Category: Brandpoint Health

2026-08-14T10:47:00

(BPT) – The transition from summer days to the back-to-school season is notoriously hectic. Between new routines, extracurriculars and supply shopping, schedules are packed. But there’s one thing that shouldn’t get lost in the shuffle: a back-to-school health checklist.

From updating health forms to stocking up on medicine cabinet essentials, early preparation is key to keeping the household running smoothly. Samantha Picking, PharmD, senior director of immunizations at Walgreens, breaks down the health to-dos to knock out before the school year starts:

1. Get ahead of seasonal and routine vaccines

The start of a new school year is a good time to ensure the whole family is up to date on routine and seasonal vaccinations, such as those protecting against flu, COVID-19, tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough.

Pro tip: “Keep in mind that many vaccines take about two weeks to provide protection,” Picking said. “That’s why it’s worth scheduling appointments before kids and teens are back in close contact with classmates and respiratory virus season ramps up.”

At Walgreens, patients can schedule vaccination appointments for up to four people in a single visit and book well in advance, giving families more flexibility to plan ahead and save time. myWalgreens^® members can also earn $15 in Walgreens Cash rewards when they spend $5+ on their next eligible in-store purchase, plus 10% back in Walgreens Cash on eligible in-store purchases for 30 days when they get vaccinated.*

2. Coordinate school medications and medical forms

For students with conditions like asthma or severe allergies, early coordination with school staff is essential. Make sure to check the expiration dates on emergency inhalers or epinephrine auto-injectors and verify that the school has updated health forms on file.

Pro tip: “Don’t wait until the first day of school to get those required medical forms filled out,” Picking said. “Local pharmacy teams can also help refill essential emergency medications, so families are prepared before the first bell rings.”

3. Restock the medicine cabinet

Having sick-day supplies on hand is a key part of back-to-school readiness. Take stock of overall household health and wellness needs, including items like daily vitamins, cough drops, antacids, cough medicine, combination flu & COVID-19 tests and other essentials like a first aid kit.

Pro tip: “As a mom of three, I always do a quick check of the medicine cabinet and replace anything that’s expired or running low before the school year starts,” Picking said. “It only takes a few minutes, but it means you’re not caught off guard when someone actually gets sick.”

For families short on time, Walgreens has options to grab what you need with 1-hour Delivery and 30-minute Pickup.**

4. Reset daily wellness habits

Transitioning from relaxed summer schedules to structured school routines can be physically taxing for kids and parents alike. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, prioritize nutritious meals and reinforce healthy habits, like proper handwashing and using hand sanitizer, to form a strong foundation for the year ahead.

Pro tip: “Getting enough sleep and practicing good hygiene are two of the simplest ways to start the school year on the right foot,” Picking said. “It’s easy to let healthy routines slip during the summer, so ease back into them a week or two before school starts.”

Walgreens: A partner in health and back-to-school prep

Walgreens is a one-stop destination for vaccinations, over-the-counter essentials and last-minute school supplies. Vaccination appointments can be scheduled online, through the Walgreens app or by calling 1-800-WALGREENS. For any questions, expert pharmacists are ready to provide trusted guidance and personalized support.

*Must be a myWalgreens^® member. Offer available for a limited time and valid for 14 days from vaccination date. Must scan coupon at checkout to earn rewards/activate. Coupon offer not valid in AR, NJ or NY. Limit three coupons per person. See coupon for terms and restrictions. Vaccines subject to availability. Walgreens administers applicable vaccinations for children ages three and older. State-, age- and health-related restrictions may apply. Additional terms and exclusions apply. Complete details, including Walgreens Cash rewards expiration dates, at Walgreens.com/offerdetails.

$15 Offer

• Earn rewards on qualifying in-store purchases of $5+. Limit one storewide coupon redeemed per transaction, up to three redemptions per offer period. Maximum $45 Walgreens Cash rewards per member.

10% Offer

• Earn rewards on qualifying in-store purchases of $1+. Scan once to activate offer. Limit one offer per myWalgreens^® member. Maximum $100 Walgreens Cash rewards. Offer valid for 30 days following activation.

**Delivery in as little as 1 hour and Pickup in as little as 30 minutes based on national averages, actual times may vary. Pickup is available for eligible items when your order is $10 or more (after promo codes and paperless coupons are applied and before taxes). Exclusions, restrictions, and fees may apply. For details, visit Walgreens.com/same-day-delivery and Walgreens.com/Pickup.

2026-08-11T13:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Wellness routines have become incredibly complicated, and people are seeking effective solutions to support their daily habits without adding more work.
• Ryde: SLEEP simplifies bedtime routines with a quick 2oz shot designed to help you unwind and get ready for better rest.
• The functional shot is designed for busy people who want to feel more prepared for the next day, whether that means work, workouts, travel or everyday commitments.
• Rob Gronkowski brings the message to life by showing that even a “Full Gas” lifestyle needs smart recovery and simple tools that actually fit into real life.
• Alongside SLEEP, Ryde: FOCUS gives consumers another easy functional dietary supplement shot for moments when you want help tuning out distractions and locking in.

Wellness used to be simple. Somewhere along the way, it turned into a cabinet full of supplements and a bedtime routine too complicated to keep up with. As people look to simplify their daily habits without sacrificing results, easy, effective solutions are having a major comeback.

Enter Ryde:, the globally loved well-being brand known for its pocket-size 2oz functional dietary supplement shots. Challenging the increasingly complicated nature of modern wellness routines, Ryde: is proving that taking care of yourself doesn’t need to be a tedious chore with its newest launch in partnership with Rob Gronkowski, Ryde: SLEEP: a simple, science-backed solution that fits seamlessly into busy lives.

The power of the night before

Whether preparing for an intense workday, an early morning workout, or back-to-back commitments, feeling your best starts hours before the alarm goes off. Ryde:’s SLEEP shot was built specifically for people who know that the night before matters just as much as the morning after.

Formulated with a delicious blackberry flavor, Melatonin, GABA, L-Theanine and Chamomile, SLEEP is designed to support sleep quality and helps you fall asleep faster.

Informed Choice certified and developed with science-backed ingredients, zero calories, zero sugar and no unnecessary extras, Ryde: delivers functional support without the fuss. Every shot also features Ryde: Ryplenish™, a scientifically backed formula that works right when you need it, making it the perfect daily ally for well-being on-the-go.

2026-07-31T08:01:00

(BPT) – As cancer research continues to move forward, scientists are increasingly recognizing that cancer is not the same for everyone. Even people with the same diagnosis can have very different experiences. This realization is shifting thinking away from one-size-fits-all treatment approaches and toward a better understanding of what makes each person’s cancer unique.

By learning more about the genetic makeup of a person’s tumor, researchers can begin to see those differences more clearly and use them to guide future scientific and clinical advances.

A Novel Approach

Merck and Moderna are working together to explore an innovative approach to cancer care — one that seeks to address each individual’s cancer with a “one medicine for one patient” mindset. This research centers on an individualized neoantigen therapy (INT) approach, which is designed with the intent to train and activate a patient’s immune system to specifically identify and then destroy cancer cells.

Every person’s tumor has a distinct “fingerprint” made up of mutated genes resulting in abnormal proteins, called neoantigens. An INT, leveraging mRNA as the body’s instruction-carrying molecule, could help train a patient’s immune cells to recognize these cancer “fingerprints” as foreign and potentially launch an immune response against those cancer cells to help their own body fight back.

“Because the genetic makeup of a patient’s cancer is unique to that person, we believe there is a need for innovative therapies that can be tailored to a patient’s tumor with the potential to enhance immune surveillance for each person’s specific cancer,” said Dr. Vassiliki Karantza, Associate Vice President, Global Clinical Development, Merck Research Laboratories.

Using these insights, researchers identify genetic mutations of a patient’s cancer by performing an analysis of their blood and tumor samples to select which neoantigens may be best suited to activate the patient’s immune cells. An INT is then created with the intent to specifically treat the individual patient’s cancer.

“Our teams are working relentlessly to explore this new approach, which is grounded in the fact that every patient’s cancer has unique features,” said Dr. Michelle Brown, Head of Oncology Portfolio Development at Moderna. “Made possible by mRNA technology, this approach could represent a shift toward more personalized care in cancer, where we design therapies based on each patient’s specific biology — moving us toward creating one medicine for one patient.”

Research Underway

Researchers are currently conducting studies to better understand how INTs may help train the body’s immune system. There are currently no U.S. FDA-approved individualized neoantigen therapies.

For more information about ongoing research in cancer, visit: Merck.com or Moderna.com.

This information is provided by Merck and Moderna.

Copyright © 2026 Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA and its affiliates. All rights reserved.

2026-07-30T13:01:02

(BPT) – Blood cancers develop when changes in DNA cause blood-forming cells to grow abnormally. Instead of producing healthy blood cells that support the immune system and carry oxygen through the body, these altered cells multiply in an uncontrolled way. Over time, this can weaken the immune system and make it harder for the body to fight infection and perform essential functions.

Types of blood cancer: leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma

The most common types of blood cancer are leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Together, they account for the majority of hematologic malignancies, with more than 190,000 new cases projected each year in the U.S.

• Leukemia forms in the blood and bone marrow and is caused by the rapid production of abnormal white blood cells. There are several types of leukemia, which include acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia.
• Lymphoma develops in the lymphatic system, a network of organs, vessels and tissues that helps protect the body from infection. It is often classified as either Hodgkin lymphoma or non-Hodgkin lymphoma, depending on the type of lymphocyte involved and specific cellular features.
• Myeloma, also known as multiple myeloma, forms in plasma cells found in the bone marrow. Unlike cancers that first appear in one location, myeloma can occur in multiple areas of the bone marrow at the same time.

Rare blood cancers: myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS)

In addition to the previously listed more common blood cancers, there are rarer related blood disorders, such as myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). About 20,000 new cases of MPNs and MDS are diagnosed each year in the U.S. MPNs occur when the bone marrow produces too many blood cells, while MDS develops when blood cells do not mature properly and are unable to become healthy cells. The main types of MPNs include essential thrombocythemia, primary myelofibrosis and polycythemia vera.

As the number of people affected by blood cancers and disorders continues to rise, scientists at Merck are exploring innovative strategies aimed at improving outcomes for patients living with these complex and challenging conditions. These approaches focus on enhancing the body’s response to cancer, targeting cancer cells more precisely and addressing pathways that drive cancer growth.

Merck is currently investigating several potential innovative treatment approaches for hematologic malignancies across a broad range of different disease pathways, including:

• Targeting ROR1, a protein that is overexpressed in multiple hematologic malignancies

• Evaluating the role of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, including common mechanisms of resistance for patients with certain hematologic malignancies

• Targeting lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), an enzyme that is potentially important for regulating the uncontrolled reproduction of blood stem cells and the maturation of blood cells in the bone marrow

• Evaluating the role of the BCR::ABL novel protein in white blood cell proliferation

• Researching T-cell engagement for certain types of leukemia and lymphoma

“Our team is building on our legacy in oncology to understand how various mechanisms and modalities could address blood cancers in innovative ways,” said Dr. Shweta Jain, vice president, oncology clinical research, Merck Research Laboratories. “By exploring multiple potential novel mechanisms of action across a broad range of blood cancers and disorders, we hope to help address longstanding unmet needs for patients with hematologic malignancies.”

Through ongoing studies and clinical trials, Merck is working to advance clinical research for patients living with blood cancers and disorders. Learn more about Merck’s hematology research and clinical trials.

2026-07-24T12:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Habits, routines and environmental cues work together to influence your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
• One of the most important players in that ecosystem is melatonin, which helps signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down.
• Better sleep is one of the strongest investments you can make in your health and well-being.

Americans have never been more focused on optimizing their health. They wear devices that measure nearly every aspect of their day — from workouts and steps to heart rate and recovery — and increasingly turn to GLP-1 medications as part of the weight management journey.

Alongside these changes, experts are encouraging people to prioritize another key pillar of health: quality sleep, which plays an important role in overall well-being and can support healthy lifestyle habits.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 30% of U.S. adults regularly get less than the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night¹.

Dr. Stephanie Stahl, Medical Director at Indiana University Health, notes that many people still treat sleep as something they’ll fit in if there’s time. Stahl is the Sleep Medicine Fellowship Program Director and Associate Professor at Indiana University School of Medicine as well as Natrol^® Sleep Science Advisory Board member. “Many people think of sleep as the first thing they can sacrifice when life gets busy. But sleep isn’t a luxury. It’s one of the most powerful tools we have to support our health, mental well-being and daily performance.”

That can be difficult in today’s always-on world. Packed schedules, constant notifications and late-night scrolling can all work against the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. In fact, 38% of adults say using their phone or tablet before bed to read the news or “doomscroll” makes their sleep somewhat or significantly worse².

What sleep myths could be keeping you awake?

“One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that sleep starts when your head hits the pillow,” said Stahl. “The truth is that your body has been preparing for sleep all day. Your light exposure, activity, meals, stress and evening routine all influence how prepared your brain and body are for sleep.”

She describes this as your sleep ecosystem — the daily habits, routines and environmental cues that work together to influence your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. One of the most important players in that ecosystem is melatonin, a hormone your body naturally produces in response to darkness. Rather than forcing sleep, melatonin helps signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down.

Stahl is helping to debunk three common sleep myths:

Myth: Better sleep starts at bedtime.

Stahl: “Great sleep starts the moment you wake up. Morning sunlight helps regulate your body’s internal clock and supports natural melatonin production later that evening.”

Myth: I’ll catch up on sleep this weekend.

Stahl: “Consistency matters more than catch-up sleep. Keeping a regular sleep and wake schedule (yes, even on weekends) helps reinforce your body’s natural rhythm.”

Myth: The eight hours you’re asleep are all that matter.

Stahl: “The hour before bed matters, too. A consistent wind-down routine, like dimming the lights and avoiding screen time, helps prepare your brain and body for quality sleep.”

What small habits lead to better sleep?

The good news is that improving sleep doesn’t require overhauling your lifestyle. Stahl recommends focusing on a few consistent habits: Get outside for natural light early in the day, stay physically active, avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening, maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a cool, dark, quiet sleep environment.

When healthy habits need extra support that is safe

Healthy sleep habits are the foundation of better sleep, but even the best routines can’t account for everything. Travel, shift work, changing schedules, stress and age-related changes can all temporarily disrupt your body’s natural rhythm.

It’s one reason more than 27% of U.S. adults report using melatonin supplements, making it one of the country’s most commonly used sleep supplements³. Melatonin is a well-studied naturally occurring hormone that plays a key role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. When used as directed, it is widely recognized as a safe, effective and non-habit-forming option for temporary sleep support. Backed by 30 years of scientific research and widespread use, melatonin is the No. 1 doctor recommended ingredient for sleep⁴, recognized by experts as a safe, reliable way to help people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer*.

“Healthy sleep starts with healthy habits,” says Stahl. “Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces to help signal when it’s time to sleep. If travel, changing schedules or other temporary disruptions affect that rhythm, melatonin supplements can help support your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. The key is to think of it as one part of a broader sleep strategy, not a replacement for healthy habits.”

Because sleep challenges vary from person to person, some people may also benefit from ingredients such as magnesium glycinate, valerian root, GABA or L-theanine depending on their individual needs. Guided by leading sleep experts, including Stahl, Natrol develops science-backed sleep solutions designed to complement healthy sleep habits and support different sleep needs.

The benefits of prioritizing sleep extend well beyond feeling rested — 88% of adults who are satisfied with their sleep, report they are flourishing, compared with just 47% of those who aren’t⁵. Better sleep isn’t just another wellness goal. It’s one of the strongest investments you can make in your overall health and well-being.

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

SOURCES:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Short Sleep Duration Among Adults. National Center for Health Statistics, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db559.htm. Accessed 26 June 2026.
2. American Academy of Sleep Medicine. “Americans Are Doomscrolling at Bedtime, Prioritizing Screen Time Over Sleep.” American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2025, https://aasm.org/americans-are-doomscrolling-at-bedtime-prioritizing-screen-time-over-sleep/. Accessed 26 June 2026.
3. SleepFoundation.org survey. October 2022. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-news/how-much-melatonin-do-adults-really-take.
4. Based on a survey of doctors who recommend sleep support products.
5. National Sleep Foundation. Sleep in America^® 2025 Report. National Sleep Foundation, March 2025, https://www.thensf.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/NSF_SIA_2025-Report_final.pdf. Accessed 26 June 2026.

2026-07-22T07:01:00

(BPT) – The physical symptoms of dry eye present challenges in everyday life, and new research shows there’s often more hiding beneath the surface.

If your dry eye symptoms are affecting how you view your emotional health and well-being, don’t wait to talk to your eye doctor. There are various options available that can help provide relief. Learn more at KnowYourDryEye.com.

2026-07-15T08:05:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Whimsy-maxxing is a growing lifestyle trend often found in home design.
• Adding special decor to your home helps create a playful, joyous feeling.
• MacKenzie-Childs decor features bold colors or patterns that are ideal for whimsy-maxxing.

Whimsy-maxxing is one of today’s most playful design movements. When everyday routines start to feel a little boring and bland, whimsy-maxxing is the solution. This home trend embraces touches of color and creativity, adding imagination and joy to your favorite spaces.

Elevating your home and personal spaces with whimsical touches can impact your outlook and attitude. Some people call this dopamine decor because it can inspire happiness and positivity for you and your guests. This doesn’t require major renovations — a beautifully patterned accent or thoughtfully handcrafted piece can instantly brighten a room and spark a whimsical feeling.

“Whimsy has always been at the heart of MacKenzie-Childs, long before it became a design trend,” said Rebecca Proctor, Chief Brand Officer of MacKenzie-Childs. “We believe every home should reflect the people who live there, which is why our collections are designed to bring joy, creativity and personality to any space. Whether it’s a colorful tea kettle, a patterned serving piece or an unexpected decorative accent, whimsical touches are an easy way to make a home feel more personal.”

What is whimsy-maxxing? Here are 5 simple tips to whimsy-max your home:

Use playful patterns and creative colors

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to whimsy-max a space is to add pattern and color. Embrace combinations that feel collected over time. Think colorful florals, vibrant striped hues or bold polka dots that instantly energize a room. MacKenzie-Childs’ classic Courtly Check pattern is the perfect example of tradition with a twist, and is available in a variety of colors to suit your personality. Check out the gorgeous Emerald Check and viral Mocha Check for inspiration.

Mix patterns with confidence

Say goodbye to the beige blahs! Pattern layering is often found within the whimsy-maxxing trend, so don’t be afraid to experiment. For example, mix organic patterns and checks or stripes and dots. Pattern-on-pattern draws the eye and creates moments of happiness within a space. Designer tip: Incorporate a unifying color that appears in both patterns to ensure cohesiveness that looks intriguing and intentional.

Add imaginative extras that bring you joy

Whimsy is often found in the small extras that make everyday life special, so focus on adding decor and housewares that elevate life. For example, consider fun photo frames, delightful dishes with scalloped edges and smile-worthy mugs. MacKenzie-Childs’s best-selling 2-Quart Tea Kettle, available in a variety of colors, is as much a visual feast for the eyes as it is an item you’ll use often to create a moment of magic. The handmade details and artisan craftsmanship give whimsical spaces authenticity, making them feel curated instead of overly themed.

Reach for refined accents to create cozy comfort

A warm cup of your favorite tea. A soft blanket that inspires relaxation after a long day. Accent pillows that make your house feel like a home. Refined accents help you relax and get cozy, and are the perfect whimsical additions to any space no matter the season. Make the mundane more magical with special touches like these that personalize your home. These items also make great gifts for birthdays, holidays and other special occasions.

Turn everyday gatherings into occasions

Whimsy-maxxing helps you enjoy your life to the fullest and can inspire you to share that feeling with others. Invite loved ones over and enjoy entertaining them with some fun and functional pieces. For example, patterned serveware, funky tablecloths and that perfect platter that inspires conversation. Think outside the box and consider using items in new ways for your gatherings, such as your teapot as a centerpiece or as a vase for fresh flowers.

How to become a MacKenzie-Childs VIP

If you want the inside scoop on all things whimsical in home decor, consider signing up for MacKenzie-Childs Loyalty Rewards program. Joining is quick and easy, allowing you to earn rewards, discounts and early access to sales like the MacKenzie-Childs Barn Sale, July 16-20, with early access July 15. Visit www.mackenzie-childs.com/rewards to join today.

Whimsy-maxxing infuses joy and imagination into your living spaces, transforming them into havens of happiness for you and your guests. There’s no better time to explore unique artisan-crafted pieces that will elevate your home with whimsical charm.

2026-07-07T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by LEO Pharma

For Jennifer Etienne, 27, what began in her teens as irritation on her hands slowly became a painful, persistent condition that affected nearly every part of her daily life. Her hands often became swollen, blistered, and cracked — sometimes so raw that even light touch caused burning.

While Jennifer was diagnosed with eczema at 8 years old, she first noticed symptoms typical of chronic hand eczema (CHE) when she was about 15. After seeing a physician, she was told it was simply eczema. At the time, she didn’t realize that eczema affecting the hands can sometimes present differently or become chronic over time.

“I didn’t realize the eczema I was experiencing was actually CHE,” Jennifer says. Although she was initially diagnosed with eczema, she didn’t know that hand eczema can present differently — or that symptoms could persist, recur, or worsen over time.

Over the years, everyday tasks became increasingly painful. “Simple things most people don’t think twice about — like washing dishes or using cleaning products — could be incredibly uncomfortable,” she explains. “Sometimes it felt like anything that touched my hands made the irritation worse.” Because hands are so visible, she often felt self-conscious meeting new people and shaking hands. During CHE flares, she avoided physical contact out of concern that fragrances or lotions worn by others might aggravate her symptoms.

“CHE is more than a skin issue,” she says. “It also affects how you live, work, and connect with people.”

For many adults, ongoing irritation on the hands may be attributed to frequent handwashing or exposure to soaps and other everyday irritants.¹ But for some, these symptoms may signal something more serious: chronic hand eczema (CHE).

CHE is a persistent or recurrent form of eczema that affects the hands and wrists.¹ It can cause redness, itching, swelling, painful cracking, blistering, and even bleeding.² When symptoms last for more than 3 months or recur frequently they may indicate chronic hand eczema (CHE) rather than temporary irritation.¹

Research suggests that approximately one in ten adults in the United States may be living with CHE,³ making it more common than many people realize.

Beyond visible symptoms, CHE can carry substantial functional and emotional burdens. Studies show that it may significantly impact quality of life, one’s occupational choices, work productivity, and daily activities.^4,5

Like many individuals with CHE, Jennifer relied heavily on moisturizers for years and went through periods without consistent medical guidance. Feeling dismissed early in her journey made it harder to seek follow-up care. Eventually, when her symptoms worsened again, she chose to pursue further evaluation by a dermatologist and learn more about her condition.

“Looking back, I wish I had known sooner that if hand symptoms are ongoing, recurrent, or interfering with daily life, it’s important to talk to a dermatologist,” Jennifer says.

Dermatologists note that because hand eczema can have multiple triggers and may resemble other skin conditions, it can sometimes be overlooked or misunderstood.¹ Recognizing persistent or recurrent symptoms and discussing them openly with a healthcare provider is an important step toward proper evaluation.

To learn more about the symptoms and possible risk factors of CHE, visit www.LearnAboutCHE.com.

*In the photo above, Jennifer participates in advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill as a National Eczema Association ambassador.

References

1. Thyssen JP, Schuttelaar MLA, Alfonso JH, et al. Guidelines for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of hand eczema. Contact Dermatitis. 2022;86(5):357-378.
2. Molin S, Fargnoli MC, Crépy MN, et al. Real-world evidence of self-reported treatments, signs, and symptom burden in chronic hand eczema: Findings from the multinational CHECK study. Acta Derm Venereol. 2026;106:adv44493.
3. Chovatiya R, Balu S, Bin Sawad A, et al. Prevalence of self-reported physician diagnosis of chronic hand eczema in adults: A cross-sectional study of more than 10,000 participants in the general population – Results from the CHECK study in the United States. Presented at the Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference 2025. Orlando, Florida. 06-08 Nov. Poster Presentation.
4. Simpson E, Balu S, Bin Sawad A, et al. The impact of chronic hand eczema on occupation, work productivity, and activity impairment: Results from the CHECK study in the United States. Presented at the Fall Clinical 25 Annual Congress 2025. September 2025. Poster Presentation.
5. Cortesi PA, Scalone L, Belisari A, et al. Cost and quality of life in patients with severe chronic hand eczema refractory to standard therapy with topical potent corticosteroids. Contact Dermatitis. 2014;70(3):158-168.

2026-07-02T17:37:00

(BPT) –

During military and patriotic holidays in 2026, the Salute to Veterans Series shares the stories of veterans who served their country, overcame personal challenges in life and made a positive difference in their communities.

National TV series and year-round program honors veterans spanning several generations, highlights lessons learned when transitioning from the military to civilian life and what it means to serve our nation.

In the 250th year since our nation’s founding, the Salute to Veterans Series will air during military/patriotic holidays in 2026, covering the top issues veterans face daily. Terry Bradshaw, Hall of Famer and co-host of Fox NFL Sunday, serves as host of the Salute to Veterans Series, presented by Navy Federal Credit Union and Verizon. Veterans featured in the Salute to Veterans Series include Rocky Bleier, U.S. Army (Ret.), Col. Gregory D. Gadson, U.S. Army (Ret.), Lt. Joe Cardona, U.S. Navy Reserve Officer, Capt. Alejandro Villanueva, U.S. Army (Ret.) and more.

Salute to Veterans is a national television series and year-round program that honors and pays tribute to our nation’s veterans, active duty service men and women, transitioning military, military families and patriotic supporters. The inspirational and educational series offers insightful discussion, resources and solutions for the ongoing issues our veterans face daily.

The Salute to Veterans Series features a spirited group discussion with veterans about what it means to serve our nation, veteran employment, applying lessons learned from the military into the professional workforce, veteran education, the benefits of the Forever GI Bill for veterans and military families, preparing for the transition from the military to civilian life and much more.

Each of the veterans in the series share their personal stories of military service, and their experience finding success on the football field, both in college and in the pros. The veterans openly discuss their path forward, and offer their insight on important issues facing veterans and military families, and how they have found fulfillment and deep meaning in their lives — following their transition from the military.

Several topics and highlights include:

Veteran Employment — examples sharing how veterans’ military experience relates to success in corporate America

Veteran Education — examples of how continuing your education can help continue your personal growth, development and career

The Forever GI Bill — examples of how the Forever GI Bill can help you make the most of the opportunities in front of you and your family

Military Service Dogs — examples of how military service dogs are matched with veterans, and the success stories of how military service dogs have positively impacted veterans and military families

Veterans in the Community — examples of how veterans can continue to advocate for our military service men and women following their service in the military

“We all owe a great debt to our military personnel who have served, and who are continuing to serve around the world in defense of our great country, and the many freedoms we enjoy every day. We hope these stories move, motivate, educate and entertain our 22 million veterans, 89 million direct military family members and patriotic supporters.” Visit Salute to Veterans to learn more about the veterans series.

Financial health is a cornerstone of Navy Federal’s mission of serving and enriching lives within the military community, and a key component of Navy Federal’s Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy is financial wellness. Building wealth takes consistent action over time, and we’re here to support you at every stage of this exciting journey. Continue to educate yourself about financial topics like savings, budgeting and investing with our MakingCents resources at navyfederal.org/makingcents.html.

Established in 1933 with only 7 members, Navy Federal now has the distinct honor of serving over 12.3 million members globally and is the world’s largest credit union. Membership is open to all Department of Defense and Coast Guard Active Duty, veterans, civilian and contractor personnel, and their families. For more information about Navy Federal Credit Union, visit navyfederal.org.

At Verizon, we’re proud to support our brave men and women and the families who stand beside them. It’s our honor and privilege to keep military families connected, with special discounts for the military community — including active duty service members, veterans and Gold Star families. Get great deals on your mobile, internet or bundle them both for extra savings. For more information, visit verizon.com/military/.

Verizon Simplicity Plan. One plan. One price. Our best network. Just $30/line/month after Auto Pay and switch discount. Simplicity Plan gives you everything you want in a plan — 5G Unlimited Ultra Wideband, unlimited data, talk & text, Verizon Dollars and lots more. For more information, visit verizon.com/plans/unlimited.

2026-07-01T11:01:00

(BPT) – After his life shifted into retirement at 68, John (not his actual name) expected to feel relief.

Instead, after the first few months of feeling open and flexible, his days became harder to navigate. He still exercised, ran errands and kept up with friends. Yet mornings stretched longer, and evenings arrived without much to distinguish one day from the next.

There was no single shift that caused concern. He felt a gradual drifting, and the questions that followed were practical: How do I organize my days now? What is this next chapter for?

‘I could keep going, or I could turn back’

Victor Strecher, PhD and professor at University of Michigan School of Public Health, had grappled with those same questions too, but for entirely different reasons.

In 1990, Vic’s newborn daughter Julia became seriously ill from a heart condition. Doctors told him she might have only a month or two to live. There was a slim chance for a heart transplant, but the odds were daunting. Even if Julia lived only a few years, Vic and his wife asked themselves whether they could still give her a life worth living.

They decided they could. Vic shifted his focus from career milestones to what would make her days full.

Julia survived into young adulthood, but at 19, she died unexpectedly. Vic lost his footing. Grief showed up as a numb routine: hours of television, drinking, a sense of dissolving.

One early morning, he climbed into a kayak on Lake Michigan and paddled out alone in the dark. As the sun rose and the water turned glassy, he sensed a choice. “I could keep going, or I could turn back,” he said. “But if I turned back, I would have to live differently.”

He turned back. “I went home, pulled out a sheet of paper and wrote, ‘Vic, you have to help yourself.’ Then I asked: ‘What are you going to do?'”

He listed what mattered most — family, friends — then asked what mattered at work. His answer came quickly: his students. Vic called his university and asked to return to teaching. He committed to teaching every student as if they were his daughter.

Rebuilding a relationship with purpose

Without realizing it, Vic had begun rebuilding his relationship with purpose. He found having purpose changed not just the course of his life, but also the quality. He found greater clarity, a deeper connection, and more meaningful intentions.

“Purpose helps you organize what matters most. It directs your attention and energy toward that,” Vic said.

When he researched the impact of purpose in other people’s lives, he found the science backed him up.

In one study, participants wore identical 25-pound backpacks and estimated how steep a ramp appeared. One group was told the backpack was “dead weight.” The other was told it carried important scientific equipment. Although both packs weighed the same, those who believed the load had meaning perceived the slope as less steep.

Other research linked a stronger sense of purpose with healthier coping strategies. People with greater purpose were more likely to walk, spend time in nature, engage in meaningful rituals and step back during stress. They were less likely to rely on habits that dulled stress in the moment. Studies following people after large-scale trauma found that those who rebuilt purpose showed greater resilience over time.

“When you have a sense of purpose, you’re more likely to step back, see the bigger picture and remember this won’t last forever.”

An app for positive, lasting change

Surprisingly, Vic found purpose isn’t a heroic vision or single-minded vocation a person is born with. It’s a skill that can be clarified and strengthened, shaping daily behavior.

Always a teacher, Vic began looking for ways to share what he had learned. He wrote the book, “Life On Purpose”, gave TED Talks and lectures including at Harvard School of Public Health, structured two online courses rated 4th best in the world by Inc. Magazine, and conducted pioneering research on life purpose, cited in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

In 2015, together with a team of psychologists, behavior designers and data scientists, he launched Kumanu (meaning “nourish” in Maori), a company designed to help people and organizations thrive by connecting deeply to what matters most through its app, Purposeful.

The app is based on decades of research across behavioral science, neuroscience, public health and organizational psychology and more than 1,400 scientific studies. It prompts users to address the aspects of their lives they’d like help with, and guides users through the same steps he took to create positive, lasting change: identifying values, writing a purpose statement and building habits that align with it.

Identifying values, such as family, health, faith, creativity, learning or service, creates direction. Putting those values into words shapes daily choices. From there, small practices create rhythm: a morning intention, a brief reflection, a consistent commitment. The consistency matters more than the scale.

“Users of Purposeful tend to be people who are going through transitions in their lives,” Vic says. “I like to say you usually need to rethink your purpose when you need a Hallmark card.”

What matters most now?

For users like John, it was exactly what they needed.

“Getting on Purposeful is part of my morning routine,” a user said in a recent survey. “I have only missed a couple of days in the last year … it has really helped me stay in the present and be more focused and mindful about my days, relationships and my life.”

For others navigating loss, like Vic, the structure has been equally meaningful. The app “gave me a place to share my grief and trauma of loss and channel it toward a meaningful experience … a helpful reminder to keep me connected and do basic self-care tasks,” another respondent said.

For both, the shift began with the question “what matters most now?”, choosing a direction and returning to it, one day at a time.

To learn more, listen to Vic’s podcast, PurposeCast, where he explores the science and stories behind living with purpose. You can also try the Purposeful app with a free account — no credit card required. For those who choose to upgrade, a limited-time discount is available on Purposeful Premium: 29% off ($4.16 per month, billed annually at $49.99). Cancel anytime.

Photo above: Victor Strecher (R), with his daughter Julia Strecher (L) and wife Jeri Rosenberg.