Category: Brandpoint Health

2026-02-27T08:01:00

(BPT) – Most of the time, you don’t think about your heartbeat. It works quietly in the background of your day. But sometimes your heart’s rhythm sends important cues from your body.

Heart rhythms can tell a story with the power to change a life.

You may notice heart palpitations, sensations like fluttering, pounding or skipped beats. Heart palpitations are common¹, accounting for 16% of visits to primary care physicians, and are the second leading cause of visits to cardiologists.² While experiencing these can feel scary, these fluttery sensations are common and often harmless, caused by temporary stressors. But in some cases, they can signal an arrhythmia.

An arrhythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm where your heart may beat too quickly, too slowly or irregularly, and it’s a condition that requires medical attention.

But not all arrhythmias cause noticeable symptoms. In fact, some people are asymptomatic, meaning they feel nothing at all. Up to one-third of people with atrial fibrillation, or Afib, a common arrhythmia with an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm, are asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis.³ It is estimated that up to 27 million Americans may be at risk for undiagnosed arrhythmias.⁴

Even without symptoms, untreated arrhythmias can damage the heart, brain or other organs⁵ and may increase the risk of stroke or death.⁶

Understanding your risk and the importance of early detection

How can you do better by your heart? The good news is that arrhythmias can be highly treatable, especially when they are identified early. Taking steps to understand your heart health can make a meaningful difference. And that includes early detection and treatment of arrhythmias to reduce the burden of cardiac disease.⁷

One way to support early detection is by understanding your personal risk factors and discussing them with your healthcare provider. You can also reduce certain risk factors that are associated with arrhythmias. Risk factors for arrhythmia include heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, sleep apnea, alcohol use and family history.⁸

While arrhythmias and related conditions are more common in adults over age 60⁹, they’re not limited to older populations. AFib, as an example, has historically been associated with aging. However, emerging research shows that there has been an increase in younger patients getting diagnosed with AFib.¹⁰

A medical evaluation may include heart rhythm monitoring to better understand what’s happening with your heart. In some cases, physicians may recommend heart rhythm monitoring based on a patient’s risk factors, even if noticeable symptoms are not present.

A path forward

The path to getting a diagnosis and understanding your specific arrhythmia hasn’t always been easy.

Not long ago, determining whether you had an arrhythmia required a visit to a hospital or clinic for an electrocardiogram, or ECG. Because arrhythmia episodes often come and go and must be recorded while they are occurring, a brief in-clinic ECG could miss an episode. In some cases, repeat testing was needed, or the condition went undetected.

Holter monitors, wired devices introduced decades ago and typically worn for 24 to 48 hours, are sometimes still used to evaluate heart rhythm. However, because many arrhythmias occur intermittently, these shorter monitoring periods may not always capture and record an episode because some people could go days or weeks without an episode. In fact, three out of four patients who use a Holter monitor do not get a diagnosis on the first test.¹¹

Some consumer wearable devices and smartwatches can detect irregular pulse patterns and may alert you to seek medical attention. While these tools can be helpful in prompting follow-up, they do not lead to a medical diagnosis. If you receive an alert from a smartwatch or wearable device, follow up with your healthcare provider. A medical-grade ECG is typically needed for your doctor to confirm and formally diagnose or rule out an arrhythmia.

Modern medical-grade ECG monitors can now be worn at home and continuously record your heart’s electrical signal for longer than 24 to 48 hours if your doctor prescribes it.

One example is the Zio^® ECG monitoring service, which includes a small wearable patch device designed to record heart rhythm data during normal daily activities without wires or battery changes during the wear period. Zio ECG monitoring devices can record heart rhythm continuously for up to 14 days, helping physicians diagnose arrhythmias more accurately.

Advances in heart rhythm monitoring are making it easier for physicians to detect arrhythmias that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Paying attention to your heart’s rhythm, especially if you have symptoms or risk factors, can help ensure you receive appropriate care. If you have concerns, talk with your healthcare provider about whether further evaluation is right for you.

Your heart’s story is worth knowing. With the right tools and care, it can be a long and healthy one.

2026-02-27T05:01:00

(BPT) – Colon cancer is common and it’s preventable. Early detection saves lives. Have you been putting your colonoscopy off?

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, behind only lung cancer. The National Cancer Institute estimates that 154,270 people in the U.S. received a colorectal cancer diagnosis in 2025 and approximately 52,900 died from the disease.

The good news is that many colon or rectum cancers are preventable thanks to colonoscopies. This type of cancer screening allows gastroenterologists to find and remove precancerous growths called polyps before they develop into cancer. Plus, if your doctor finds cancer, they can remove it at its early stages, when treatment is more likely to be successful.

This March — during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month — the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) urges you to get screened for colorectal cancer. If you’re anxious about getting a colonoscopy, you’re not alone, and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) can make the procedure a pain-free experience.

Why CRNAs are key to a successful colonoscopy

CRNAs (also known as nurse anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists) play a critical role in making colonoscopy safe, comfortable and accessible. They are advanced practice registered nurses who have extensive training in anesthesia and airway management. CRNAs safely administer more than 58.5 million anesthetics to patients each year in the United States.

CRNAs practice in:

• Hospitals
• Ambulatory surgery centers
• Rural and underserved areas

In many communities — especially rural America — CRNAs are the primary anesthesia professionals. Without them, access to colonoscopies and other procedures could be delayed or limited.

Before your procedure, your CRNA will take a full medical history, review your medications and explain your anesthesia plan.

CRNAs provide monitored anesthesia care (MAC) to keep a patient comfortable, pain-free and breathing on their own so the gastroenterologist can focus fully on the colonoscopy, improving procedural efficiency. Commonly used drugs for sedation are propofol, benzodiazepine and narcotics. Ultimately, it will be the CRNA’s determination on what to use and how much to titrate to get the intended effect.

During the colonoscopy, your CRNA will remain with you through the procedure — watching over you with vigilance. They will administer one of three types of sedation:

Moderate sedation: Sometimes referred to as twilight anesthesia or conscious sedation, this type of sedation uses benzodiazepine and an opioid delivered to a patient via IV. When under moderate sedation, patients are very relaxed, sleepy and often have no memory of the procedure, though they can still respond to verbal commands.

Deep sedation: This type of sedation uses propofol — a fast-acting, short-duration medication — that is also administered via an IV. When under deep sedation, many patients sleep through the colonoscopy, are able to breathe on their own, and typically don’t remember the procedure when they wake up.

General anesthesia: This type of anesthesia is rarely used for routine colonoscopies and is done in a hospital setting. Patients are fully unconscious, requiring a breathing tube.

Once you’ve been anesthetized, the gastroenterologist will perform the colonoscopy, and the CRNA continuously titrates the medication and monitors your vitals. If clinically appropriate, the CRNA can adjust your anesthesia for a lighter sedation. Although rare, if the moderate or deep sedation is not effective for the procedure or in the event of an emergency, the CRNA is always equipped to maintain your airway and convert your anesthetic to a general one.

Most procedures take as little as 20 minutes; however, this can vary and is patient-dependent. Once the procedure is over, the CRNA will stop administering the medication and will let it naturally wear off and allow you to wake up in recovery. You will continue to be monitored until you are fully awake. Typically, patients are discharged the same day and must have a reliable family member or friend to drive them home.

When you get screened, you’re in good hands

Colonoscopies have been proven to save lives. With a CRNA administering your anesthesia, you will be comfortable and safely monitored. Schedule your colonoscopy today. You can help prevent or treat colorectal cancer before it spreads or develops.

To learn more about CRNAs and their role during colonoscopy and other surgical procedures, visit https://www.aana.com/about-us/about-crnas.

2026-02-26T13:16:03

(BPT) – Fire safety experts are urging Americans to “Take C.H.A.R.G.E.” of lithium-ion battery safety after data reveals alarming gaps in public awareness and a spike in battery-related incidents at home and while traveling.

According to UL Standards & Engagement, 50% of Americans admit they don’t know anything about lithium-ion battery dangers, despite these batteries powering many modern devices from smartphones to e-bikes. Even more concerning: 60% of travelers don’t realize how prevalent these batteries are in everyday items.

The warning comes as airlines reported lithium-ion battery thermal runaway incidents on an average of two flights per week in 2024. Of the thermal runaway incidents occurring on planes, one in five forced a diverted landing, return to gate, emergency evacuation, or unplanned deplaning.

The Travel Connection

It’s important to know how to travel safely with lithium-ion battery-powered devices. Most travelers carry four lithium-ion battery devices: smartphones (81%), laptops (40%), wireless headphones (38%), and tablets (35%).

Lithium-ion batteries store energy more densely than traditional batteries. When damaged, improperly charged, or overheated, they can enter thermal runaway and spark, explode, or cause fire.

“Recent spikes in lithium-ion battery incidents in transit environments have underscored the need to expand public education,” said Nicole Sanders, Public Education Lead for UL Research Institutes.

Six Essential Safety Steps

Follow the Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety steps for how to properly handle, store and charge lithium-ion battery-powered devices:

1. Choose Certified Products: Prioritize your safety by selecting lithium-ion battery-powered devices certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to ensure they meet important safety requirements.
2. Handle with Care: Always follow manufacturer guidelines and use the provided charger for lithium-ion battery-powered devices. Avoid modifying batteries or chargers and charge your devices in safe environments away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight and flammable materials. Never charge under a pillow, blanket or in a bag. It’s also important to unplug devices at home and pay attention to size limitations from transit providers before embarking on a trip.
3. Always Stay Alert for Warning Signs: Regularly inspect devices for any signs of damage, such as swelling or punctures. Be aware of unusual sounds like hissing or popping. Watch out for excessive heat or a strange odor. White or gray wispy smoke indicates there is immediate danger of fire. If you notice any of these warning signs, immediately unplug and stop using the lithium-ion battery-powered device. Keep your devices visible when traveling and charging, Do not put lithium-ion battery-powered devices or holiday gifts in checked bags.
4. Recycle Devices and Batteries Properly: Never toss batteries in public trash bins or leave them behind when traveling.
5. Get Out Quickly if There’s a Fire: Know the warning signs to look and listen for and get out if you see or hear them. If a device shows warning signs, evacuate immediately and alert authorities. When at home, follow your fire escape plan to leave immediately, closing doors behind you as you exit and call 9-1-1. Create an escape plan and practice it with everyone living in the home so you’re ready in the event of a fire emergency. In public spaces like transit hubs, locate exits and escape routes.
6. Educate Others on Safe Practices: If gifting battery-powered devices, inform recipients of how they can Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety using safe travel and charging practices. Help protect your travel companions by reminding them to keep devices in carry-on luggage, never in checked bags. It is crucial to see these guidelines not as individual tips, but interconnected steps.

Each measure supports and reinforces the others. Embracing and adhering to these guidelines can significantly reduce risk and create a safer environment at home, at work or on-the-go. For more information, visit batteryfiresafety.org.

2026-02-25T08:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• Brain health should be a priority for adults of every age.
• There are many ways to take care of your brain, from socializing to taking brain-boosting supplements like Cognizin citicoline.
• When you invest in your brain health, you can improve your focus and attention today as well as preserve your cognitive abilities and memory down the line.

It may only weigh 3 pounds, but your brain is one of the most important organs in your body. The brain is responsible for your thoughts, feelings, memory, experiences, communication, motor skills and so many other processes. That’s why it’s important to invest in your brain health now.

Brain health isn’t just important for older adults. Brain health and performance should be top of mind for everyone at any age. Investing in brain health when you’re young can help sharpen your focus and mental energy, so you can zone in and be more productive. And, as you age, maintaining brain health can help to preserve your memory and other cognitive functions.

Not sure how to start taking care of your brain? Read on to discover just a few tips that can keep your brain working well, whether you’re 18 or 80.

Eat smart to fuel your thoughts

Food nourishes your whole body, and that includes your brain. So, what foods can help your brain function at its best now and in the future? According to Harvard Health, your best strategy is to change your dietary habits to prioritize veggies, fruits, legumes, whole grains, fish and healthy fats. The next time you’re at the store, consider buying:

• Green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach and broccoli
• Strawberries and blueberries
• Black beans and chickpeas
• Cracked wheat, oats and whole-grain couscous
• Omega-3 rich fish like salmon, cod and canned light tuna
• Olive oil and other healthy fats

Incorporate brain support supplements into your routine

Supplements are a great way to optimize brain-fueling nutrients. For example, Cognizin Citicoline is a great supplement to add to your daily routine to support mental focus and memory.

What is citicoline? You may not know it by name, but it’s already inside of you! Citicoline is a naturally occurring brain nutrient that protects and repairs your brain cells.

Many cognitive health ingredients on the market can enhance your brain performance. However, Cognizin Citicoline provides brain performance and comprehensive brain health support over time. Clinical trials have shown that this brain health nutrient offers cognitive benefits for young professionals and improved memory function for older adults.

Cognizin is used in over 300 products, from capsules to beverages. You can visit Cognizin.com/en/Buy-Cognizin to learn more and find the products that work best for you.

Protect your brain when you exercise

Staying active is great for your body and brain, but don’t forget to wear a helmet. Whether you bike, ski, snowboard, roller skate, skateboard, horseback ride, or participate in high-impact sports like football and hockey, wearing a helmet can reduce your risk of a head injury.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a moderate to severe TBI can lead to cognitive issues with memory, attention, concentration, communication and problem-solving.

Invest in social connections and reap brain benefits

Social connections are incredibly vital to your well-being throughout every stage of life and can protect your brain health. Socializing can improve a person’s longevity, stress levels, mood and — most importantly — boost their thinking and memory.

How do social connections improve brain health? When you participate in social interactions, you’re activating neural pathways and preserving neural plasticity. In other words, it keeps your brain flexible, allowing it to adapt and function well now and in your golden years.

If you’re struggling to connect with others, try one (or a few) of these activities:

• Having a weekly phone or video call with an old friend
• Hosting a game night
• Meeting up with loved ones for lunch or dinner
• Planning a hike, bike ride or other activity
• Joining a book club

No matter your age, take care of your brain

It’s never too early or too late to invest in your brain health and function. The time and energy you spend trying these and other brain-boosting tips can help you in your personal and professional life now and keep your cognition and memory in tip-top shape in your retirement.

To learn more tips to keep your brain healthy at any age, visit Cognizin.com.

2026-02-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Eisai Inc. and Biogen

Patient information is accurate as of January 2026

In the heart of Mississippi, Diana “Di” Fillhart, a vibrant 68-year-old, lives a life defined by purpose and an unwavering commitment to others. As a retired pediatric and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse, religious missionary and restaurant owner, Di’s life has always been one of service.

Recently, her days have been filled with cherished companionship from her two granddaughters aged 6 and 11, friends and her church community. Di has always been one to stay in charge of her own life, a trait that would soon be tested in profound ways.

The shadow of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) loomed large in Di’s family history. Her father’s final years, marked by a slow erosion of identity, had etched a deep fear into Di’s heart. She vowed she would never become a shell of herself when her own journey with memory issues surfaced in 2022, as she found herself forgetting conversations with her grandchildren.

Driven by her fierce determination, Di sought out a neurologist. After a spinal tap and cognitive testing that same year, she received the diagnosis: mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the earliest recognizable stage of AD.

MCI may not be recognized or diagnosed right away because the symptoms can be very subtle and similar to typical signs of aging. Common symptoms of MCI, or early AD, include:

• Forgetting names or information you just learned,
• Confusion, such as asking the same question repeatedly,
• Struggling to find the right words and
• Difficulty concentrating and keeping track of household tasks.

These are not all the signs and symptoms of early AD, only a doctor can diagnose AD.

Because AD is a progressive disease, meaning it gets worse over time, it is crucial to recognize the signs, speak with a doctor and work with them to get an accurate and early diagnosis. Some treatment options for AD are only accessible during the disease’s early stages.

Di’s neurologist recommended that she begin treatment with LEQEMBI^® (lecanemab-irmb) as soon as possible. After the neurologist explained the potentially serious risks, Di carefully considered her options and decided to proceed with biweekly LEQEMBI intravenous (IV) treatment.

LEQEMBI is a prescription medicine used to treat people with early AD, which includes MCI or mild dementia stage of disease. After completing 18 months of intravenous (IV) infusions of LEQEMBI every two weeks, people have the option to either continue with this IV dosing regimen, transition to the once every four weeks IV maintenance dosing regimen, or transition to a weekly maintenance regimen administered at home with the subcutaneous autoinjector (SC-AI), which injects LEQEMBI under your skin.

Di’s spirit remains undimmed and she feels good about her treatment. “I was determined to fight this disease and do whatever I can,” she stated. “I feel like I am on the path to maintaining who I am for longer with LEQEMBI.” Other people on LEQEMBI may have a different experience.

In an 18-month study of people with early AD, LEQEMBI was shown to significantly slow the progression of the disease when compared to people not taking LEQEMBI. Ongoing treatment with LEQEMBI may help prolong the benefit of therapy, helping people like Di continue doing the things they love for longer. LEQEMBI is not a cure for AD and does not stop its progression.

LEQEMBI fights AD in two ways. It removes existing amyloid-beta plaque, the clumps of protein that accumulate in the brain and contribute to disease progression, and targets harmful amyloid proteins called protofibrils, which can continue to damage brain nerve cells even after the plaque is removed.

LEQEMBI can cause serious side effects, including amyloid related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). ARIA is a side effect that does not usually cause any symptoms, but serious symptoms can occur. ARIA can be fatal. ARIA commonly shows up as temporary swelling in areas of the brain that usually goes away over time. Some people may have small spots of bleeding in or on the surface of the brain; sometimes larger areas of bleeding have occurred. Tell your doctor right away if you notice: headache, confusion that gets worse, dizziness, vision changes, nausea, difficulty walking or speaking, seizures, or muscle weakness. Talk to your doctor about testing to see if you have a genetic risk factor (homozygous apolipoprotein E gene carriers) that may cause an increased risk for ARIA. It is important to also tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including medications to reduce blood clots from forming such as antithrombotic medicines like aspirin, which may increase the risk of developing bleeding in the brain. LEQEMBI may also cause serious allergic reactions as well as infusion- and injection-related reactions. Most common side effects include infusion-related reactions, ARIA and headaches. These are not all the possible side effects of LEQEMBI. Please see Important Safety Information below.

Di’s granddaughters remain her greatest motivation and give her purpose. Since receiving an AD diagnosis, she has been able to continue doing the things she loves, including spending time with her granddaughters, swimming and being active in her church community.

Her journey is not one of quiet suffering, but of open advocacy. “Fear can get in the way of living life for people with AD, and I am outspoken about my experience to help encourage others to keep moving forward and stop letting fear rule their lives,” she asserted.

Di is living, loving and leading the way forward for her family, for her community and for herself.

If you or someone you love may be living with AD, it’s important to speak with a doctor. To learn more about LEQEMBI, visit www.LEQEMBI.com.

Diana Fillhart was compensated for her participation in the story.

WHAT IS LEQEMBI?

LEQEMBI is a prescription medicine used to treat people with early Alzheimer’s disease, which includes mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia stage of disease.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about LEQEMBI?

LEQEMBI can cause serious side effects, including:

ARIA (Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities). ARIA is a side effect that does not usually cause any symptoms, but serious symptoms can occur. ARIA can be fatal.

• ARIA commonly shows up as temporary swelling in areas of the brain that usually goes away over time

• Small spots of bleeding in or on the surface of the brain can occur

• Less often, larger areas of bleeding in the brain can occur

• Most people with ARIA don’t have any symptoms. However, some people may notice:
  • headache
  • confusion that gets worse
  • dizziness
  • vision changes
  • nausea
  • difficulty walking
  • seizures
  • difficulty speaking
  • muscle weakness

• Some people have a gene called ApoE4 that may increase the risk of ARIA. Talk to your healthcare provider about testing to see if you have this gene
• You may be at a higher risk of developing bleeding in the brain if you take medicines to reduce blood clots from forming (antithrombotic medicines) while receiving LEQEMBI. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if any of the medicines you’re taking increase this risk
• Your healthcare provider will check for ARIA with MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans before you start LEQEMBI and during treatment
• You should carry information that says you are receiving LEQEMBI, which can cause ARIA, and that ARIA symptoms can look like stroke symptoms

Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you have any of the symptoms listed above.

Serious allergic reactions:

Do not receive LEQEMBI if you have serious allergic reactions to LEQEMBI, LEQEMBI IQLIK, or any of the ingredients.

• Tell your healthcare provider if you notice any symptoms during or after a LEQEMBI infusion, including:

• • swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or tongue
  • itchy bumps on the skin, also known as hives
  • difficulty breathing

Infusion-related reactions:

• Infusion-related reactions can occur during or after completion with LEQEMBI injection into a vein (intravenously), which can be serious. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you notice any of these symptoms:

• • fever
  • flu-like symptoms (chills, body aches, feeling shaky, joint pain)
  • nausea and/or vomiting
  • dizziness or lightheadedness
  • fast or slow heart rate, or feeling like your chest is pounding
  • difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • changes in blood pressure

• If you have an infusion-related reaction, your healthcare provider may give you medicines before your next infusion to lower the chance of having a reaction

Injection-related reactions:

• Injection-related reactions may occur with LEQEMBI injection under the skin (subcutaneous injection with LEQEMBI IQLIK). Tell your healthcare provider if you notice any of these symptoms during or after an injection:

• • redness, swelling, heat, pain, itching, rash, bruising, and blood collection under the skin at the injection site
  • headache, fatigue, or fever may also be observed after an injection

The most common side effects of LEQEMBI include infusion-related reactions, ARIA, and headaches.

These are not all the possible side effects of LEQEMBI. Call your doctor for more information and medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before receiving LEQEMBI, tell your healthcare provider about:

• All your medical conditions, including if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed. It is not known if LEQEMBI could harm your unborn or breastfeeding baby

• All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take medicines to reduce blood clots from forming (antithrombotic medicines, including aspirin)

LEQEMBI (lecanemab-irmb) is available as:

• Intravenous infusion: 100 mg/mL
• Subcutaneous injection: 200 mg/mL

Please see Medication Guide with Instructions for Use and full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING, for LEQEMBI.

LEQE-US5042 © Eisai Inc. February 2026

2026-02-13T13:01:00

(BPT) – In the U.S., about 7,000 people live with hereditary angioedema, or HAE,^1,2 a rare condition that results in unpredictable swelling attacks.^3-8 Symptoms often appear early in life and can worsen over time.⁸

The swelling attacks can cause arms and hands, legs and feet, belly, genitals, face, or throat (airways) to swell,^5,6,9 sometimes resulting in difficulty breathing and, in severe cases, suffocation (asphyxiation).^7-9 Attacks can be triggered by physical trauma, such as dental work, or emotional stress (for example finals week), and even occur without a known trigger.^5-9 Attacks can last for several days if not treated.¹⁰

Living with HAE can be challenging. The unpredictable nature of attacks can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, creating anxiety, fear, and even embarrassment.^3,5,7,8,11

“Living with HAE is like having your life put on hold constantly; feeling you have no control, not even on the simplest of things, not knowing when your plans are going to be interrupted,” said Soraya Alvarez Diaz, who had her first HAE attack as a child, “it is physically and emotionally exhausting and can make you feel isolated.”

“An attack can occur at any time or in any occasion. I even had a severe laryngeal attack on a plane while traveling to New York. It was one of the scariest moments of my life,” she said.

Currently, there is no cure, but there are treatments available that can prevent or manage the symptoms of an attack. Nonetheless, unmet treatment needs remain, including the need for additional oral medicines that are effective, well-tolerated, convenient, discreet, and portable.

One company working to address those needs is Pharvaris, which is developing a potential new treatment to further address the unmet medical needs for people living with HAE.

Investigating attack prevention: the CHAPTER-4 study^12,13

The CHAPTER-4 study is a long-term, open-label study investigating Pharvaris’ investigational drug, deucrictibant, an extended-release tablet for the preventative treatment of HAE attacks in adolescents and adults, ages 12 and above.

Deucrictibant has already been tested in other HAE clinical research studies, the results of which have supported further development/study, and it has shown favorable results for efficacy and safety.

Why take part in a clinical study?

Clinical studies have been, and continue to be, essential to eventually bringing new treatments to those who need them.

“For me, the main reason to participate in clinical trials, and the reason I believe others should consider doing the same, is the chance to contribute to the development of new medications to treat HAE,” said Alvarez Diaz, “I have a sense of satisfaction knowing that I have contributed to help others in need.”

New therapies may offer people with HAE the opportunity to further improve management of their condition and, given the hereditary nature of HAE, experience fewer unmet medical needs than previous generations.

Participating in a clinical study can be a valuable experience. Studies can represent a form of access to investigational drugs in development that may not be available outside of a study and allow participants to contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge.

“Medical breakthroughs and advances require the active participation and support of the scientific community, including patients, suffering from the conditions,” said Alvarez Diaz. “Others have led the way in benefit of humankind. I do not want to be just part of the problem; I want to be part of the solution. Participating in clinical trials can help build a better future for new generations of patients, as others did for me.”

Curious to find out more?

If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about the CHAPTER-4 study, please visit: https://hae-chapter.com/#about-ch4-study

Currently, deucrictibant is only available in an investigational setting as a drug currently being studied for the prevention, or treatment, of HAE attacks. Deucrictibant is an investigational product and has not been approved by the FDA for the prevention or treatment of HAE.

References

1. Castaldo AJ, et al. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2025;135(3):303-310.
2. Lumry WR. Front. Med. 2018; 5:22.
3. Lumry WR, et al. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2020;41(Suppl 1):S08-S13.
4. Christiansen SC, et al. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2023;131(6):766-774.e8.
5. Maurer M, et al. Allergy. 2022;77(7):1961-1990.
6. Betschel SD, et al. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2023;11(8):2315-2325.
7. Busse PJ et al. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2021;10(3):716-717.
8. FDA CBER, The voice of the patient – Hereditary angioedema. May 2018. https://www.fda.gov/files/about%20fda/published/The-Voice-of-the-Patient—Hereditary-Angioedema.pdf. Accessed February 9, 2026.
9. US Hereditary Angioedema Association. What is Hereditary Angioedema (HAE)? https://www.haea.org/pages/p/what_is_hae. Accessed February 9, 2026.
10. Bork K, et al. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. 2021;17(1):40.
11. Anderson J, et al. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. 2021;17(1):60.
12. CHAPTER-3. Join us. https://hae-chapter.com/. Accessed February 9, 2026.
13. Long-Term, Open-label Study of Oral Deucrictibant Extended-Release Tablet for Prophylaxis Against Angioedema Attacks in Adolescents and Adults With HAE (CHAPTER-4). 2025. ClinicalTrials.Gov NCT06679881. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06679881. Accessed February 9, 2026.

2026-02-12T06:05:00

(BPT) – Whether you have a dog or cat (or both!), you probably want them to stay healthy and happy for as long as possible. What you may not know is that oral health is key to their overall wellness.

In honor of Pet Dental Health Month, this is the perfect time to learn why your pets’ teeth and gums are so vital for keeping them healthy and happy, as well as increasing their longevity. The good news is, there are many simple things you can do to care for your beloved pets’ oral health throughout their lifetime.

The mouth-body connection

Why is oral health so crucial to your pet’s overall well-being? The truth is, 70% of cats and a whopping 80% of dogs will suffer from some form of dental health issues by the time they are 3 years old, with their risk of dental problems increasing as they age.

These potentially painful dental health problems don’t just stay in their mouth. When plaque and tartar build up on a dog or cat’s teeth, they can cause gingivitis: inflammation, redness, swelling and even bleeding of the gums. Over time, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, where harmful bacteria invades the gums and can even enter their bloodstream, potentially damaging vital organs over time.

Oral bacteria have been linked to serious conditions including heart disease, liver problems and kidney failure in dogs, as well as sepsis, kidney, liver and heart disease in cats. One study found that dogs with severe gum disease were much more likely to develop heart issues like endocarditis or congestive heart failure.

It’s not just bad breath

One early indication your pet may be experiencing oral health issues is bad breath, but there are many other signs. Dogs and cats can effectively mask their pain, and unfortunately can’t tell you when something hurts them. Watch for signs like:

• Redness, swelling or bleeding of the gums
• Drooling
• Weight loss
• Taking longer to eat or having difficulty eating
• Tilting head when eating

Other changes in behavior, like being less playful or active, are worth checking out with your pet’s veterinarian.

What you can do

You can take proactive steps to prevent oral health problems. Any one of these steps can help, but consistently following many of them will go even further toward ensuring your four-legged family member stays healthy for years to come. No matter your pet’s age, it’s never too early or too late to begin building healthy habits.

Regular tooth brushing: Use toothpaste designed for dogs or cats (not humans), with a soft brush or finger brush. Try to brush at least a few times per week, if not daily. Introduce brushing along with positive rewards like treats. Even 30 seconds of brushing can help disrupt plaque before it hardens.

Dental chews or treats: Chewing can be nature’s toothbrush. Dental chew toys or treats can mechanically scrape plaque from your dog’s or cat’s teeth. However, some are high in calories or not very effective. Look for VOHC-accepted dental chews or veterinarian-recommended products with scientific backing, like these choices from Swedencare’s ProDen PlaqueOff^® line:

• New Crunchy Dental Bites for Dogs and Crunchy Dental Bites for Cats are natural, effective supplements that support your pet’s oral health, featuring the 100% natural kelp ingredient A.N ProDen^®. Clinical trials show significant reduction in plaque and tartar while improving bad breath, with noticeable improvement in 3-8 weeks when used as directed.
• Soft Chews — Dogs or Soft Chews — Cats are another option you can try, containing similar ingredients and providing similar results as Crunchy Dental Bites. They are perfect for older pets who may have difficulty eating harder chews, and can double as a reward or treat your furry friends will love.
• Dental Care Bones for Dogs are designed to satisfy your dog’s natural chewing instincts while supporting dental health. Perfect for pet parents looking for an enjoyable chewing experience, they contain the same unique, clinically studied kelp ingredient A.N ProDen^® found throughout the ProDen PlaqueOff^® range.

Oral health supplements: Adding an oral health powder to your pet’s diet is one of the easiest, most seamless ways to keep their teeth cleaner. These work with the animal, helping to prevent plaque from sticking and hardening through natural chemical processes in your pet’s body. ProDen PlaqueOff’s^® Powder for Dogs and Powder for Cats are odorless and tasteless, using the same natural, effective ingredients as other products in the ProDen PlaqueOff^® line.

The powder is also an economical choice: A 40 g bottle of Powder for cats lasts up to four months, and a 60 g bottle for dogs lasts roughly six months for a 22-pound dog. All ProDen PlaqueOff^® formats can be used daily and for long-term use, complementing each other and offering flexible options that are easy to use.

“Dental issues are some of the most common problems we see in the clinic — and they’re often painful, advanced and expensive before owners even notice,” said veterinarian Marie Jury. “That’s why preventive care is absolutely essential. A daily product like ProDen PlaqueOff^®, which is accepted by the VOHC, can make a meaningful difference long before problems start.”

Annual checkups: Your veterinarian is your best ally in protecting your pet’s oral health. They can also perform services like professional dental cleanings, which may be necessary to address oral health issues.

Following these steps, you can help ensure your dog or cat maintains good oral health and overall well-being — so you can enjoy many more years of tail wagging, cuddles and play time together.

2026-02-11T08:09:00

(BPT) – During the colder months, people often feel stiff, sluggish or vaguely “off” compared to other seasons, making it difficult to move comfortably and maintain a steady routine. This winter slump can become even more challenging as you age. However, winter stiffness and fatigue aren’t just about “slowing down.”

They’re often signs of increased inflammation.

Inflammation affects how you move, recover and stay consistent. It’s also often an underlying cause of seasonal discomfort and reduced mobility. And when inflammation goes unaddressed, it can stifle your ability to stay active, productive and independent as you age.

“The good news is that inflammation is often manageable,” said Dr. Dustin DebRoy, DC, manager of education and relations at The Joint Chiropractic. “By focusing on small, supportive lifestyle adjustments, people can reduce inflammation and reset their body this winter and — more importantly — their long-term health.”

Small changes with big impact

Major short-term fixes can’t sustain long-term performance, mobility and healthy aging. Instead of committing to a complete life overhaul, focus on building foundational habits that help you manage inflammation so you can improve how your body feels and moves.

Here are just a few small lifestyle adjustments that can have a big impact on inflammation, allowing your body to rest and reset.

Eat an anti-inflammatory diet: What you feed your body can also feed your inflammation. According to Harvard Health, refined carbohydrates, fried foods, sweet beverages, red meat, processed meat and unhealthy fats can increase inflammation. Try to limit eating these types of food and instead incorporate anti-inflammatory options like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats like olive oil.

Manage stress: Stress can take a toll on your entire body and directly contributes to inflammation. According to The Joint Chiropractic, stress elevates your cortisol levels, setting off your body’s natural inflammatory response. Make time in your day to unwind by meditating, journaling, walking or doing other relaxing activities. Not only do these activities help you destress and manage your inflammation, but they also can create long-term habits that may help promote calmness, mobility and overall well-being.

Schedule chiropractic care: Your body’s musculoskeletal alignment affects how you move and feel. When you’re out of alignment, you may feel discomfort and stiffness, making it harder to move. By visiting a chiropractic professional and receiving regular adjustments, you may feel reduced pain and stiffness in your joints, improved mobility, reduced stress and increased blood flow, all of which can contribute to a more active lifestyle and reduced inflammation. To learn more about how chiropractic care may help and to find a chiropractic professional near you, visit TheJoint.com.

Take a few minutes to stretch: Speaking of bodily alignment, stretching is another way to support your body so you can move more with less pain. You don’t need to spend a long time doing so. In as little as six minutes, you can improve your flexibility, relieve joint stiffness and reduce stress.

Realign, reset and recover in 2026 and beyond

Small, sustainable changes are the key to managing inflammation and unlocking a better-feeling you. This winter, start small and build on these and other healthy habits that will help your body realign, reset and recover not just this season, but for the rest of your life.

2026-01-28T13:01:00

(BPT) – For millions of people living with major depressive disorder, finding an effective treatment can feel like a never-ending process of trial and error — with no guarantee of relief. Although depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, the most common first-line approach, talk therapy combined with medication, frequently falls short.

The problem with this approach is that the first medication prescribed works only about 30% of the time, with the likelihood of success dropping with each subsequent attempt — to under 7% by the fourth medication. Meanwhile, patients continue to suffer debilitating symptoms, endure negative side effects from the medications and, in some cases, remain at a heightened risk of suicide.

In the early 1990s, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) psychiatrist and neurologist Mark George, M.D., pioneered a more effective, noninvasive approach: transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS. Considered the birthplace of clinical TMS for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, he was instrumental in TMS receiving Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in 2008. George’s TMS work continues today, now spanning research in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), pain management and smoking cessation.

“The brain is an electrochemical organ,” explained Baron Short, M.D., medical director of MUSC Health’s Brain Stimulation Service. “In people with major depressive disorder, there are usually parts of the brain that are underactive. With TMS, we produce an electromagnetic pulse that we apply to the top left part of the head. That pulse reactivates the part of the brain that’s underactive, leading to a resolution of depressive symptoms.”

Typically, TMS treatments are administered in 20-minute sessions over the course of several weeks, for a total of 30 to 36 treatments. Real-world data suggests that TMS leads to complete remission of depression in 62% of patients, with an 83% response rate — defined as at least a 50% reduction in symptoms.

“People tend to start feeling better at about week four, although many people feel better much sooner,” said Short.

An even better approach

In 2024, MUSC Health became the first hospital system to offer a revolutionary new depression treatment to patients, taking a successful innovation a leap further. Stanford Neuromodulation Therapy, or SAINT, is a next-generation approach that is fundamentally changing how severe depression and suicidal tendencies can be treated. This dramatically accelerated form of TMS brings patients out of depression in a matter of days — not months — offering rapid relief for people whose severe depression has gone untouched by drugs or psychotherapy.

Building on decades of TMS research at MUSC and countless late-night conversations about how to move the frustratingly slow needle on the treatment of depression, two neuropsychiatrists who trained under Short and George at MUSC, Nolan Williams, M.D., and Brandon Bentzley, M.D., Ph.D., developed SAINT while at Stanford, and it is fundamentally changing how severe depression can be treated.

Rather than delivering treatment over several weeks, the SAINT protocol condenses therapy into five days, with patients undergoing 10 sessions per day. By taking “a video of the brain” using a functional MRI (fMRI) scan and analyzing the data through eight hours of machine learning, physicians can pinpoint the area of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex that requires stimulation for each patient, personalizing the treatment with precision targeting by sending an electrochemical signal to the exact location.

The results have been striking: remission rates of 80% by day five, with an average time to remission of only 2.6 days and an overall 80% to 90% remission rate for treatment-resistant depression. With treatments of 10 minutes each hour, patients feel a tapping sensation on their heads. They then rest for the remaining 50 minutes before the next round. Generally mild and short-lived, side effects include minor discomfort at the treatment site and muscle twitching.

“Think of it like an exercise,” said Short. “If you were going to build your biceps, you wouldn’t do 50 curls at once. You would do a set of 10 and then rest. SAINT is like that, but it’s very targeted.”

Untold potential

Short is encouraged by the results seen with SAINT as well as its future potential. Expanding access to this accelerated approach to depression treatment has become a key focus of his work.

“We see people recover extremely quickly, thanks to SAINT, which has a dramatically higher remission rate for depression than previous treatment options. People wake up out of that mask of depression so they can reengage the world with new vigor and life,” he said.

“I have been involved in well over 18,000 TMS and SAINT treatment sessions. It’s really rewarding to be a part of that. Why would we make people try inferior treatments and spend months of their lives in agony when you can get them out of depression in a matter of days?”

One challenge he is working to address is limited insurance coverage, which is currently available primarily through Medicare and select insurers.

Why the urgency?

Baron explained that major depressive disorder remains one of the few serious medical conditions that is still not treated with the urgency of illnesses such as cancer or heart disease. He stressed that it’s not simply “feeling down.” Rather, the condition is characterized by persistent and debilitating symptoms that include insomnia, difficulty concentrating, appetite changes, a decrease in energy and loss of interest in life that last not days or weeks – but months or even years. It can escalate, he warned, to thoughts of suicide.

A relaxed approach to its treatment, he said, is not acceptable.

“We know 25% of people with major depression will try to commit suicide, and somebody commits suicide every 40 seconds,” he said. “We now have more tools than talk therapy, medications that may not work and electroconvulsive therapy, which can be an intimidating procedure for patients. It’s critical that we start treating depression as the emergency it is so we can actually do something about it. SAINT enables us to do that. It’s like we’ve been given the keys to the kingdom.”

Short explained that SAINT also has the potential to treat other mood disorders, as many of them also find their roots in underactive or overactive areas of the brain.

“SAINT TMS offers intelligent, individualized treatment with unparalleled, fast recovery for patients,” he said. “I believe this will change the trajectory of how we treat the depression epidemic.”

Learn more about MUSC’s trailblazing work on TMS at MUSCHealth.org/medical-services/behavioral-health/brain-stimulation. People interested in a consultation for outpatient treatment using TMS and SAINT can call 843-792-5716.

2026-01-27T07:01:00

(BPT) – Spring break is a time when many teens look forward to fun and relaxation. It can also be a time for experimenting with substances and other risky behaviors. As a parent or caregiver, make time to have meaningful conversations with your teen about substance use and their mental health before they head out for spring break.

From social media to the pressures of school and social life, there’s a lot on your teen’s plate. In a recent survey, 40% of teens reported feeling sad or hopeless in 2023.¹ And teens who’ve had a major depressive episode were more likely to use illegal drugs, alcohol, tobacco and vapes.² As a parent or caregiver, talking openly and frequently with your teen in a non-judgmental tone about mental health and substance use can ultimately help prevent overdose deaths by encouraging more young people to seek the help they may need.³

Whether it’s at the dinner table, in the living room, in the car, on the phone or video chat, or whatever setting fits your family, taking the time to talk intentionally with your teen in the weeks leading up to their spring break can make an impact on their life.

Follow these three tips to spark open and honest conversations.

Tip 1: Know what to bring to the table

As a parent or caregiver, it’s important to understand how teens can be affected by substance use and mental health issues — and how these two issues may be connected. Although the issues you faced as a teen may be different from today (think social media and AI), your teen’s struggles with substances and societal pressures may be the same. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Free Mind campaign includes resources to help teens and parents understand the current drug landscape and provides information for parents and caregivers that will prepare you for questions that may arise.

Tip 2: Create a safe space

Be sure to create a safe space for both adults and teens. Make sure all adults are on the same page and prepared to be honest and lead with compassion and create a judgment-free zone. You can use tools such as CDC’s Free Mind conversation starters, which are geared to help teens talk with each other, or the digital card game “Facts and Feels” that has questions and answers to help break the ice.

Tip 3: Reflect and act

Now that you’ve started the conversation, encourage additional discussions and allow your teen time to reflect on some of the hard questions. Be sure to remind them that the door is always open to continue having a meaningful conversation.

If you need more help getting started, Free Mind has resources made for teens, parents and caregivers at www.cdc.gov/freemind. Created through research and real conversations with teens and families, these resources can help adults and teens:

• understand the link between mental health and substance use,
• know they have the power to act, and
• empower them to deal with challenges in a healthy way.

Remember, conversations like these can take place year-round, not just around spring break. Make a difference in your teen’s life by taking the first step.

Sources:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Youth Risk Behavior Survey data summary & trends report: 2013–2023. Published August 6, 2024. Accessed February 25, 2025 www.cdc.gov/yrbs/dstr/index.html
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Published July 2024. Accessed January 14, 2025.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Stigma reduction. Accessed March 24, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/stop-overdose/stigma-reduction/index.html.