and dander. Instead of trying to manage the allergen once it’s already in the environment, the allergen is neutralized at its source in the cat’s mouth. When cats eat the food, the key ingredient — a specific protein sourced from eggs — binds to Fel d 1 and safely neutralizes it. In a published study, the food was shown to reduce the allergens in cat hair and dander by an average of 47%, starting in the third week of daily feeding. Learn more at www.proplanliveclear.com.

Step 3: Groom and brush your cat

An important step in managing allergens at the source is to keep your pet clean. Regularly groom or brush your cat, particularly if they are prone to matted hair. The act of grooming reduces loose hair and thereby reduces the overall allergen load. Some types of brushes will groom and massage at the same time, so once acclimated, many cats enjoy the massage, which can potentially help reduce some stress or anxiety.

Step 4: Wash household items

The next step is to stay on top of cleaning household items. For example, bedding and blankets make a warm bed for pets and therefore harbor a multitude of allergens. Be sure to wash all sheets, blankets and pillowcases in hot water at a minimum of 130 F to remove allergens and kill other triggers such as dust mites, according to the Mayo Clinic. Consider making a habit of washing bedding and blankets weekly to remove allergens from your home.

By combining these allergen management strategies, cat owners can better handle their current situations and be closer together with the cats they love.


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How to stop wasting perfectly good water down the drain

2020-06-02T17:27:46

(BPT) – What happens when you turn on the shower? In the typical North American home, cold water comes pouring out. Because this is a shock to the body, most people make it a habit to run the shower for a few minutes before getting in.

Meanwhile, you might do something else as the water warms. In fact, there are probably times you have gotten distracted and forgotten about your shower. Whether it’s for a few minutes or much longer, this is a lot of potable water just running down the drain, and it is costing you money.

Fortunately, there is a growing home improvement trend that eliminates this problem: hot water recirculation using tankless water heater systems.

Why does it take so long to get hot water?

A typical American home wastes thousands of gallons of perfectly usable water down the drain annually due to lengthy wait times at hot-water outlets in the bath and kitchen. This experience is common when showering and bathing, as well as when you turn on faucets.

This happens because when you use warm water, the remaining water in the pipes does not return to the water heater for reheating. Instead, it stays in the pipes and eventually turns cold. This chilly water needs to be pushed out and is what you feel before new hot water from the water heater is delivered when you turn the knob.

Why doesn’t this happen at hotels?

This same experience doesn’t typically happen in hotels, where you enjoy hot water near instantaneously. That’s because commercial properties like hotels know that many people want to use hot water at similar times and expect this convenience, so they have a special pump constantly run with a dedicated circulation line of water connected to each room. That always puts hot water right where it’s needed. Also, in a hotel, the distance between the farthest shower and the hot-water source is so great, the wait and the consequent waste and cost would be enormous.

What’s the solution for residential properties? More homeowners desire this convenience and are installing a hot-water recirculation system, which allows you to enjoy the convenience of hot water on demand while also reducing your water footprint, helping save money on utility bills.

The many benefits of hot water recirculation

Today’s homeowner often has a high desire for comfort while being mindful of the environment, which makes it no surprise that hot-water recirculation is a growing home improvement trend.

The NRCR Residential Condensing Tankless Water Heater from Noritz uses a built-in pump to keep hot water close to even the farthest outlet in the home, minimizing the wait and, therefore, the waste of unused potable water down the drain. Whether you want to replace your water heating system with a modern tankless option or add a crossover valve that retrofits to your existing system, it offers several options for different plumbing configurations. As a result, hot water is always available in whatever part of the house you need it.

Some homes have a pre-built pipe loop that is ready to add a pump to work in conjunction with your water heater. If your home doesn’t have this dedicated return line, you can install a crossover valve at the farthest fixture of your home.

Alternatively, homeowners may decide to replace their systems with tankless options. With tankless systems, the hot-water circulation pump is fully integrated into the tankless water heater. This technology operates only when there is demand to bring hot water to you, which saves even more energy.

These systems are more affordable than ever. Federal tax credits combined with possible rebates from local or state governments can drive the price down significantly.

Smart technology for a smart home

In addition to providing on-demand hot water and reducing water waste, the NRCR technology learns how and when you use hot water. The new learning mode records habits over time based on your daily use and will turn on the recirculation pump only when you need it, meaning your system is efficient as well as convenient. You can also set your own schedule to your lifestyle needs if you choose.

If you’re done with the unpleasant stream of cold water every time you want to shower, you might want to consider tankless hot-water recirculation systems that also reduce water waste. Learn more at www.noritz.com/nrcr.


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5 ways to help prevent home cyberattacks

2020-06-02T17:37:53

(BPT) – Being home 100% of the time has become the new norm for many Americans, as social distancing is implemented in communities across the country to slow the rapidly spreading COVID-19 pandemic. Connected devices are being used virtually nonstop, as the homebound stream shows to binge watch and video chat with friends to help pass the time. Unfortunately, most residential computing networks aren’t regularly maintained and monitored to protect against security breaches. This presents hackers with a virtual playground of which to take advantage.

“Cybercriminals are continuously looking for ways to exploit computer system vulnerabilities and home networks are popular targets because so many of our devices — phones, TVs, computers, even appliances — are connected to them,” said Jane Li, Mercury Insurance director of product management. “Insurance companies provide solutions to help financially protect homeowners and renters if they fall victim to a cyberattack. There are also steps they can take ahead of time to help prevent one from happening in the first place.”

Following are five tips to protect your home network — and the devices connected to it — from hackers.

1. Power down your devices. This disables the internet connection, cutting off access to any personal information stored on your computer, tablet or phone. Unattended machines are easy targets for hackers, especially if you’re asleep.

2. Secure your wireless network. Information accessed on an open network, including email passwords and sensitive bank information, is fair game for hackers. Don’t make their jobs easier — protect your Wi-Fi network with a strong password that’s difficult to guess. Wireless routers that are issued by cable providers are typically assigned a network name and password that’s easily located on a label on the device itself. These can be changed using your online account, so do this as soon as possible for added security.

3. Invest in anti-malware software. Malware — or malicious software — can be installed on your computer without your knowledge so hackers can damage your system, steal personal information or restrict your access to extort money from you. Anti-malware software helps protect against, detect and remove malware, stopping cybercriminals from doing further damage. Also, avoid downloading music or video files from suspicious websites, and clicking on links or email attachments in messages sent from unknown senders to help prevent malware from infiltrating your system.

4. Install recommended updates. Smartphone, computer, tablet and smart TV manufacturers, among other providers of connected devices, offer periodic software updates to protect against potential security breaches. Chances are, if an update is recommended, hackers have already discovered a way to access your personal property and information, so keep your software up to date. Set your devices to install auto-updates when possible.

5. Beware of phishing scams. Phishing scams aren’t new, but hackers continually use more sophisticated email — and even text messages — to trick people into providing their personal information. Once again, do not click on the links or attachments in messages from unknown senders.

Li suggests homeowners and renters consider adding Home Cyber Protection to their existing policies as an additional way to protect against hackers. “Even the most vigilant individuals can experience a cybersecurity breach,” said Li. “Having coverage to help recoup financial losses that are brought on by cyberextortion or stolen personal information can offer peace of mind during an otherwise stressful time.”


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4 tips to prevent costly damage to your home

2020-06-02T17:44:05

(BPT) – The sounds of birds chirping, longer daylight hours, and blooming trees and flowers are signs that warmer weather is on the way. That means more time outside to enjoy nature, but it’s also a sign it might be time for a little maintenance as summer heats up.

“Now’s the time to check for potential home repairs and maintenance,” said Christopher O’Rourke, Mercury Insurance vice president of property claims. “Minor home repairs can get your home in tip-top shape so you can enjoy it throughout the rest of the year.”

Here are four tips O’Rourke recommends to save some money down the road.

1. Clean your gutters.

Gutters collect debris over time, especially when rain, snow and wind cause twigs, pine needles and leaves to settle on your roof and in your rain gutters. Accumulated debris can create blockages that direct water into the home or, in areas without much precipitation, can act as kindling in the event of a fire. Buildup also allows mildew and mold to develop, which can slowly decay a home’s exterior and roof.

“Preventable damage like mold or mildew that develops and rots a home’s exterior isn’t covered by homeowners insurance,” said O’Rourke. “It’s important to routinely clean out gutters — even if you have gutter guards installed, they don’t completely protect against debris building up eventually. An hour or two spent cleaning or checking your gutters is time well spent compared to the alternative.”

2. Trim branches and remove dangerous trees.

Thunderstorm frequency picks up in summer months, and high winds can occur year round, so it’s best to get a jump on tree maintenance. Regularly trimming tree branches reduces their chance of breaking during a storm, which could cause power outages or property damage.

“Properly trimmed branches present a lower risk of falling onto your home, power lines or possibly injuring someone on your property,” said O’Rourke. “Also, in areas that are prone to wildfires, trimmed trees create a buffer zone to help lower the chances of flames easily jumping onto your roof.”

Consider having the trees on your property inspected by an arborist to determine their health and have diseased trees removed before they topple over unexpectedly. Removal costs vary depending on height and difficulty but range from $100 to around $1,800. These preventative costs are not covered by your homeowners policy but can be a wise investment that saves you time, money and anxiety.

3. Watch out for service lines.

Homeowners who want to plant gardens, trees or install additional landscape features to enhance their outdoor living space should be aware of potential underground utility lines. Most service lines — a network of exterior, underground utility lines or pipes that supply a home with electricity, gas, water and sewer functions — are only buried a few inches beneath the ground. Accidentally hitting one when digging can result in loss of service, expensive repairs or a serious injury.

If a break to a service line happens on a homeowner’s property, special machinery may be needed to excavate pipes from beneath the ground, which may require digging under your home, garden or driveway. The homeowner is responsible for repair or replacement costs, and this damage can be inconvenient, expensive and isn’t covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy.

“The average cost to repair a break to a service line is about $5,000 and most Americans wouldn’t welcome such a large surprise bill,” said O’Rourke. “Homeowners should definitely consider purchasing an endorsement to their insurance policy to protect against losses of this nature.”

To be safe, homeowners should call 811 before digging so the utility companies can send a locator to mark the approximate locations of underground service lines.

4. Service your air conditioning unit.

Regular maintenance of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is essential to ensure the equipment is in proper working order, which can save money on energy bills, as well as protect against expensive repair and replacement costs.

“No one wants to unexpectedly find themselves living in a sauna during the dog days of summer, so have your air conditioner inspected,” said O’Rourke. “You should also change your air filter to make sure it’s operating at its highest efficiency, so when that heat wave hits you’ll be nice and cool inside your home.”

Have a professional inspect your HVAC unit to make sure its exterior condenser coil and compressor are clean and free from blockages — the average cost for an inspection is about $300.

Your home will bring you security and joy for many years to come. Taking the time to maintain it is well worth the investment.


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At-home cancer checks you can do during COVID-19 restrictions

2020-06-02T17:01:00

(BPT) – Being aware of how you feel is always important, especially during COVID-19. In addition to flagging symptoms of the coronavirus, you should note other changes to your health as well. Being aware of how your body looks and feels is particularly important when it comes to cancer.

Right now many clinics are limiting checkups and other nonessential appointments, and when they open up fully again, these appointments might be difficult to get. The medical experts at Minnesota Oncology agree that it’s important to be aware of changes and do cancer screenings at home so you can alert your physician of any warning signs.

Minnesota Oncology’s 12 Twin Cities locations are open and accepting new patients, with telehealth options available as well as safety measures in place to protect patients who need to go into clinics. For more information, visit mnoncology.com.

Unexplained pain
If you experience an injury, you’ll probably have some pain. However, if you have pain without a reason in your joints, bones, lower legs, abdominal muscles or lower back, this could be a warning sign. Additionally, ongoing pain during intercourse and pain when coughing should be discussed with your doctor.

Unusual bleeding

Contact your doctor if you notice any of the following unexpected bleeding:

  • Bleeding from a mole or wart you did not scratch.
  • Blood in your urine.
  • Blood in semen.
  • Vomiting, spitting or coughing blood.
  • Frequent nosebleeds.
  • Vaginal bleeding outside of the normal cycle or bleeding or spotting after menopause.
Changes in bathroom habits
Changes in your bathroom habits can be an early indicator of various conditions, including urinary tract, colorectal or prostate cancer. Know what’s normal for your body and note any changes that occur for more than a few days. If you have pain or difficulty going to the bathroom or the constant urge to urinate or have a bowel movement, speak with your doctor.
Changes to your skin
Skin cancer is very common, and while it impacts people with pale skin more often, people with dark skin can get it also. Here are red flags to discuss with your doctor:
  • Any changes to moles, freckles or birthmarks.
  • Changes in skin color or texture.
  • Unexplained bruising or bright red spots.
  • A small dome-shaped bump that is pink or purple and growing.
Breast self-awareness
You know your normal breast tissue, so by performing regular self-exams you can note any changes. Both men and women should contact their doctor if they notice any lumps or inflammation. A simple way to do a breast self-exam is to lift your hand to your head and use the pads of your fingers on the other hand to feel the breast tissue in a circular pattern. Then reverse by checking the other breast with the other hand.
Changes in the mouth or throat
Watch for changes in your oral health and speak with your doctor if you notice any:
  • Pain or numbness in your mouth.
  • Pain when swallowing.
  • Hoarseness that lasts more than two weeks.
  • Mouth ulcers that don’t go away.
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking.
  • A swelling on one side of your neck.
  • Changes to your bite.
  • Excess saliva.
  • Change in the pitch of your voice that lasts for more than two weeks.
Persistent fever
A persistent low-grade fever of about 100 is a sign that something is wrong. It may be COVID-19, so call to see if you should get tested. If the test is negative and the fever continues, it could be a sign your body is fighting another problem. Speak with your doctor about next steps.
If you notice any of the above changes or anything out of the ordinary, remember that it doesn’t mean you have cancer. What it means is you should have an honest conversation with your doctor about your observations and concerns to determine the best next steps for your health and wellness.


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4 reasons parents should talk to their kids about a career in auditing

2020-06-02T05:01:00

(BPT) – Talking to high-school kids about careers can be hard. Many parents want to help their kids choose a fulfilling career that offers stability and growth potential, but kids often come to career conversations with their own wish lists.

A new documentary premiering on public television starting June 5 might just make that career conversation a little easier for everyone. “Making it Balance,” made possible by the Center for Audit Quality, features three young adults traveling across the country in a big, green RV as they discover how people of all backgrounds and passions forge their own career paths through the auditing profession.

Traveling from Austin to Boston, roadtrippers Sobia, Da’Rell and Leilani interviewed experienced auditors and business leaders, learning how a career in audit can serve as a stepping stone for a diverse and varied career, combining business acumen, data analysis and financial knowledge.

Here are four reasons parents should watch “Making it Balance” with their kids and talk to them about a career in auditing.

Auditing isn’t just a job, it’s a career

Auditing jobs aren’t just in demand, they also provide potentially lucrative career paths. On average, auditors at public company accounting firms with roughly two years of experience can earn above average salaries. If they stay in the auditing profession long enough, the career path can lead them to become a partner with the potential to earn very healthy compensation packages.

Even during uncertain times like the current COVID-19 pandemic, a career in auditing can afford a measure of stability and good pay. Early-career professionals like the young adults featured in the documentary will play a critical role in helping businesses navigate current and future challenges.

Every industry needs auditors, even sports and music

Many kids think they have to choose between a fulfilling career and a career that offers a good salary. This is not the case when it comes to auditing.

Public companies in every industry are required to have auditors that assure their financial reporting is reliable and accurate. That means auditors can make a good salary while working in whatever industry makes them happy.

The roadtrippers in “Making it Balance” discover this the fun way. They interviewed prominent auditors in the sports and music industries, including the commissioner of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the internal audit manager at LiveNation, a music and entertainment company.

A career in audit is a career in technology

More and more, auditors are leveraging the same cutting-edge technologies as leading consumer brands Facebook, Google and Amazon. From artificial intelligence to automation to cybersecurity, auditors are integrating cutting-edge technologies into their daily work routines.

Leveraging automation and other technologies enables auditors to reduce time on basic or mundane tasks, instead focusing on tasks that require analysis, creativity, teamwork and problem-solving.

Audit is a purpose-driven profession

Auditors feel a strong sense of purpose in their profession. They take seriously their responsibilities to provide trust and confidence in the information people depend on to make some of the most important financial decisions of their lives, such as taking out home mortgages, paying for college tuition and saving for retirement.

Parents and their kids can watch the one-hour documentary when it airs nationally on public television stations across the country starting on June 5, and online starting June 4. Learn more at https://www.discoveraudit.org/makingitbalance2020/.