Category: Brandpoint Health

2025-03-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – How often do you think about your indoor air quality? While many might assume the risk of encountering pollutants and allergens only exists outside, these harmful toxins can’t be left at the door and can actually pose an unseen threat in your home, your office and even your car.

Even the cleanest indoor spaces can have harmful particles wafting around the air. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, pollutants are two to five times more concentrated indoors, where Americans spend approximately 90% of their time.

From dust to dander to pollen and smoke, outdoor pollutants and indoor allergens can invade your personal spaces through the tiniest of entry points and negatively impact your health. Sustained exposure to poor air quality can lead to more serious health conditions.

Luckily, indoor air quality is something you can control. Take a look at these five simple tips that you can try to improve the air quality in your most frequented spaces so you can breathe easier and live healthier.

1. Vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter

Dust, allergens and pollutants can accumulate on your floors, carpets, car seats and more, and become airborne during daily activity. To promote healthier air quality, vacuum frequently using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

When it comes to indoor air quality, HEPA filters are the gold standard. According to the Allergy & Asthma Network, these filters are designed to capture 99.7% of all particles 0.3 microns or smaller, including mold, pet dander, dust mites, pollen and some small particles from smoke and pollution.

Aim to vacuum the whole house once a week and high-traffic areas, like the kitchen, entryway and living room, two to three times a week. As for your car, give the seats and carpets a good vacuum about once a month.

2. Clean your car often

Have you considered your car’s indoor air quality? Whether you spend hours commuting or making several quick trips around town, improving your in-car air quality is crucial. In addition to making changes like recirculating the air in the car instead of bringing polluted air from outdoors, you can improve your car’s indoor air quality by cleaning it often.

Much like your home, your car accumulates dust. The American Lung Association recommends regularly wiping down the console, dashboard and door panels to reduce these and other air contaminants. Don’t forget to vacuum the upholstery, floor and mats to get rid of dirt and debris.

3. Use air purifiers

One of the easiest ways to improve your indoor air quality is to use air purifiers throughout your house. These portable air cleaners draw in air and filter out allergens and pollutants, improving the health of your home.

Choose an effective model, such as the Bosch Air Series Purifier — which uses a 3-in-1 filter (including a HEPA layer) to remove over 99% of the impurities in the air, such as pollen, pet dander, dust, viruses and odors. Each purifier features smart sensors that detect pollutants and automatically adapt to the air quality and room. These quiet purifiers are available in three different sizes, so you can find the strength that best suits your needs.

4. Change air filters regularly (and not just in your home!)

Don’t go too long in between changing your air filters. These key components are essential in protecting the air around you — not just in your home, but in your car, too. Many drivers either aren’t aware of their car’s cabin air filter at all or don’t realize they need to replace it regularly, just as they replace the filter on their in-home HVAC unit. Over time, the particles the filter traps build up, clogging it and reducing its efficiency. To ensure you have continuous clean air, change your filters as often as your owner’s manual recommends.

If your car mechanic has recently mentioned it’s time to change the cabin air filter in your car, products like Bosch HEPA Cabin Air Filters can be a great solution for absorbing fumes, pollen, dust, mold spores, pollutants and odors that enter a vehicle, protecting you and other passengers from poor air quality.

Bosch recommends replacing your cabin air filter every 12,000 miles or so. You can find the cabin air filter behind the glove compartment or under the dashboard.

5. Use natural products

What you use to clean your home and car may actually be polluting your air, as many conventional cleaning products are made with harsh chemicals.

Air fresheners can also be a source of hazardous pollutants. Be it a cardboard freshener hanging around your rearview mirror or a plug-in freshener in your living room, these products have been known to emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that could compromise your health.

You can keep your spaces clean and minimize toxic chemicals in the air you breathe by opting for natural products. The next time you visit the store, look for nontoxic air fresheners and green or eco-friendly cleaning products that contain natural, plant-based ingredients.

Using these five simple tips, you can improve your in-home and in-car air quality and keep it clean for seasons to come.

2025-03-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – From the dazzling runways of New York Fashion Week to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood red carpets, among star athletes and mega-influencers, a striking trend has taken center stage: embracing the beauty of the bald head. An increasing number of men — and women — are making unique, fashionable statements with their daring new looks, and there’s no doubt about it: Bald heads are definitely turning heads.

Going bald can elevate your style game

The bald look has the potential to unlock a sense of confidence, authenticity and originality that few other looks can rival. Ditching the focus on hair shines a spotlight on a person’s captivating eyes, unique head shape or striking facial features, which can lead to a transformation in their overall appearance and how they greet the world around them.

Discover the advantages of rocking the hairless style and learn how to craft your own unique look with this trend.

Say goodbye to bad hair days

To effortlessly attain — and maintain — your new look, turn to the Remington^® Balder Ultimate Head Shaver. This grooming tool empowers you to achieve your desired look quickly and easily, complete with an integrated pop-up trimmer for further styling flexibility.

This shaver’s 5X dual track blade-cutting heads and pivoting neck provide maximum skin contact for even all-over results. Moreover, its new Turbo Speed Mode delivers a boost of power to cut through denser areas of hair with just the touch of a button. Best yet, with the Remington^® Balder Ultimate Head Shaver you can achieve a comfortable, skin-close shave in under two minutes.*

You’ll get up to 60 minutes of cordless use — over one month of use on a single charge. The shaver is also 100% waterproof, so you can shave your way. It’s also easy to clean, with the less mess hair pocket. Cut hair collects in a chamber underneath the shaver heads for easy disposal and cleanup. The Remington^® Balder Ultimate Head Shaver also comes with a protective head guard, premium zippered storage case and cleaning brush. You can trust the #1 brand of head shavers in the U.S.** to be your ultimate grooming ally.

Tips for mastering your bald look

When you’re ready to dive into the bald trend, familiarize yourself with your shaver’s instructions for optimal results.

• Begin by trimming your hair as short as possible.
• You can use your shaver dry or wet, but it may help to shower to soften your hair, or to use a pre-shave oil or gel.
• Shave by following the contour of your head with the shaver in the direction of your hair growth to minimize irritation.
• After shaving, soothe your skin with a moisturizer.

Once you’ve achieved your celebrity-worthy bald appearance, maintain it with periodic touchups using your Remington^® Balder Ultimate Head Shaver whenever needed.

Adopting the bald trend grants you the freedom to elevate your own fashion sense in new, unique ways through how you style your facial hair, clothes and accessories. Using the Remington^® Balder Ultimate Head shaver, you’ll be joining the many bold, confident individuals who have proudly embraced the beauty of the bald head.

*based on 2-day growth.
**Source: Circana, Retail Tracking Service, U.S. Unit Sales, 12 months ending April 2024.

2025-03-10T11:51:00

(BPT) – As an avid skier, Mike was alarmed when he unexpectedly started experiencing pain in his lower extremities and back that prevented him from hitting the slopes. At the time, he had no way to know that this pain would set him on a path to a diagnosis of active psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a chronic inflammatory disease that can cause symptoms including joint pain, stiffness and swelling.¹

Active PsA is frequently undiagnosed and affects up to 1% of the U.S. population,^2,3 including up to 30% of people with psoriasis (PsO),⁴ another inflammatory condition that occurs when the immune system is overactive, resulting in thick, scaly patches, called plaques, on the skin.⁵ Collectively, active PsA and PsO are known as psoriatic disease.

“I’m pretty active and try to stay in shape, so when this unexplained pain started to interfere with my passions like skiing and playing the piano, as well as my ability to quickly perform simple daily tasks like buttoning my shirt, I knew I needed to visit my doctor to get to the bottom of it,” Mike reflects. “Originally, my doctor told me I had psoriatic arthritis, and I quickly learned that this was something I was going to have to deal with for the rest of my life.”

Unfortunately, by the time Mike received this psoriatic arthritis diagnosis, his condition had progressed to the point that his hands were significantly impacted by the joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Additionally, about a year later, he started developing psoriasis lesions on the skin. The lesions first appeared on his ankles, legs and calves, and then later on sensitive areas of his body like his scalp.

“I was very concerned when the skin lesions started to appear. Since it was a while after my diagnosis, I wasn’t aware that they might have been caused by my psoriatic arthritis,” Mike shares.

Mike’s TREMFYA^® Journey

Mike began working with his primary care doctor, rheumatologist, and dermatologist to find a treatment plan that could address his active PsA and his psoriasis lesions.

Mike tried a number of medications to address his PsA symptoms, but, over time, he was unable to keep his symptoms at bay and stopped responding to them. Mike’s rheumatologist suggested he try a biologic, a medication that can target overactive cells in the immune system and that can help improve active PsA symptoms. He was prescribed TREMFYA^® (guselkumab), a prescription medicine approved to treat adults with active PsA.

Since starting TREMFYA^®, Mike has noticed improvements in his symptoms, specifically joint pain, stiffness and swelling. Mike was able to go back to doing things that meant so much to him such as playing the piano. And, for his husband, that has meant doing some of the things they had to put on hold, like traveling, without having to worry about how his symptoms might impact their ability to explore and fully enjoy the experience together.

Mike also saw clearing of psoriasis lesions on his skin, which provided a sense of relief to not have to constantly explain that his disease was not contagious to others. Mike notes, “thankfully, I had the support of my husband, family and friends who were understanding of my condition and didn’t make me feel self-conscious, which I am extremely grateful for.”

In two active PsA medical studies, more than 5 out of 10 patients treated with TREMFYA^® had at least a 20% improvement in joint pain, stiffness, and swelling at 24 weeks compared with placebo.⁶ Additionally, at 24 weeks, people taking TREMFYA^® showed an overall improvement in their ability to perform daily activities such as getting dressed, eating, and walking, which was assessed in Disability Index of Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ-DI).⁶ Some patients also reported improvement in PsA-related fatigue at 24 weeks as measured by the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy — Fatigue (FACIT-F), a questionnaire to measure self-reported tiredness, weakness, and difficulty conducting usual activities due to fatigue over the last seven days.^6,7 Furthermore, patients with active PsA who were treated with TREMFYA^® saw an improvement in psoriasis skin plaques at 24 weeks. Individual results may vary.

TREMFYA^® is not for everyone; only your doctor can decide if it’s right for you. Do not use if you are allergic to TREMFYA^®. TREMFYA^® is a prescription medicine that may cause serious side effects, including serious allergic reactions and infections. TREMFYA^® affects your immune system. It may increase your risk of infections and lower your ability to fight them. Please read the Important Safety Information below and the Medication Guide for TREMFYA^® available at www.tremfya.com to learn more about these and other risks for TREMFYA^®. Discuss any questions you have with your doctor.

The Importance of a Supportive Care Team

“Growing up as a Chinese American, I was taught to respect my doctors and follow their guidance without question,” Mike says. “I’m thankful that I’ve learned how to work collaboratively with my full healthcare team to come up with a treatment plan that worked for me.”

Along with support from his healthcare team and family, Mike enrolled in the TREMFYA withMe program, which offers education about TREMFYA^® and its administration, as well as one-on-one guidance and assistance related to insurance coverage or cost support options.

“I’m proof that you don’t have to struggle with a condition or just learn to live with it,” Mike shares. “I know how hard it sometimes can be to get the help you need — I’ve been there, and I’m here to tell you that you can find the right care and the appropriate treatment option. Don’t give up, and don’t be afraid to speak with your doctor about your needs to get the most from your conversations and develop a true partnership.”

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Sponsored by Johnson & Johnson

In consideration of the time Mike spent participating in this article, he was paid honoraria by Johnson & Johnson.

INDICATION

WHAT IS TREMFYA^® (guselkumab)?

TREMFYA^® is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet or UV light).

TREMFYA^® is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with active psoriatic arthritis.

TREMFYA^® is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA^®?

TREMFYA^® is a prescription medicine that may cause serious side effects, including:

• Serious Allergic Reactions. Stop using TREMFYA^® and get emergency medical help right away if you develop any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:

• Infections. TREMFYA^® may lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections and may increase your risk of infections. Your healthcare provider should check you for infections and tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment with TREMFYA^® and may treat you for TB before you begin treatment with TREMFYA^® if you have a history of TB or have active TB. Your healthcare provider should watch you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during and after treatment with TREMFYA^®.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection, including:

Do not take TREMFYA^® if you have had a serious allergic reaction to guselkumab or any of the ingredients in TREMFYA^®.

Before using TREMFYA^®, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have any of the conditions or symptoms listed in the section “What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA^®?”
• have an infection that does not go away or that keeps coming back.
• have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB.
• have recently received or are scheduled to receive an immunization (vaccine). You should avoid receiving live vaccines during treatment with TREMFYA^®.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if TREMFYA^® can harm your unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry: If you become pregnant during treatment with TREMFYA^®, talk to your healthcare provider about registering in the pregnancy exposure registry for TREMFYA^®. You can enroll by visiting www.mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/tremfya-guselkumab, by calling 1-877-311-8972, or emailing MotherToBaby@health.ucsd.edu. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the safety of TREMFYA^® during pregnancy.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TREMFYA^® passes into your breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

What are the possible side effects of TREMFYA^®?

TREMFYA^® may cause serious side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about TREMFYA^®?”

The most common side effects of TREMFYA^® include: respiratory tract infections, headache, injection site reactions, joint pain (arthralgia), diarrhea, stomach flu (gastroenteritis), fungal skin infections, herpes simplex infections, and bronchitis.

These are not all the possible side effects of TREMFYA^®. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Use TREMFYA^® exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.

Please read the full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide, for TREMFYA^® and discuss any questions that you have with your doctor.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Dosage Forms and Strengths: TREMFYA^® is available in a 100 mg/mL prefilled syringe and One-Press patient-controlled injector for subcutaneous injection, a 200 mg/2 mL prefilled syringe and prefilled pen (TREMFYA^® PEN) for subcutaneous injection, and a 200 mg/20 mL (10 mg/mL) single dose vial for intravenous infusion.

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1. About psoriatic arthritis. National Psoriasis Foundation. Accessed January 8, 2025. https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriatic-arthritis/#:~:text=Psoriatic%20arthritis%20(PsA)%20is%20a,age%20and%20may%20affect%20children
2. Gladman DD, Antoni C, Mease P, et al. Psoriatic arthritis: epidemiology, clinical features, course, and outcome. Ann Rheum Dis. 2005;64 Suppl 2(Suppl 2):ii14-7. doi: 10.1136/ard.2004.032482; PMID: 15708927; PMCID: PMC1766874.
3. Mease PJ, Armstrong AW. Managing patients with psoriatic disease: the diagnosis and pharmacologic treatment of psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis. Drugs. 2014;74(4):423-441. doi: 10.1007/s40265-014-0191-y; PMID: 24566842; PMCID: PMC3958815
4. Mease PJ, Gladman DD, Papp KA, et al. Prevalence of rheumatologist-diagnosed psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis in European/North American dermatology clinics. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2013;69(5):729-735. Epub 2013 Aug 24. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2013.07.023; PMID: 23981683
5. Psoriasis. National Psoriasis Foundation. Accessed January 8, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840#:~:text=Psoriasis%20is%20a%20skin%20disease,make%20it%20hard%20to%20concentrate
6. TREMFYA^® [Prescribing Information]. Horsham, PA: Janssen Biotech, Inc.
7. FACIT-Fatigue. FACIT.org. Accessed February 27, 2025. https://www.facit.org/measures/facit-fatigue

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2025-03-07T08:31:00

(BPT) – Lindsay and Matt are both active members of the narcolepsy and sleep advocacy community, drawing from their personal, lived experiences to share with others what it’s like living with narcolepsy. Before they became advocates, each spent years trying to find an explanation for the symptoms they were experiencing and then adjusting to life after getting a narcolepsy diagnosis.

Lindsay lived with excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy for nearly 20 years before receiving her narcolepsy diagnosis at age 35. She recalls doubting her abilities and dedication to her job in politics, thinking, “Everyone is working long hours, everyone is tired…maybe I just don’t want it as much as they do.” But her diagnosis gave her the reason behind the sleepiness she was experiencing.

For Matt, symptoms became disruptive when he was 12 years old, but it wasn’t until he was 25 and a father of two that healthcare providers told him he had narcolepsy with cataplexy. He immediately set out to learn more about the disorder. At that time, there were very limited resources available to help him understand narcolepsy or to connect with others living with narcolepsy who could relate to his experiences.

Getting involved in the community

Matt continued to struggle for the next few years and thought that maybe giving back to others could be a good place to focus his efforts. He began reaching out to members of the narcolepsy community on social media and was excited when he got a response from Julie Flygare, the president and CEO of Project Sleep, who is also a person living with narcolepsy. Project Sleep is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about sleep health and sleep disorders.

Julie introduced Matt to Project Sleep’s Rising Voices program, which empowers people with sleep disorders to share their own stories and help spread awareness. As a dad living with narcolepsy, Matt knew he had a unique and important story to share. He started sharing his Rising Voices presentation, telling his story wherever he could to help drive awareness, but didn’t stop there. Matt began leading online support groups for Wake Up Narcolepsy, an organization focused on advocacy in the narcolepsy community, and was featured in one of their Narcolepsy 360 podcasts.

One of those online support groups was where Matt and Lindsay first crossed paths. After finally receiving a diagnosis, Lindsay was hesitant to share it with others. Her immediate reaction, which was unlike her typically expressive self, was to avoid telling anyone she was living with narcolepsy.

At an emotionally low point in her journey, Lindsay attended an online virtual support group meeting, and hearing Matt’s story gave her hope that things could get better. The two stayed in contact, and Matt encouraged Lindsay to get more involved in the community.

Becoming an advocate tapped into Lindsay’s lifelong passion for helping others, and she, too, went on to participate in Project Sleep’s Rising Voices program. As she opened up about her diagnosis with others, Lindsay realized that sharing her story was another way she could drive positive change in the world.

Leaning into her professional experience, Lindsay created programs to help raise awareness of narcolepsy, such as the first White House summit on sleep equity in November 2023. The summit focused on sleep health and gave people living with narcolepsy and other sleep disorders the opportunity to educate and share their lived experiences. Matt participated and spoke at the summit, creating a full-circle moment for these two advocates and friends.

We all have something unique to offer

There are many ways to learn more about narcolepsy, to help educate others, and to drive awareness about the disorder. Each person has their own individual skills and interests, and that is where their true strengths in advocacy can come through.

For anyone who feels overwhelmed, getting involved can start with one small step. Organizations like Project Sleep, Narcolepsy Network, and Wake Up Narcolepsy have a lot of information available and create opportunities for people living with narcolepsy to have their voices heard.

People living with narcolepsy can also reach out to others on social media and join an online group or page dedicated to people living with narcolepsy, or connect with someone they know from a support group, virtual or in person. Just as Matt and Lindsay joined together to support one another and make an impact to move things forward for the community, other people living with narcolepsy can work together to do the same.

When it comes to getting involved, people can start by helping to drive awareness about narcolepsy by having conversations with their family and friends. Sleep Awareness Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the connection between sleep, health, and well-being. Sleep Awareness Week is March 9-15, so now is the perfect time to get involved and share your unique story.

For more information about narcolepsy, you can visit KnowNarcolepsy.com. There are also narcolepsy resources and information on patient advocacy organizations, so be sure to check them out at KnowNarcolepsy.com/narcolepsy-resources.

Harmony Biosciences and logo are trademarks of
Harmony Biosciences Management, Inc. and are used herein by permission.
© 2025 Harmony Biosciences. All rights reserved.
US-NAR-2400153/Jan 2025

2025-02-28T12:01:00

(BPT) – Celebrated for its great taste, Florida Orange Juice also provides many nutritional benefits. Research suggests that regularly enjoying citrus fruits and 100% juices, such as 100% orange juice, as part of a heart-healthy diet, may help support healthy cholesterol levels and blood vessels^1-3, lower blood pressure^4,5 and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke^6,7.

Discover the heart-worthy benefits of the Original Wellness Drink™.

A Unique, Heart-Friendly Package of Nutrients in 8 ounces of 100% Orange Juice

• Sodium free and cholesterol free, with no added sugar, and includes vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds to help support heart health.
• 100% orange juice is world-renowned for being a great source of vitamin C — a powerful antioxidant that is important for skin and bone health, as well as immune system function.
• Along with vitamin C, 100% OJ includes essential vitamins and minerals such as potassium, folate and thiamin that may help adults and children meet key nutrient intake recommendations and support overall health:
• Potassium is a crucial mineral that is needed for the heart, kidneys, muscles and other organs to function properly.⁸
• Folate is essential for those who are pregnant, and as part of a well-balanced diet, may prevent cardiovascular disease in adults.⁹
• Thiamin plays an important role in energy metabolism for cell growth, development, and function.¹⁰

• Emerging research highlights hesperidin, a bioactive compound found almost exclusively in citrus, as having numerous health benefits.¹¹

A Perfect Match to Help Increase Your Fruit Intake

Meeting daily fruit recommendations can be quite a challenge and nine out of 10 Americans don’t get enough.¹² The good news is that the beverage staple you likely already have in your fridge — 100% orange juice — is a great way to help meet total fruit recommendations. It’s convenient, often more affordable, and includes key nutrients to support overall health. Plus, studies show that 100% orange juice drinkers tend to eat more whole fruit, making it a great complement to your diet.¹³

Visit FloridaJuice.com to learn more about The Original Wellness Drink™.

References:

1. Aptekmann et al. Maturitas. 2010;67:343-347.
2. Cesar et al. Nutr Res. 2010;30:689-694.
3. Dourado et al. Food Nutr Res. 2015;59:28147.
4. Asgary et al. ARYA Atheroscler. 2013;9:98-101.
5. Morand et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2011;93:73–80.
6. D’Elia et al. Eur J Nutr. 2021;60(5):2449-2467.
7. Scheffers et al. Public Health Nutrition. 2021;Mar 1:1-11.
8. Florida Department of Citrus. Potassium. Available at https://www.floridacitrus.org/oj/nutrition-facts/potassium/
9. Florida Department of Citrus. Folate. Available at https://www.floridacitrus.org/oj/nutrition-facts/folate/
10. Florida Department of Citrus. Thiamin. Available at https://www.floridacitrus.org/oj/nutrition-facts/thiamin/
11. Florida Department of Citrus. Hesperidin. Available at https://www.floridacitrus.org/oj/nutrition-facts/hesperidin/
12. Lee-Kwan SH, et al. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2017;66:1241–1247.
13. Benton and Young. Nut Rv. 2019;77(11):829-843.

2025-02-27T10:01:00

(BPT) – Have you ever thought, “I’m too young to get colon cancer”? The truth is that colorectal cancer (CRC) is affecting more younger adults than ever before. Despite this alarming trend, many people remain unaware of their risk. Since colon cancer isn’t exactly a topic for dinner table conversation, important discussions about family history often get overlooked. But understanding your risk and getting screened early could make all the difference.

That’s why health experts have taken action. In 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the recommended screening age to 45 to help detect CRC sooner. Still, many younger adults put off getting tested, either because they don’t know their risk, lack insurance coverage, or simply want to avoid the hassle of a colonoscopy.

So, if you’re worried about your digestive health or you are experiencing symptoms, what are your options? Even if you have health insurance, a colonoscopy is not always covered unless you meet specific criteria. Plus, the preparation and recovery can be time-consuming.

The good news? There are easier, less invasive options you can use at home — and one of them, Reese’s ColoTest, doesn’t even require a prescription.

With Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, now is a great time to learn about your screening options, and the benefits and drawbacks of each, to help stay ahead of the disease.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy has long been considered the ‘gold standard’ in CRC screening. It is recommended every ten years for adults 45 and older (or more frequently if you’re at high risk). Insurance is unlikely to cover a colonoscopy unless you’re eligible due to age or family history of colorectal cancer, polyps and conditions including ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s, Lynch Syndrome and others. Because a colonoscopy is a costly — and time-consuming — procedure involving days of unpleasant preparation, sedation and recovery, many people put it off. Learn more about colonoscopies and other screening methods at ColorectalCancer.org.

Stool DNA test

If you’re at average risk for CRC and 45 or over, you’ll need a prescription for an at-home stool DNA test kit. You then send the sample to a lab for results in a couple of weeks. This kind of test uses a combination of stool-based DNA and hemoglobin testing to detect abnormal cells that can indicate the presence of cancer. Most insurers cover the cost only if you’re 45 or older, but you should check your health insurance plan for specifics.

Blood tests

Recently approved blood-based screening tests can detect colorectal cancer by analyzing specific biomarkers in your blood. On the plus side, they can be combined with other routine blood work, but they do require going to the lab, getting stuck with a needle, and waiting for results. Since these tests are still relatively new and insurance coverage may vary, it’s a good idea to check with your provider.

FIT test

Fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) look for the presence of hidden blood in stool, offering a simple, non-invasive alternative for those hesitant about colonoscopies or interested in more frequent testing. Reese’s ColoTest, for example, is an affordable, easily accessible screening option available without a prescription. With just one stool sample and no prep or dietary restrictions, you can self-test at home as often as you like — without the hassle of lab processing.

Unlike some FIT tests that require sending a sample to a lab and waiting days for results, Reese’s ColoTest delivers results in just one minute. ColoTest is 98.8% accurate in detecting hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early warning sign for colorectal cancer and other conditions, including diverticulitis, gastrointestinal disorders, colitis and polyps. It’s available at pharmacy retailers nationwide and online, including Walmart, Amazon and over 7,000 CVS Pharmacy stores, plus on CVS.com.

“Researchers found that people who had FIT testing done every year had a 33% lower chance of dying from colorectal cancer,” said Jeffrey Reese, president of Reese Pharmaceutical. “FIT tests can be started at a younger age and repeated every year, providing earlier detection opportunities — especially for anyone with a higher risk.”

The bottom line? Screening for colorectal cancer has never been easier — or more important. Whether you choose a colonoscopy, a stool-based test or a simple FIT test, the key is to get screened. Early detection saves lives, and with new, more convenient options available, there’s no reason to put it off. To learn more, visit MyColoTest.com.

2025-02-26T06:01:00

(BPT) – In the revolving world of beauty and wellness, we are constantly on the lookout for innovative treatments that provide real, visible results.

Enter endermologie^®, developed by the scientists at LPG^®, based in the south of France. This novel technology has been a staple for savvy women and men who are looking for effective treatments that address their goals, without discomfort or downtime.

The patented motorized roller, flap and suction technology gently stimulate the skin and underlying tissues. This mechanical massage enhances circulation, encourages lymphatic drainage, and boosts collagen and elastin production. The result is smoother, firmer, healthier skin, and a more contoured physique.

“Our clients are looking for state-of-the-art options that deliver visible results for the face and body,” says Nicole Contos, owner of Smooth Synergy Medical Spa & Laser Center in New York City. “They keep coming back to experience the unique technology we offer that makes a real difference for their health and well-being. endermologie^® by LPG^® is a perennial favorite because they can achieve the visible results they are looking for.”

endermologie^® is FDA-cleared for the temporary reduction in the appearance of cellulite and is known for its ability to sculpt and tone the body without surgery or downtime. By stimulating the skin naturally, it offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional cosmetic procedures, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a holistic approach to beauty and wellness.

The application is not just limited to body contouring; it is also widely used for age-defying facial treatments for all skin types. The gentle suction and rolling technique improve circulation, reduce puffiness, and enhance skin elasticity, giving the face a more youthful, radiant glow. For individuals looking to combat signs of aging without injections or invasive procedures, endermologie^® provides a safe and effective solution.

Aleksandra Turlure and Rola Titizian, partners at The Contour Room™, in Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, and Agoura Hills, have been long-time proponents of the value of endermologie^® for their clients.

“We receive many heartwarming testimonials from our cherished clients who share their positive experiences with endermologie^®. Our clients report feeling lighter and rejuvenated with improved lymphatic drainage. It’s very rewarding to deliver results that make a difference for them,” says Aleksandra.

“Many clients see significant reduction in cellulite and dimpling on their legs after a series of treatments, which greatly boosts their self-confidence,” says Rola. “These results reflect their satisfaction and happiness following endermologie^®. It is immensely gratifying to witness the positive impact we are making for our clients with this best-in-class technology.”

Beyond the aesthetic benefits, endermologie^® is also a favorite choice for therapeutic effects. It can be used to help alleviate muscle tension, reduce water retention, and promote post-workout recovery. Athletes and wellness enthusiasts appreciate the deep-tissue stimulation that helps improve flexibility and overall physical well-being.

endermologie^® continues to be a favorite treatment among high-end gyms and spas, as well as plastic surgeons and dermatologists whose patients are seeking visible, natural results with no downtime. As more people are turning to non-invasive beauty solutions, this best-in-class, tried-and-true technology is a go-to for achieving a more youthful and healthier appearance.

To learn more about endermologie^® and find an LPG^® provider, visit lpg-group.com/en.

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2025-02-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – A rare disease is a disease, disorder, illness or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 Americans.¹ Since rare diseases impact a small number of people, they often remain relatively unknown among the broader population.

In honor of Rare Disease Day, on February 28, 2025, Biohaven, a biopharmaceutical company focused on treatments for diseases with significant unmet needs, is bringing attention to spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA), a rare, progressively debilitating neurodegenerative disease that affects approximately 15,000 people in the U.S. and 24,000 in Europe and the United Kingdom.²

NORD^®, the National Organization for Rare Disorders and official partner for Rare Disease Day in the U.S., is calling on the nation to “Show Your Stripes^®” to shed light on rare diseases and generate support for all people on a rare medical journey. Amy M., who has lived with SCA for the last eight years, is showing her stripes by sharing her story about living with a rare disease that has no cure or FDA-approved treatment options. According to Amy, living with SCA is like “living in a physical prison that deteriorates your ability to have others understand you.”

Amy, an accomplished lawyer, lived her life unaware of having the disease until she began noticing changes in her body that couldn’t be explained. She started losing her balance, falling a lot and struggled with everyday things like wearing high-heeled shoes and going up and down stairs. “It is jarring, to find what were once seemingly mundane experiences, like climbing stairs or putting shoes on, become some of my greatest physical hardships,” said Amy. “And while the physical challenges that come with SCA are numerous, for me, the mental burden of this disease is what I have the most difficulty coming to terms with. I don’t want to accept the fact I could soon be in a wheelchair, without the ability to write or speak clearly, my independence stolen by SCA. But because there are no treatment options available for me, my only choice is to come to terms with my disease.”

SCA is a devastating disease that impacts all aspects of a person’s life as well as their family. People with SCA experience significant morbidity, including progression to a wheelchair, impaired gait leading to falls, inability to communicate due to speech impairment, difficulty swallowing, and premature death. While signs and symptoms can appear anytime from childhood to late adulthood, SCA typically presents in early adulthood and progresses over a number of years.

SCA is just one of the 10,000 rare diseases that have minimal or no treatment options.¹ With 25-30 million Americans living with rare diseases,¹ it’s crucial to continue to invest in research that offers hope to people living with diseases with significant unmet need. Biohaven currently has a New Drug Application under review with the FDA for a new treatment candidate for SCA.

Join Amy this Rare Disease Day by visiting NORD^® and “showing your stripes” to show support for those living with rare diseases. To learn more about SCA and how Biohaven is reinforcing their commitment to help people like Amy through innovative research, visit Biohaven.com.

References

1. NORD^® Rare Disease Database. National Organization for Rare Disorders. Available at https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/. Accessed on February 4, 2025.
2. Biohaven Reports Positive Phase 1 Degrader Data, Achieving Deep Targeted IgG Reductions in the Lowest Subcutaneous Dose Tested; Announces NDA Submission for Troriluzole in SCA and Provides Other Key Program Updates. December 16, 2024.

2025-02-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – Each year on the last day of February, people living with rare diseases—along with caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, and others—come together to drive meaningful change and push for equitable care on Rare Disease Day.

With nearly 300 million people worldwide affected by rare diseases, this global movement amplifies the voices of those living with diseases that often go unrecognized. The European Organization for Rare Diseases (EURORDIS) founded Rare Disease Day in 2008, choosing February 29—a rare calendar date—to symbolize the nature of these diseases. Since then, EURORDIS, in collaboration with over 65 global organizations, has worked tirelessly to raise awareness, foster community, and advocate for better resources.

For the estimated 77,000 to 115,000 people in the U.S. living with hypoparathyroidism (hypopara), Rare Disease Day is an opportunity to shine a light on this often-misunderstood disease and the need for improved awareness, diagnosis, and treatment—including an available FDA-approved treatment option that directly addresses the disease’s root cause.

What is Hypopara?

Hypopara is a rare endocrine disease caused by insufficient levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH)—a key hormone that regulates calcium and phosphate levels in the bone, kidney, and intestine. Without enough PTH, the body struggles to maintain normal calcium balance, leading to symptoms like muscle cramps, tingling, brain fog, fatigue, and even seizures.

Approximately 75% of chronic hypopara cases occur due to accidental damage to or removal of the parathyroid glands during neck surgery, such as a thyroidectomy, while other causes stem from genetic and/or autoimmune conditions, or secondary or unknown causes.

Despite knowledge of what causes hypopara, it remains both underdiagnosed and undertreated, largely due to a lack of awareness among healthcare providers—and, until recently, lack of reliably available PTH-based therapies.

Challenges of Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing hypopara can be challenging because its symptoms often overlap with other common medical conditions. For example, postsurgical patients may not show symptoms immediately, and the disease may only be detected during routine checkups or when healthcare providers investigate concerns like fatigue or muscle aches. Since these symptoms are nonspecific, hypopara can often be overlooked.

Historically, treatment options have been limited. For years, patients have been prescribed conventional therapy, which consists of active vitamin D and calcium, to manage some symptoms. However, conventional therapy does not address the missing PTH and may result in a high pill burden for patients.

FDA-Approved Treatment

YORVIPATH^® is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for hypopara in adults in the U.S. YORVIPATH is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with low parathyroid hormone (PTH). This ready-to-use, once-daily injection provides continuous exposure to active PTH throughout the 24-hour dosing period.

The safety and effectiveness of YORVIPATH have not been established in individuals recently diagnosed with hypoparathyroidism following surgery or those with low calcium levels at the start of treatment. Additionally, its use is not recommended in children or young adults with developing bones. YORVIPATH may lead to high or low calcium levels in the blood or possible bone cancer. For more detailed safety information, please refer to the end of this article.

Unlike conventional therapy that relies on high doses of calcium and active vitamin D, YORVIPATH directly addresses the root cause of the disease. The goal of treatment with YORVIPATH is to maintain serum calcium levels in the normal range without the need for active vitamin D or therapeutic calcium doses. However, patients can continue taking calcium supplements as needed to meet their daily dietary requirements.

Community and Advocacy

To assist patients in starting and continuing treatment, the Ascendis Signature Access Program^® (A•S•A•P) offers patient support with treatment initiation, insurance issues, and ongoing adherence. This program provides services to eligible patients prescribed YORVIPATH for its approved indication.

For those living with hypopara, connecting with advocacy organizations and patient support groups can offer community as well as essential resources and education. Organizations like the HypoPARAthyroidism Association help build this community and are dedicated to empowering patients through education, advocacy, and support.

This Rare Disease Day, raising awareness about hypopara is crucial to improving early diagnosis, expanding treatment awareness, and enhancing support for those affected. By fostering greater understanding and advocacy, we can drive meaningful change and improve lives.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION AND USE

What is the most important information I should know about YORVIPATH^®?

YORVIPATH may cause serious side effects, including:

• High levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia). YORVIPATH can cause some people to have higher blood calcium levels than normal. Your healthcare provider should check your blood calcium before you start and during your treatment with YORVIPATH. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have nausea, vomiting, dizziness, feeling thirsty, confusion, muscle weakness, or irregular heartbeat. Hypercalcemia is more likely to occur within the first 3 months of starting YORVIPATH, but it may occur at any time.

• Low levels of calcium in the blood (hypocalcemia). People who stop using, miss, or change a dose of YORVIPATH may have an increased risk of low blood calcium levels, but hypocalcemia may occur at any time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have tingling in your fingertips, toes, lips or tongue, muscle spasms or cramps, oral numbness, depression, have problems thinking or remembering, abnormal heart rhythms, or seizures.

• Possible bone cancer (osteosarcoma). Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have pain in any areas of your body that does not go away or any new or unusual lumps or swelling under your skin that is tender to touch. These are some of the signs and symptoms of osteosarcoma and your healthcare provider may need to do further tests.

Who should not take YORVIPATH?

Do not use YORVIPATH if you are allergic to palopegteriparatide or any of the other ingredients in YORVIPATH.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking YORVIPATH?

Before using YORVIPATH, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• are at higher risk of a type of bone cancer called osteosarcoma. This is especially important:
  • if you have a bone disease that increases your risk of developing osteosarcoma (including if you have Paget’s disease).
  • if a blood test shows that you have unexplained increases in bone alkaline phosphatase.
  • if you have cancer of the bones or other cancer that has spread to your bones.
  • if you are having or have had radiation therapy to the skeleton.
  • if you are affected with a condition that runs in your family that can increase your chance of getting cancer in your bones.

• take medicines that contain digoxin, are used to treat osteoporosis, or can affect calcium levels in your blood.

• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if YORVIPATH will harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant during treatment with YORVIPATH.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if YORVIPATH passes into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby during treatment with YORVIPATH.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. YORVIPATH and other medicines may affect each other causing side effects.

What are the possible side effects of YORVIPATH?

YORVIPATH may cause serious side effects:

• Allergic (hypersensitivity) reaction, including anaphylaxis. Stop taking YORVIPATH and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency medical help right away if you have swelling of your face, lips, mouth, or tongue, breathing problems, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood pressure), fast heartbeat, itching, rash, or hives.

• Decrease in blood pressure when you change positions (orthostatic hypotension). Some people may feel dizzy, get a fast heartbeat, or feel light-headed right after injecting YORVIPATH. For the first few doses, give your injection of YORVIPATH in a place where you can sit or lie down right away if you get these symptoms. If your symptoms get worse or do not go away, contact your healthcare provider before you continue using YORVIPATH.

• Digoxin toxicity if you are using digoxin and YORVIPATH at the same time. Tell your healthcare provider if you experience irregular heart rhythm, heart palpitations, confusion, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or vision problems.

The most common side effects of YORVIPATH include injection site reactions, vasodilatory signs or symptoms such as a drop in blood pressure or lightheadedness when standing up, headache, diarrhea, back pain, high calcium levels, and sore throat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of YORVIPATH. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report side effects to FDA?www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Ascendis Pharma at 1-844-442-7236.

What is YORVIPATH used for?

YORVIPATH is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with low parathyroid hormone (PTH) (hypoparathyroidism).

• It is not known if YORVIPATH is safe and effective in people who have been recently diagnosed with hypoparathyroidism after surgery, or if it is started in people with low levels of calcium in the blood.

• It is not known if YORVIPATH is safe and effective in children.

• YORVIPATH should not be used in children and young adults whose bones are still growing.

Please click here for full Prescribing Information for YORVIPATH and Medication Guide.

For more information about YORVIPATH, please visit www.yorvipath.com or call +1 844-442-7236.