Category: Brandpoint Health

2025-12-09T08:07:00

(BPT) – A lingering cough. A stuffy nose that just won’t quit. If you’ve ever felt like your cold is overstaying its welcome, you’re not alone. Most respiratory infections clear up within a week or two, but sometimes, what we do while we’re “on the mend” can turn a simple sickness into a longer, drawn-out battle.

“People often assume that once their fever breaks or congestion improves, they’re in the clear,” notes Dr. Vontrelle Roundtree, a family medicine physician and Associate Chief Medical Officer at MD Live by Evernorth. “Your immune system is still in repair mode even after the worst symptoms subside. Seemingly harmless choices can set your recovery back or even cause rebound symptoms.”

Here are six surprising ways we keep our recovery from fully crossing the finish line, and what you can do to help your body truly heal.

1. You’re back in go-mode, but your immune system isn’t: After being sick, it’s tempting to dive right back into work, errands and everyday demands. However, constant stress keeps your body in a fight-or-flight mode, which can suppress immune function and prolong recovery time. When your body stays under pressure, it has less energy to dedicate to repair and healing. The best approach: Reintroduce work schedules, exercise routines and other regular daily activities gradually to let your system fully recover before returning to your usual pace.

2. You’re talking more than you should: Once you’re feeling better, it’s easy to jump back into routine conversations, but your throat and airways may still be recovering. Meetings, long calls and social plans can strain your vocal cords and respiratory system before they’ve fully recovered. If your throat still feels scratchy or a cough is still lingering, give yourself permission to speak less and let your voice rest — a simple yet powerful way to support healing.

3. You’re still sleeping with the heat on full blast: Heating systems in our homes often produce dry heat, draining any moisture in the air. A lack of moisture can cause mucus to thicken and dry out, irritating your sinuses and making congestion worse. A cool mist humidifier or opening a window slightly can help keep your airways hydrated, which in turn, can help your body clear residual infection faster than the dry air.

4. You’re relying on leftover meds: Using leftover medications or antibiotics prescribed for a different illness can delay proper treatment and cause side effects. If lingering fatigue, coughing or congestion continue, consult a doctor to rule out complications and determine the most appropriate treatment options for you.

5. You’re not fueling your comeback correctly: Skipping meals or relying only on snacks can slow down repair and leave you feeling run-down. Protein gives your immune system the amino acids it needs to rebuild and restore balance. Add lean proteins, such as eggs, beans or chicken, to help your body regain strength and recover more quickly.

6. You’re ignoring lingering inflammation cues: If your sinuses still ache, your muscles feel unusually sore, or your energy dips sharply midday, it could be your body’s way of saying it’s not done healing. Treat those signs as yellow lights, not green. If you’re unsure whether lingering symptoms are part of normal recovery or something more, an MD Live doctor can assess your symptoms virtually and guide you on next steps so you can return to full strength safely.

Getting sick can feel like a total disruption to your schedule, preventing you from socializing and interrupting your routine. However, recovery doesn’t end when your symptoms fade. Giving your body the time, rest and nourishment it needs can mean the difference between feeling “mostly better” and feeling truly well again.

2025-12-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – For 36-year-old Austin, Texas, resident David R., kidney disease was something he never expected. After months of feeling sluggish, nauseous and experiencing cramping in his hands and feet, he made an appointment to see his doctor to discuss his health. However, just two days before his appointment, the pain moved to David’s abdomen, and he was raced to the emergency room.

“I thought I was dehydrated,” David recalled. “But the doctors said I had stage 5 kidney failure.”

Following his diagnosis, David was empowered to take charge of his kidney health, partnering with his doctor to learn more and develop a care plan to manage his condition. Several years into dialysis, David was matched with a living kidney donor and received a kidney transplant.

Now, 17 years into his kidney health journey, David’s sharing his experience to encourage at-risk adults to prioritize their health through It Takes 2™ — a health initiative bringing awareness to the importance of testing and early diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) to help reduce long-term complications.

Who is at risk for CKD?

David’s story isn’t unique. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 35 million adults in the U.S. have CKD. Like David, most people (90%) with CKD don’t know they have it and many don’t experience symptoms until their disease is in its advanced stages.

There’s no single cause of CKD. However, diabetes and high blood pressure are responsible for up to two-thirds of kidney disease cases. Also, some populations, including Black, Hispanic and Latin Americans, are likely to have a greater incidence of risk factors for kidney disease and more barriers to accessing primary care.

“Hispanic and Latin Americans are at higher risk for CKD. I know this because I’m living it,” said David. “As a former dialysis patient and kidney and liver transplant recipient, I know how difficult it can be to access the resources and support. In fact, my father experienced and unfortunately passed away from kidney failure as a result of his diabetes, and my mother recently passed away after six months of dialysis.”

Detecting kidney disease takes two tests and two people

It takes two tests — a blood test called eGFR and a urine test called UACR — to get the full picture about CKD. However, most people who are at risk of developing CKD are not receiving regular, complete testing. One study found that less than 20% of patients at risk for CKD between 2013 and 2019 received complete testing for it.

“Looking back, I wish I’d been armed with the resources and support to get tested sooner,” said David. “That’s why I am proud to join the It Takes 2™ program, to empower people, like me, who are at risk of developing kidney disease, to prioritize their health by talking to their doctor about complete testing, including UACR testing.” Along with the eGFR blood test, the UACR urine test may also help uncover risk for cardiovascular disease.

Today, David works with nonprofits, medical organizations and policymakers to help others living with kidney disease and encourages those with a higher risk of developing CKD to talk to their doctor.

“Remember, it takes two — you and your doctor — to detect kidney disease and cardiovascular risk,” said David. “Knowledge is power, and working with your doctor to test for kidney disease is one step toward achieving that.”

Learn more about the resources available and the importance of complete testing for kidney disease by visiting www.TestYourKidneys.com.

2025-12-05T14:51:00

(BPT) – In a world dominated by keyboards and text messages, the simple act of writing by hand has become an often-overlooked superpower. Neuroscientists, educators, and creativity experts are all aligned to the fact that when we pick up a pen, our brains come alive in a way that electronic devices can’t replicate.

If you’ve ever felt clearer or lighter after jotting your thoughts and feelings on paper, there’s a reason. Writing by hand isn’t just reflective, it’s restorative. You’re creating a space for calm in an overstimulating world. Writing by hand has been proven to boost focus, spark creativity and even deepen emotional connection. As the new year begins, a key way to support your well-being may be as simple as capturing your thoughts in a journal or notebook with your favorite pen.

Find a blank page and let gratitude lead the way

Journaling has long been tied to better emotional health, but research shows that the benefits go even deeper. Elizabeth Scott, Ph.D., author of “8 Keys to Stress Management,” notes that expressive writing can strengthen the immune system, reduce symptoms of chronic conditions and help regulate mood. “When you give your thoughts a place to land, you give your mind room to breathe,” says Dr. Scott.

Gratitude journaling is one of the most accessible and uplifting methods of journaling. A 2021 study in the Journal of Happiness Studies found that spending just 15 minutes a day reflecting on gratitude, five days a week for at least six weeks, can reshape mental wellness and positively affect physical health.

Whether you’re grateful for a big event like a promotion or a small gesture like a friend buying you a latte, recording these positive moments in a journal helps you notice the shift. Over time, you’ll train your brain to look for what’s going well, not just what demands your energy.

Why it works: Writing by hand activates the brain differently

Typing is fast, but writing engages the brain in a more complex way. A 2024 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that writing by hand boosts activity in your brain tied to movement, vision and sensory processing, the systems that help information “stick.” Your brain simply responds differently when you slow down to form each word.

Enhance your experience: Your pen can be the key

Choosing your tools is a meaningful step as you plan your path to happiness. Pens with uplifting patterns, like Pilot’s new G2 | SmileyWorld^® Collection, can influence mood through simple visual cues. The G2 gel pens in the G2 | SmileyWorld^® Collection feature cheerful emoticons that our brains respond to positively, the same way we’d respond as if we’re seeing a real smiling face. It’s a small, steady nudge toward a more positive mindset each time you pick one up to write.

As Dr. Scott explains, “Our brains gravitate toward patterns and make lasting associations. If you consistently choose to use a writing instrument with happy emoticons during moments of reflection or creative expression, your mind will start to associate these activities with positivity.”

Maximize your mindset with color

Color is more than nice to look at or wear — it’s also a powerful tool for success. Studies have proven that choosing certain colors can positively affect your mood, productivity and overall mindset.

• Blues soothe and support focus
• Pinks encourage warmth and positive thinking
• Greens promote balance and harmony
• Purples fuel imagination and creativity
• Reds, oranges & yellows spark energy, ideas and motivation

So, whether you write with a calming blue on a reflective morning or an energizing yellow when you’re setting goals, the G2 by Pilot comes in 41 vibrant colors as well as curated, mood-boosting pack assortments with the G2 Boost Collection to help you power your productivity and fuel your creativity.

Stay consistent: Make journaling fit your life

One of the biggest misconceptions about journaling is that it requires long, detailed entries. In reality, even a few minutes can make a meaningful difference.

Microjournaling is a great way to focus on gratitude and reflection. A helpful framework is the 4 A’s: appreciation, acknowledgment, admiration and affection. It’s a simple, attainable structure to help you remain consistent.

This year, write happier

If you’re looking for a grounded and uplifting habit to carry into the new year, gratitude journaling is a powerful place to start. With the right tools, ones designed to brighten your mood and engage your mind, you may find that writing becomes a moment you look forward to.

Here’s to a year of noticing the good, capturing small moments and writing your way toward a happier mindset. To learn more, visit PowerToThePen.com.

2025-12-03T12:01:00

(BPT) – Knowledge is power, and it’s also critical for making vital health care decisions. More information leads to better understanding of treatment options, especially when it comes to early-stage breast cancer. To increase knowledge for health care providers and people with breast cancer, the FLEX Study (NCT03053193) from Agendia, provider of MammaPrint^® and BluePrint^® genomic testing, seeks to capture genomic and clinical data for 30,000 newly diagnosed early-stage breast cancer patients, and to follow them for 10 years.

The FLEX Study captures the entire transcriptome (the complete set of RNA transcripts produced by the genome of an organism at a specific time) from a single breast cancer sample, and combines it with extensive clinical details of each patient — merging crucial genomic data with clinical data to create a huge database unlike any previous registry.

As of May 2025, the FLEX study has enrolled over 20,000 early-stage breast cancer patients across 102 sites in the U.S., three sites in Canada and one site each in Greece and Israel. This makes it the most diverse study to date, with significant representation from a wide array of populations to make FLEX much more inclusive of minority groups that have been previously underrepresented in medical research.

Open to women and men 18 years and older who have been diagnosed with stage I, II or III breast cancer, including all clinical subtypes, the FLEX dataset will be a true representation of the entire patient population. FLEX is the largest and most comprehensive observational trial for breast cancer, drawing on a vast database of genomic and clinical data to offer ongoing insights that can help inform care decisions for people with breast cancer today and into the future.

“The study is already providing a very valuable tool to help health care providers predict patient responses to therapy,” said Joyce O’Shaughnessy, MD, FLEX National Principal Investigator, chair of the Breast Cancer Program for U.S. Oncology Research, Texas Oncology and Celebrating Women chair in Breast Cancer Research at Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, Texas. “This data also helps us understand the mechanisms of treatment in early-stage breast cancer patients, with long-term follow-up.”

Expanding understanding of early-stage breast cancer

The FLEX trial focuses on enriching enrollment of diverse racial/ethnic minorities, historically underrepresented groups and uncommon early breast cancer (EBC) tumor histologies (the scientific study of the microscopic structure of cells and tissues). An additional goal is supporting investigator-initiated sub-studies to address clinically relevant questions in EBC with up to 10 years of follow-up.

By capturing data from patients of all ethnicities, ages, genders and health statuses, the FLEX database provides valuable opportunities to accelerate real-world breast cancer research. FLEX will enable researchers to investigate the differences and trends between breast cancer sub-groups. Importantly, it will also allow a focus on smaller, more diverse patient populations which have traditionally been challenging to recruit in sufficient numbers for clinical trials.

Patients who receive standard of care MammaPrint^® (70-gene signature risk of recurrence), with or without BluePrint^® (80-gene signature molecular subtype) genomic testing on their primary breast tumor and consent to clinically annotated whole transcriptome data collection are eligible for enrollment.

Ongoing research is already uncovering key insights

The FLEX trial is currently supporting ongoing research, including 42 active sub-studies, and has presented over 63 abstracts internationally (2018-2025), including 6 podium presentations that address the underlying differences in tumor biology and disparities in treatment in underrepresented populations.

At this year’s San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium^® (SABCS), several presentations will reveal the latest research insights discovered from analysis of FLEX data. SABCS is the world’s largest and most significant scientific conference exclusively dedicated to breast cancer, providing a vital platform for clinicians and researchers to share new data, discuss medical discoveries and collaborate globally, attracting over 10,000 attendees from more than 102 countries.

Presentations at the 2025 SABCS highlight the key role of FLEX study data in providing detailed insights that can help health care providers recommend treatment options for individuals, depending on their unique risk factors for disease recurrence in early breast cancer.

“The scientific evidence being developed by the FLEX data means that health care teams can provide personalized care that helps them minimize both over- and under-treatment of an individual’s disease,” added O’Shaughnessy.

Evidence-based insights from the FLEX study and genomic testing are resulting in more personalized treatment planning at the earliest stage of care, leading to better informed treatment decisions and improved patient outcomes.

Learn more about the latest insights from the FLEX registry at Agendia.com.

2025-11-30T01:01:00

(BPT) – Do you know whether your current Medicare plan covers any vision benefits? Most Medicare plans don’t cover routine eye exams or glasses, but certain supplemental or Medicare Advantage plans do offer this crucial coverage. Knowing what’s included in your Medicare coverage can help you save money, while also keeping your eyes healthy.

Here are tips to help you make the most of your Medicare plan when it comes to your eye health, and what you should know about reducing your vision-related expenses.

Check your eligibility: See if you’re covered for an annual eye exam. Many Medicare Advantage plans include one routine exam per year, at no extra cost. Having an annual eye exam is important not just for corrective lenses, but to support your overall eye health. Contact your insurer to ask questions about your vision coverage.

Use your vision allowances before they expire: Some Medicare plans include a particular allowance for glasses or contacts that resets each calendar year. For this reason, it’s important to use your allowance for corrective lenses before the end of the year to make the most of your benefits, or you could be leaving money on the table.

Choose an in-network provider: Making sure to stay within your network when you choose a provider for your next eye exam helps you avoid paying higher out-of-pocket costs. Check with your insurance provider to help you find an in-network provider near you, if you don’t have one already.

Update your prescription: Even if you only need small changes to your glasses or contact lens prescription, updating your prescription each year may help improve your vision — and your safety, especially while you’re driving.

Explore preventive screenings: Annual eye exams are important for identifying serious health conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts or macular degeneration at an early stage, when they are more easily treatable. Especially as you age, it’s more important than ever to have these vital screenings every year. Additionally, comprehensive eye exams can help identify potential signs of serious health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, which may benefit from early detection and treatment.

Visit an eye doctor and save with VSP vision insurance: If you don’t have vision coverage as part of your Medicare plan, you still have affordable options. For example, you can purchase a vision insurance plan at any time with VSP^® Individual Vision Plans, with no need to wait for a special open enrollment or waiting period. You can save over $350 annually with affordable VSP Individual Vision Plans that you can customize and buy on your own. You’ll also receive 20% savings on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from a VSP network doctor within 12 months of your last exam. VSP members also have access to over $3,000 in savings with Exclusive Member Extras.

Even if you do not wear corrective lenses, maintaining regular eye exams is an important part of your overall health and well-being. Take action now to ensure that your vision is protected. Visit VSPDirect.com to compare plans and find a vision plan that meets your needs.

2025-11-24T13:37:00

(BPT) – Holidays are all about cozy gatherings and enjoying quality time with family and friends. But when everyone has full calendars and endless to-do lists, hosting can quickly become overwhelming. These simple tricks will help make entertaining feel effortless, so you can relax, slow down and savor all your seasonal celebrations.

1. Create a checklist

A few days before the party, jot down everything you’ll need, from ingredients and decor to serving pieces, and note where to buy each item. This can help streamline the logistics of your shopping or ordering for delivery, while also ensuring you won’t forget anything important!

2. Keep your home visit-ready

Keep your home effortlessly guest-ready by creating a designated drop zone near the entryway. Use hooks or baskets for coats, bags and shoes. No coat closet? No problem. Try a rolling bin to neatly store your family’s essentials and tuck it out of sight whenever guests drop by, expected or not.

3. Prep a batch dish in advance

Choose one dish you know will be a hit, like a baked pasta, a hearty winter salad, or a cozy soup, and prepare it the day before. Having a delicious, ready-to-go option on hand eases the pressure on the day of and helps you spend more time with guests and less time in the kitchen.

4. Pre-set your table décor

Prep your tablescape the night before your celebration, setting out platters, utensils and drinkware as well as seasonal decor, like greenery, candles or themed place cards. Make sure to snap a quick photo of your table setup or decor once it’s ready — next year, you’ll thank yourself for the easy inspiration.

5. Make tasty appetizers or sides in a snap

Short on prep time but still want to wow your guests as soon as they come in the door? Try this Pull-Apart Holiday Caesar Salad Wreath from Fresh Express! It’s fresh, fun and effortlessly elegant, making it the perfect seasonal dish that looks as good as it tastes (and comes together in minutes)!

Pull-Apart Holiday Caesar Salad Wreath

This show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table features classic flavors with crisp greens, herb-seasoned crouton crumbles, and a rich Caesar dressing, beautifully arranged for a delightful seasonal presentation.

Prep time: 25 minutes Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 (9.4-ounce) packages Fresh Express^® Caesar Chopped Salad Kit^®
• 3 boxes Chebe Original Cheese Bread Mix
• 6 eggs, room temperature
• 6 tablespoons olive oil
• 9-12 tablespoons water
• 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 6 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
• 4.5 cups chopped broccoli florets
• 1.5 cups red bell pepper, diced

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, prepare the Chebe mix according to the package instructions, using approximately 3 tablespoons of water per box of bread mix to ensure the dough is not too sticky.

3. Knead the dough until well combined. Divide it into 12 equal portions, rolling each into a ball. For accuracy, each ball should weigh about 28 grams if using a kitchen scale. If no scale is available, roll the dough into a log shape and slice it into equal pieces.

4. Arrange the dough balls in a circular pattern on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1/2 inch of space between each ball. To guide placement, visualize the face of a clock and position the dough balls where the numbers would be.

5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the dough balls are lightly golden brown. Allow them to cool completely before proceeding.

6. In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese and dry ranch seasoning until smooth.

7. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the baked wreath, using approximately 3/4 of the mixture. Reserve any leftover cream cheese mixture as a dip for vegetables or crackers.

8. Layer the chopped broccoli over the cream cheese mixture, pressing it gently to help it stick. Sprinkle the diced red bell pepper over the top to complete the decoration.

For effortless entertaining, Fresh Express brings you chef-inspired salad blends that are as convenient as they are craveable. Each mix is washed, rinsed and gently dried to perfection — no prep needed — so you can serve vibrant, flavorful sides and appetizers in minutes.

Visit FreshExpress.com for more recipes and products to inspire your holiday entertaining.

2025-11-20T08:15:00

(BPT) – Murals possess a unique ability to bring a community to life, creating spaces for connection, reflection and inspiration. These public art installations transform spaces, fostering community ties and positively impacting the well-being of those who experience it.

On college and university campuses, murals do more than add color; they celebrate an institution’s history, values and vision for the future. They create a shared sense of pride, inspire unity and foster lasting school spirit, allowing students and visitors to see themselves reflected in public spaces. Murals provide a place for people to gather, take photos and share their connection to the school, amplifying campus pride.

Valspar—a leading manufacturer of paint and coatings—understands the unique power of murals to spread optimism and inspire. That’s why the brand launched its “Be Bright by Valspar” mural initiative in 2021. This initiative sponsors large-scale murals in communities across the country, partnering with that year’s PGA TOUR Valspar Championship winner and local artists to create public art that reflects the people and places in which it’s located.

Oklahoma State University mural celebrates the power of paying it forward

This year’s mural is located on Chris’ University Spirit store, near Oklahoma State University (OSU), and was chosen by 2025 Valspar Championship winner and OSU alum Viktor Hovland. The design celebrates OSU traditions and school pride.

Beyond its artistic impact, the mural serves as a vibrant backdrop for community gatherings and photos, allowing students to express their school spirit and share it with others.

Oklahoma artist Kellen Carter designed and painted the mural, which highlights community, dedication and the idea of paying it forward. The vibrant artwork captures how support and perseverance can turn childhood dreams into reality, reflecting Hovland’s own journey from a standout college athlete to a PGA Tour champion.

Speaking about the spirit of OSU, Hovland said, “One of OSU’s mottos is ‘Loyal & True,’ and you see that every day in Stillwater. It’s a very tight community that cares about the students,” a sentiment that echoes throughout the mural’s message of pride and connection.

“Be Bright by Valspar” initiative: A history of community art in action

The “Be Bright by Valspar” initiative began just before the 2021 Valspar Championship PGA tournament in Tampa Bay—a moment when the world was beginning to reopen from the pandemic and people were craving optimism and real human connection. Recognizing this need, Valspar created the program to celebrate the power of color, public art and community storytelling, using murals to uplift and inspire, spark dialogue and create spaces that invite personal interaction.

Each year, as part of “Be Bright by Valspar,” the brand completes two murals: the first in Tampa Bay and the second later in the year in a city of the tournament winner’s choosing. Each mural, just like each community, is unique. All Be Bright murals are painted using Valspar Defense and Duramax exterior fade-resistant paints to ensure each mural can inspire communities for years to come.

At the heart of this initiative is the belief in the power of togetherness and what it can do for people and their communities. Since its inception, Be Bright by Valspar has completed ten murals: five in the Tampa Bay area at North Greenwood Recreation Center, Tampa General Hospital, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and Feeding Tampa Bay and five others in Ruston, Louisiana, Edmond, Oklahoma, Nashville and Knoxville, Tennessee and most recently in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

Valspar believes paint inspires beyond home projects, encouraging everyone to be the brightness the world needs. To learn more about the Be Bright initiative, visit Valspar.com/En/BeBright.

2025-11-21T12:19:00

(BPT) – You may have heard about microplastics in the environment, but did you know synthetic textiles are responsible for an estimated 35% of all primary microplastic pollution? Growing research about microplastics and their potential harm not just for the environment, but also for human health, has brought increasing attention to where they can be found. It’s also becoming clear that people can help reduce microplastics through simple choices — such as checking clothing tags for natural fibers like cotton before making a purchase.

What are microplastics, and why do they matter?

Microplastics are very small plastic particles (less than 5 millimeters) that result from the breakdown of larger plastic items, such as fibers that can be found in synthetic textiles. With every wear and wash, synthetic materials shed tiny microplastics that then accumulate throughout homes, in waterways including the oceans, and in the air we breathe.

Alarmingly, microplastics have even been found within people’s bodies, and their potential health effects are still being studied. In the last year, a growing amount of scientific evidence has confirmed a significant presence of microplastics within our bodies. Research has found that the average person inhales or ingests an estimated 74,000–121,000 microplastic particles each year, leading to plastic microfibers being found lodged deep in the lungs and even circulating in blood. Emerging research is investigating the impact microplastics may be having on health, including potential links to cardiovascular disease, infertility, and dementia.

How you can reduce your exposure to microplastics

While this news is extremely concerning, there are actions you can take that make a difference. As you’re shopping for holiday gifts this year, take the opportunity to start checking the tags of clothing before you buy. Make that tiny action a habit or New Year’s resolution. Just as you scan nutrition labels on food for yourself and your family, knowing that you’re buying and wearing natural fibers like cotton can also provide peace of mind. Cotton not only offers comfort and breathability, but it also reduces your exposure to microplastics and the amount of microplastics in the environment.

Synthetic clothing, like polyester and rayon, are created by fibers made through chemical processes, using compounds that come from industrially sourced materials including petroleum-based chemicals and petrochemicals. Often, they’re made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), the same chemicals found in single-use plastic bottles and packaging.

Every year, simply wearing polyester apparel can release over 900 million microplastics into the air, and washing synthetic garments adds nearly 300 million more microplastics into wastewater. Overall, up to 65% of microplastics shed from synthetic textiles may be released into the air just through drying and wearing them.

By choosing natural fibers for your own clothing and for the gifts you give this holiday season, you’ll be helping to decrease the amount of microplastics in the environment and in your own body.

“It’s time to connect the dots between what we wear and our overall wellness,” suggests Marjory Walker, vice president of Council Operations, National Cotton Council. “The materials our clothes are made from deserve the same attention we give to other aspects of our health. The power to make a more informed choice is right at your fingertips and we’re encouraging a ‘Tag Swap’: swapping the synthetic choice for a natural one. When you see polyester or acrylic on a label, you can make a more conscious decision.”

The National Cotton Council’s “Plant Not Plastic” campaign urges shoppers to learn more about the importance of wearing natural fibers as part of their overall wellness routine.

“When you choose a natural fiber like cotton, you’re not just avoiding plastic; you’re choosing a fiber that is naturally soft, breathable, and comfortable,” added Walker. “Before you buy, flip the tag and aim for 100% cotton or high-cotton blends for superior breathability, comfort, and peace of mind.”

Learn more about the benefits of choosing natural fibers at PlantNotPlastic.org and follow on social: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, X, and TikTok.

2025-11-20T13:01:00

(BPT) – Scott Rider of South Carolina is one of over 1 million people in the United States with Parkinson’s disease. Working closely with his care team, he decided on a unique three-part plan that Medical University of South Carolina clinicians refer to as the “trifecta” for treating Parkinson’s: seeing a movement disorders specialist, optimizing medications and engaging in exercise-based therapies. This includes an innovative new exercise program designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s disease facts

Parkinson’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disorder. Approximately 90,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with Parkinson’s each year, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Symptoms often begin slowly and are subtle, such as balance problems, limb stiffness and shaking in the hands. These may be mistaken for other disorders or dismissed as a natural part of aging. However, it’s essential to talk with your doctor if you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms because an earlier diagnosis means better treatment options that can help to slow the progression of the disease, including comprehensive programs with exercise and advanced treatments.

Exercise for Parkinson’s disease

“There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. However, scientists have found that intense exercise is a means of slowing down the progression of the disease,” said Vanessa Hinson, M.D., PhD., director of the Movement Disorders Program at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). “We advise the patient early on to get engaged with physical therapy and community-based exercise programs.”

MUSC Health is South Carolina’s first designated Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence, offering the state’s only comprehensive movement disorders program. As part of this program, movement disorder specialists work closely with patients to provide personalized care and treatment.

“A movement disorder specialist is a neurologist with additional training in Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders,” said Hinson. “We’re well-equipped to detect the early signs and get people on the right track early on in the course of Parkinson’s disease.”

Rider, an MUSC patient, participates in regular exercise to manage his Parkinson’s symptoms. He enjoys a non-contact boxing program called Rock Steady Boxing that incorporates elements that help people with Parkinson’s disease to manage their disease. Another program he likes is a pickleball program called Pick It Up for Parkinson’s.

“Having the right team around is crucial as far as managing the disease to maintain the healthiest lifestyle possible. And that team should include a movement disorder specialist,” said Rider. “All that put together creates such a sense of hope and encouragement that just makes life better when you’re managing Parkinson’s disease.”

Parkinson’s medications and clinical trials

Medications are another key element of MUSC’s trifecta for treating Parkinson’s disease. There have been numerous medication breakthroughs that have helped people with Parkinson’s to delay the progression of the disease, with a key element being a comprehensive team of specialists that can tailor personalized medication treatment plans for patients.

Levodopa is the main medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease. To help the brain to get the optimum amount, it’s paired with another medication called carbidopa. This pairing allows patients to take lower doses with fewer side effects while maximizing benefits.

Over time, different formulations, such as extended-release pills, infusion pumps and add-on drugs, have been developed to keep medication levels steadier and manage symptoms like tremors, movement fluctuations and involuntary movements.

Fortunately, the team believes that the availability of options and effectiveness of treatments for Parkinson’s disease will continue to grow, thanks to expert research and participation in clinical trials. MUSC Health is leading the way in this work, conducting cutting-edge trials that focus on alleviating challenging symptoms and exploring therapies that could slow or stop disease progression. By participating in clinical trials – always available at no cost – patients may gain access to promising new medications while helping to advance care for everyone with Parkinson’s disease.

Advanced treatments for Parkinson’s disease

MUSC Health’s Movement Disorders Program also includes advanced therapies like deep-brain stimulation. This may be an option beyond medication for Parkinson’s patients like Chris McLernon, whose Parkinson’s restricted his ability to play the rock music he loved so much.

He worked with the comprehensive care team at MUSC and decided to receive deep-brain stimulation surgery. Shortly thereafter, he brought in his guitar and immediately played a song he couldn’t play prior due to his symptoms.

“I brought it in and ripped it right out. I could not believe it,” McLernon said. “The fact that I can play easily, smoothly and professionally is worth everything to me.”

The future of Parkinson’s treatment

It’s MUSC’s goal to provide comprehensive treatment to people with Parkinson’s and other movement disorders. Their unique trifecta approach provides people with Parkinson’s a higher quality of life and better chance for managing the disease.

To learn more about MUSC Health and watch a video featuring these patient stories, visit muschealth.org.

2025-11-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – Lauren, a 35-year-old wife and mother of three daughters, had just finished breastfeeding her youngest when she first noticed the lump on her breast. She shrugged it off as something that happens when nursing and figured it would go away on its own. However, six months later the lump was still there, prompting her to see a doctor who later confirmed a stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis. Despite aggressively treating her cancer for two years, including a double mastectomy and ovary removal surgery, a follow-up biopsy revealed the cancer had spread and advanced to stage 4.

More than 300,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Of those diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, nearly 30% will later develop metastatic breast cancer, meaning the cancer has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body. And, while metastatic breast cancer is not curable, it is treatable.

“I was crushed when I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. After enduring different treatments, I was then handed what felt like a fatal diagnosis when I learned the cancer had spread,” Lauren recalls. “I retreated and isolated myself for a couple of months. All I could think about was how my children’s memories of me would only be of cancer. It was not how I wanted to be remembered, and I knew I had to change my mindset.”

Advancements in HER2 Research Helps Inform Treatment

Following Lauren’s metastatic breast cancer diagnosis, her doctors conducted biomarker testing to guide them as they developed her treatment plan. The tests indicated that her tumor had low levels of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a protein that helps cells grow. When cells produce too much HER2, they can become cancerous.

Edith Perez, M.D., professor emeritus at the Mayo Clinic and chief medical officer with the Cornerstone Specialty Network, noted that, “Historically, patients with HER2-expressing tumors were either categorized as HER2 positive or HER2 negative. However, advancements in research now show a person’s HER2 status exists on a spectrum, akin to a light switch dimmer, allowing for more nuanced assessment.”

Learning that Lauren’s metastatic breast cancer expressed low levels of HER2 was an important discovery for her care team. More than half of patients with metastatic breast cancer previously diagnosed as HER2 negative can now be identified as having low levels of HER2 expression.

“I felt scared and weak when I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer and did not know whether I would have months or years left,” Lauren recalls. “Luckily my efforts to keep up with the latest research and connect with other patients about their own experiences helped guide me when we learned I had low levels of HER2. It gave me a foundation when having conversations with my healthcare team for identifying the next steps in my journey.”

Lauren now dedicates her life to education and advocacy for the cancer community, including sharing her own experience navigating stage 4 breast cancer. She encourages others to talk to their doctor about biomarker testing or revisiting test results from previous biopsy samples since HER2 status can change over time and with treatment. Many who were previously told they were HER2 negative may have low levels of HER2 in their cancer cells — these levels may still matter.

Learn more about the importance of biomarker testing and how HER2 status can impact personalized treatment at HER2statusMatters.com.

This article is sponsored by Daiichi Sankyo and AstraZeneca. Lauren and Edith Perez, M.D., are paid consultants.