Category: Brandpoint Health

2023-03-15T06:01:00

(BPT) – This content is sponsored and provided by Novartis.

“I have cancer. Cancer doesn’t have me.”

Lisa, a Maryland mother, grandmother, travel agent and minister, is adamant about not letting breast cancer prevent her from living her life to the fullest. After an initial diagnosis of stage II hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 negative (HR+/HER2-) breast cancer, Lisa underwent chemotherapy, had a lymph node removal, and a mastectomy on one side. Then, her cancer went into remission.

Several years later, Lisa developed a chronic cough and had difficulty breathing but thought it may be allergies. However, during her annual follow-up with her oncologist, she shared this new symptom, and her provider urged her to get testing done to rule out if her cancer had returned. After her bloodwork came back with extremely high tumor markers, a PET scan also revealed that her cancer had come back and had spread to her lungs and bones. A CT scan and MRI later found the cancer had also spread to her brain. Cancer returning was something Lisa never expected. And this time it was in the form of HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer.

More than 150,000 women are living with metastatic breast cancer in the United States, three-fourths of whom were originally diagnosed with stage I-III cancer¹. HR+/HER2- breast cancer is the most common subtype, with 68% of all female breast cancer cases being HR+/HER2-².

While the majority of patients are diagnosed with early breast cancer, many see their cancer come back after initial treatment, with 87-94% of these recurrences leading to metastatic disease^3,4. Being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer means cancer has spread from the breast to other parts of the body, such as the brain, bones, or liver. While there is no cure for metastatic breast cancer, there are treatments available that can help those living with the disease live longer and well.

It hasn’t been an easy road for Lisa, but with the support of her family, her friends, and her faith, she continues to face each day by advocating for herself, communicating with her healthcare provider and being an active participant in her own treatment journey.

Here are some tips she wants to give others who might be facing a similar journey.

Be your best advocate

Throughout the diagnosis and treatment process, Lisa continued having conversations with her doctor, along with doing her own research, making sure to share her concerns, field any questions and let her doctor know of any side effects from treatment. She took notes during every appointment, looking up things that she didn’t understand when she got home.

When Lisa’s doctor suggested chemotherapy as the first line of treatment for her metastatic breast cancer, she was resistant, as she had experienced complicated side effects from it in the past. When she decided to give it a try and again had difficulty with the side effects, she spoke up for herself.

“It’s important to trust your doctor, but you should always practice your due diligence to make sure you’re getting the care you need,” says Lisa.

Lisa became her biggest advocate having honest and open conversations with her doctor, determined to find the best course for her treatment journey.

Do what works for you

After Lisa spoke up to her doctor about the chemotherapy side effects, her doctor recommended trying KISQALI^® (ribociclib) 200 mg tablets, a prescription medicine approved to treat adults with HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer in combination with either an aromatase inhibitor or fulvestrant as the first endocrine-based therapy, or following disease progression on endocrine therapy in postmenopausal women or in men.

For Lisa, who recently traveled to England as part of her ministry work, it was extremely important to find a treatment that would allow her the flexibility to continue her regular practices, including her ability to travel.

“This medication has been working very well for me. It’s as close as I can get to feeling like I have a chronic condition and not a terminal illness,” explains Lisa. “I don’t have to sit in a doctor’s office for a day, I can manage my symptoms and I’m able to show up every day — both for myself and for others.”

Lisa has been able to continue socializing with her support network, including close friends and family, and visiting with 3 new grandbabies.

While KISQALI worked for Lisa, all medications affect people differently and it’s important to find the treatment option that works best for you.

Continue to live your life

Lisa decided cancer would not have dominion over her when she was first diagnosed with early breast cancer. When she learned she had metastatic breast cancer, and that the 10-year survival rate was 13%, she reframed her remission narrative and found empowerment in the fact that life is never guaranteed, with or without a cancer diagnosis⁵. Her focus became to overcome any challenges and obstacles she would face and make the most of the time she has.

“My mentality became ‘long live life,’” says Lisa. “Life is worth living no matter what. You have to choose to live life. You have to choose to make each day count.”

You can read inspiring stories about others like Lisa who are living with HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer at KISQALI.com.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information.

References

1. American Cancer Society. Breast Cancer Facts & Figures 2022-2024. Atlanta: American Cancer Society, Inc. 2022
2. Ibid.
3. Ibid.
4. Wangchinda P, Ithimakin S. Factors that predict recurrence later than 5 years after initial treatment in operable breast cancer. World J Surg Oncol. 2016 Aug 24;14(1):223. doi: 10.1186/s12957-016-0988-0
5. Eng LG, Dawood S, Sopik V, et al. Ten-year survival in women with primary stage IV breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2016 Nov;160(1):145-152. doi: 10.1007/s10549-016-3974-x

Indications

KISQALI is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer that has gotten worse or has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic), in combination with:

• an aromatase inhibitor as the first endocrine-based therapy; or
• fulvestrant as the first endocrine-based therapy or following disease progression on endocrine therapy in postmenopausal women or in men.

It is not known if KISQALI is safe and effective in children.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

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

KISQALI may cause serious side effects, including:

Lung problems. KISQALI may cause severe or life-threatening inflammation of the lungs during treatment that may lead to death. Tell your health care provider right away if you have any new or worsening symptoms, including:

• trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• cough with or without mucus
• chest pain

Severe skin reactions. Tell your health care provider or get medical help right away if you get severe rash or rash that keeps getting worse; reddened skin; flu-like symptoms; skin pain/burning; blistering of the lips, eyes, or mouth; or blisters on the skin or skin peeling, with or without fever.

Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation). KISQALI can cause a heart problem known as QT prolongation. This condition can cause an abnormal heartbeat and may lead to death. Your health care provider should check your heart and do blood tests before and during treatment with KISQALI. Tell your health care provider right away if you have a change in your heartbeat (a fast or irregular heartbeat), or if you feel dizzy or faint.

Liver problems (hepatobiliary toxicity). KISQALI can cause serious liver problems. Your health care provider should do blood tests to check your liver before and during treatment with KISQALI. Tell your health care provider right away if you get any of the following signs and symptoms of liver problems:

• yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes (jaundice)
• dark or brown (tea-colored) urine
• feeling very tired
• loss of appetite
• pain on the right side of your stomach area (abdomen)
• bleeding or bruising more easily than normal

Low white blood cell counts (neutropenia). Low white blood cell counts are very common during treatment with KISQALI and may result in infections that may be severe. Your health care provider should check your white blood cell counts before and during treatment with KISQALI. Tell your health care provider right away if you have signs and symptoms of low white blood cell counts or infections such as fever and chills.

Your health care provider may tell you to decrease your dose, temporarily stop, or completely stop taking KISQALI if you develop certain serious side effects during treatment with KISQALI.

What should I tell my health care provider before taking KISQALI?

Before you take KISQALI, tell your health care provider if you:

• have any heart problems, including heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and QT prolongation
• have ever had a heart attack
• have a slow heartbeat (bradycardia)
• have problems with the amount of potassium, calcium, phosphorus, or magnesium in your blood
• have fever, chills, or any other signs or symptoms of infection
• have liver problems
• have any other medical conditions
• are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant. KISQALI can harm your unborn baby

• If you are able to become pregnant, your health care provider should do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with KISQALI.
• Females who are able to become pregnant and who take KISQALI should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose of KISQALI.
• Talk to your health care provider about birth control methods that may be right for you during this time.
• If you become pregnant or think you are pregnant, tell your health care provider right away.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if KISQALI passes into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with KISQALI and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose of KISQALI

Tell your health care provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. KISQALI and other medicines may affect each other, causing side effects. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your health care provider or pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

What should I avoid while taking KISQALI?

Avoid eating grapefruit and avoid drinking grapefruit juice during treatment with KISQALI since these may increase the amount of KISQALI in your blood.

The most common side effects of KISQALI include:

• decreased white blood cell counts
• decreased red blood cell counts
• abnormal liver function tests
• infections
• nausea
• increased kidney function test
• tiredness
• decreased platelet counts
• diarrhea
• vomiting
• headache
• constipation
• hair loss
• cough
• rash
• back pain
• low blood sugar level

KISQALI may cause fertility problems if you are male and take KISQALI. This may affect your ability to father a child. Talk to your health care provider if this is a concern for you.

Tell your health care provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

These are not all the possible side effects of KISQALI. For more information, ask your health care provider or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. 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.

2/23 266490

2023-03-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – One of the worst things a woman can hear is: “You have cancer.”

The unfortunate reality is that one in every eight women in the U.S. is diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their life. In fact, breast cancer is the most common kind of cancer nationally, and there are different subtypes. The most common subtype is HR+/HER2- breast cancer.

What Does HR+/HER2- Mean for the Women Who Have It?

Most breast cancers are distinguished by the presence or absence of certain receptors that play a role in driving their growth. These most commonly include hormone receptors (HR) – estrogen or progesterone – and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), which are involved in certain processes that allow the cancer cells to grow. Breast cancers that test positive for HR (“HR+”) and negative for HER2 (“HER2-”) have hormone receptors but have little to no HER2 receptors.

Thousands of women each year will be diagnosed with HR+/HER2- in early stages and may survive – and will likely live for years beyond their diagnosis.

But it’s women who have metastatic breast cancer, or cancer that has spread beyond breast tissue, who need more help. For these women, their life expectancy is much shorter, and treatment may continue for the rest of their life.

“Researchers estimate that there are more than 150,000 women in the U.S. living with metastatic breast cancer,” said Laura Carfang, Executive Director at SurvivingBreastCancer.org. “Unlike women who have earlier stage breast cancer who aim to say, ‘I am a survivor,’ ‘I am cancer-free’ or ‘I have no evidence of disease,’ women with metastatic breast cancer may say, ‘I am living with cancer,’ or ‘I have no evidence of active disease.’”

For these women, tomorrow becomes uncertain without treatment options.

Metastatic Breast Cancer Requires More

Stage IV breast cancer, or metastatic disease, is when cancer cells break away from the original tumor in the breast and travel to other parts of the body. Nearly 1 in 3 people diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer will develop metastatic disease.

Once cancer is metastatic, surgery to remove the tumor or the breasts themselves is unlikely to get rid of all the cancer. People with HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer typically receive treatments called endocrine-based therapies that target and try to block the activity of the hormone receptors driving the cancer growth. Despite how successful these treatments may be, resistance often develops, which means they could stop working.

“Women living with metastatic HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer have a unique and challenging experience,” said Carfang. “Endocrine-based therapies may work for them initially, but then, after possibly many successful years of being stable, it comes back or starts growing again, and suddenly they are left asking, ‘What now? What will my next line of treatment be and what options do I have?’ We have had so little to offer for these women who have endured so much.”

Historically, once women stop responding to endocrine-based therapy, treatment has been limited to single-agent chemotherapy. Many of these women will cycle through multiple chemotherapies and may decide to discontinue treatment.

“It can feel like time is running out,” said Carfang.

Treatment Options for HR+/HER2- Metastatic Breast Cancer Are Expanding

A recent FDA approval provides a new option for certain adults with pre-treated HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer. Trodelvy^® (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) is a different kind of treatment called an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) that is approved for adults with HR+/HER2- breast cancer that has spread to other areas of the body (metastatic) or cannot be removed by surgery, and who have received endocrine therapy and at least two additional treatments for metastatic disease. It is not known if Trodelvy is safe and effective in people with moderate or severe liver problems or in children.

Trodelvy is a new option in HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer for women who want to continue treatment.

Please click to see Important Facts about Trodelvy, including Important Warnings for low white blood cell count and diarrhea.

If you or someone you know has HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer that is resistant to endocrine-based therapies and has received at least 2 additional treatments for metastatic disease, speak with your doctor about potential treatment options, including Trodelvy. For more information, please visit www.trodelvy.com/.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

TRODELVY can cause serious side effects, including low white blood cell count and diarrhea:

• Low white blood cell count (neutropenia) which is common and can sometimes be severe and lead to infections that can be life-threatening or cause death. Your healthcare provider should check your blood cell counts during treatment. If your white blood cell count is too low, your healthcare provider may need to lower your dose, give you a medicine to help prevent low blood cell count with future doses of TRODELVY, or in some cases may stop TRODELVY. Your healthcare provider may need to give you antibiotic medicines if you develop fever while your white blood cell count is low. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop any of the following signs of infection: fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, or burning or pain when you urinate.
• Severe diarrhea. Diarrhea is common and can be severe. Severe diarrhea can lead to loss of too much body fluid (dehydration) and kidney problems. Your healthcare provider should monitor you for diarrhea and give you medicine as needed to help control it. If you lose too much body fluid, your healthcare provider may need to give you fluids and electrolytes to replace body salts. If you develop diarrhea during your treatment with TRODELVY, your healthcare provider should check to see if it may be caused by an infection. Your healthcare provider may decrease your dose or stop TRODELVY if your diarrhea is severe and cannot be controlled with anti-diarrheal medicines.
• Call your healthcare provider right away the first time that you get diarrhea during treatment with TRODELVY; if you have black or bloody stools; if you have symptoms of dehydration, such as lightheadedness, dizziness, or faintness; if you are unable to take fluids by mouth due to nausea or vomiting; or if you are not able to get your diarrhea under control within 24 hours.

Do not receive TRODELVY if you have had a severe allergic reaction to TRODELVY. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure.

Allergic and infusion-related reactions which can be serious and life-threatening. Tell your healthcare provider or nurse right away if you get any of the following symptoms during your infusion of TRODELVY or within 24 hours after: swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; hives; skin rash, itching, or flushing of your skin; fever; difficulty breathing or wheezing; lightheadedness, dizziness, feeling faint, or pass out; or chills or shaking chills (rigors).

Nausea and vomiting are common with TRODELVY and can sometimes be severe. Before each dose of TRODELVY, you will receive medicines to help prevent nausea and vomiting along with medicines to take home with instructions about how to take them. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have nausea or vomiting that is not controlled with the medicines prescribed for you. Your healthcare provider may decide to decrease your dose or stop TRODELVY if your nausea and vomiting is severe and cannot be controlled with anti-nausea medicines.

Before receiving TRODELVY, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have been told that you carry a gene for UGT1A1*28, which can increase your risk of getting side effects with TRODELVY, especially low white blood cell counts, with or without a fever, and low red blood cell counts.
• have liver problems.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. TRODELVY can harm your unborn baby. Your healthcare provider should check to see if you are pregnant before you start receiving TRODELVY. TRODELVY may cause fertility problems in females, which could affect your ability to have a baby. Talk to your healthcare provider if fertility is a concern for you.
• Females who can become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment and for 6 months after your last dose of TRODELVY. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control choices that may be right for you during this time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant during treatment with TRODELVY.
• Males with a female partner who can become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment and for 3 months after your last dose of TRODELVY.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TRODELVY passes into your breastmilk and can harm your baby. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 1 month after your last dose of TRODELVY.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Certain medicines may affect the way TRODELVY works.

The most common side effects of TRODELVY include decreased white blood cell (leukocyte and lymphocyte) and red blood cell counts, feeling tired or weak, hair loss, constipation, increased sugar levels in the blood, decreased protein levels (albumin) in the blood, decreased appetite, changes in kidney function test, increased levels of enzyme called alkaline phosphatase in the blood (test for liver or bone problems), and decreased levels of magnesium, potassium, and sodium in the blood.

These are not all of the possible side effects of TRODELVY. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

WHAT IS TRODELVY?

TRODELVY^® (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with hormone receptor (HR)-positive and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic) or cannot be removed by surgery, and who previously received endocrine therapy and at least two additional treatments for metastatic disease.

It is not known if TRODELVY is safe and effective in people with moderate or severe liver problems or in children.

Please click to see Important Facts about Trodelvy, including Important Warning.

A message from Gilead Sciences, Inc.

TRODELVY and GILEAD are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

© 2023 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. US-TROC-0142 02/23

2023-03-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – Mushrooms are trending. From pop culture to food and drink to home décor and tattoos, you can find mushrooms everywhere you look. According to Artful Living, the mushroom renaissance began during the pandemic as people began foraging and growing mushrooms at home.

These fabulous fungi aren’t just good for humans. They’re also good for the planet. By any measure of water and energy and the low CO2 emissions, mushrooms have a minimal environmental footprint.

In many ways, the mushroom craze is a way for humans to reconnect to ancient traditions. Mushrooms have long been used in traditional Eastern medicine and are dietary staples in many Asian countries because of their various health benefits.

One industry that has boosted the mushroom boom is the beauty sector. Mushroom extracts are known for their natural antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and natural source of hydration. Because of their excellent properties, beauty companies like Shroom Skincare are using mushrooms as the main ingredients in skincare products. Check out four mushroom extracts and their benefits that result in healthier, more beautiful skin.

1. Hydrates dry skin

If you want hydrated, visibly healthy skin, look for products that contain reishi mushroom extract. Reishi contains beta-glucans, molecules found in yeast and fungi that, according to a scientific review, heal and moisturize skin. A study published in The Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that it can calm dry, itchy skin, including that caused by eczema.

2. Protects and rejuvenates

Commonly used in traditional medicine as a folk remedy in Russia and other European countries, Chaga mushroom has several benefits when used on the skin. Chaga has been found to have anti-bacterial, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, according to a study from the Department of Medical Nutrition at Kyunghee University. It also helps with cell repair and can protect cells from free radicals, which damage cells and cause premature aging.

3. Prevents collagen breakdown

Collagen is an important protein that provides structure and support to your skin. As you age, you naturally produce less collagen, which decreases your skin’s elasticity, causing wrinkles. Cordyceps sinensis, a rare fungus ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine, helps prevent collagen breakdown, preserving skin elasticity and supporting a balanced, even skin tone.

4. Calming and soothing

When you need to calm and soothe your skin, reach for maitake mushroom extract. Known as the dancing mushroom in Japan, it has incredible healing properties and can protect the skin, improve elasticity and reduce redness and inflammation. An open clinical study found that it improved premature aging from sun exposure and skin turgor, the skin’s ability to change shape and return to normal.

To get the most out of mushroom skincare, make sure you’re using a product with all four amazing mushrooms, like Mycelium Glow Brightening Serum. Made by Shroom Skincare, it combines these mushroom extracts with vitamin C, jojoba seed oil, Kalahari melon oil, rosehip oil, olive oil and vitamin E.

“Combining these ingredients in a skincare product provides a range of benefits for the skin,” said Dr. Jennifer Chwalek, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at UnionDerm. “This includes protection from environmental damage, reduction of inflammation, support for the skin’s natural defenses and improvement in the appearance of aging and uneven skin tone.”

To learn more about the benefits of mushroom skincare products, visit ShroomSkincare.Skin.

2023-03-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – The transition to spring means the beginning of daylight saving time, warmer and longer days, and the emergence of spring allergies while we begin the annual ritual of spring cleaning. This variable weather and increasing daylight can be disruptive to your daily routine and nighttime slumber. In fact, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has found that seasonal time changes can cause problems with mood, heart health and circadian rhythms. This spring, try these tips to refresh your sleep routine.

1. Get consistent with when you go to sleep and wake up.

Sleep experts agree that children and adults benefit from consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, including over the weekends. If your routine is irregular, start by establishing target bedtime and wake-up windows and try sticking to them for a full week. Eventually, they will become routine.

2. Use transitional bedding that works with fluctuating temps.

Spring marks the transition from winter to summer, and during this time of year, it’s not unusual for parts of the U.S. to experience temperature swings of 50 degrees or more within a single day, according to the National Weather Service. Warming temps mean it’s time to put away your heavy bedding in favor of more breathable, cooling options like bamboo sheets and waffle blankets from Bedsure. Moisture-wicking, they help to naturally regulate body temperature so you won’t wake up too hot or cold, even when the outside temperatures are unpredictable.

3. Wash bedding to avoid allergens that cause irritation.

Planet warming trends are making spring allergy season longer and more intense, and more adults are starting to suffer from allergy symptoms as a result. Allergens like pollen and dander love to collect in plush surfaces like your bedding and could be causing conditions like itchy nose, scratchy throat and congestion that are disruptive to sleep quality. Washing your bedding weekly in hot water or on the allergen setting can help to prevent a buildup of sleep-stealing allergens.

4. Manage your light intake.

Between the season’s increasingly early sunrise and digital screen overload, we are constantly exposed to light sources that may impact our brain’s perception of daytime, making it more difficult to fall asleep. Try tools like blackout curtains and sleep eye masks to block out excessive light sources and update the blue light or dark mode features on your screens and mobile devices to limit your intake of blue light before bed.

5. Refresh your bedroom style.

Make sure your bedroom is an inviting place for sleeping. Minimize clutter and look for bedding that incorporates soothing patterns and calming colors like neutral tones, grays, greens and blues. Reversible duvet cover sets like a vibrant spring green option from Bedsure deliver two styles in one to match your mood and bring a sense of calm to your sleep sanctuary.

Don’t let the arrival of spring get in the way of quality sleep. With the right bedding and a few tweaks to your daily routine, you’ll be waking up with a proverbial spring in your step in no time, ready to conquer the day.

2023-03-09T09:31:00

(BPT) – First responders handle the most high-risk, urgent and dangerous events in their communities. Police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics and other public health workers all fall under the category of first responders, and the nature of their jobs can take a toll on their overall well-being. They often experience high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicidal ideation, anxiety and depression.

Lexipol — a leader in policy, training and wellness support for first responders and public servants — is dedicated to helping public safety leaders promote mental health and wellness for their personnel. While there are many reasons to proactively address first responder wellness, the company has highlighted four reasons why public safety decision-makers should invest in mental health and wellness programs for first responders.

1. Better decision-making

It’s difficult for anyone to perform well at work when dealing with mental health issues. For first responders, mental illness can lead to critical mistakes and poor decision-making that impact them and the community. Firefighters, for example, regularly suffer from sleep disorders that can lead to poor cardiovascular health and vehicle crashes, two leading causes of line-of-duty death among firefighters.

For law enforcement agencies, poor decision-making stemming from mental health issues increases costs associated with personnel complaints, lawsuits and settlements.

2. Less sick leave

According to a 2020 study, workers who experienced psychosocial stressors at work had higher rates of sick leave because of mental health issues. Increasing incidences of sick leave or disability due to PTSD or other mental illness can make it difficult for first responders to continue in their profession. Also, from a financial standpoint, public safety agencies and departments rack up overtime costs when personnel take sick or disability leave.

3. Minimized stress

Because first responders are tasked with handling dangerous and complicated situations, they often experience stress that has real physical impacts. Stress isn’t just a mental health issue. It can also have physical side effects, including cardiac issues, diabetes, obesity, substance abuse and sleep issues. These health conditions make it difficult for first responders to function in their day-to-day lives both on and off the clock, and these conditions can follow them for years to come.

4. Decreased burnout and turnover

A study from Utah State University found that 70% of first responders reported not having enough time to recover from the traumatic events they experienced on the job. Without enough time to recover and a lack of access to mental health resources, many first responders experience burnout and leave the profession altogether. This means departments must spend more on recruiting, training, equipping new personnel and other turnover costs when first responders choose to leave the agency due to chronic stress or feeling unsupported.

While many agency and local government leaders want to support first responders’ mental health by providing policies, training and resources, the cultural stigma around mental health has prevented many officers from seeking help for emotional and behavioral issues.

Another issue is that many agencies are new to wellness and lack the internal expertise and resources to create confidential wellness support tailored specifically for public safety employees. They often don’t have an existing culture or framework to support first responders’ mental health. Also, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) often don’t meet the real needs of first responders. For example, a recent survey of firefighters who used wellness resources through an EAP found that 63% of respondents didn’t find the EAP program helpful.

While there are no easy solutions to mental health crises among first responders, Lexipol has created the Cordico wellness app to help agencies invest in and promote personnel wellness.

Cordico is an award-winning tech-forward wellness product that delivers high-quality tools, resources and assessments to public safety workers. Using this app, first responders can learn about behavioral health, build and maintain resilience and connect with therapists and peer support team members. The app does not collect personal data, ensuring anonymity, and offers a one-touch crisis response for users. To learn more about how this wellness solution can help enhance first responders’ overall wellness, visit Cordico.com.

2023-03-09T06:01:00

(BPT) – Are you having trouble driving at night? According to the National Safety Council, your depth perception and peripheral vision can be compromised when driving in the dark. Even with high beams, visibility is limited to 500 feet ahead of you, giving you less time to react if you see something on the road.

While it’s more difficult for anyone to drive at night, it can be even more dangerous if you’re older. As you age, your night vision worsens, meaning you’ll need to take extra precautions to drive safely at night. If you have trouble driving at night, check out these five tips to make nighttime drives safer.

1. Clean your car’s windshield, windows and mirrors

To drive safely at night, you’ll want to do whatever you can to reduce glare. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, glare can make it harder to gauge the distance of an object on the road. The easiest way to reduce glare is to clean glass and other reflective surfaces like your car’s windshield, windows and mirrors.

When light hits dirty or streaked glass, the light is scattered, creating glare. Also, dirty windows can reduce visibility, making it difficult to see objects and people that may be on the road. When cleaning, make sure to use a glass cleaner, microfiber cloth and a squeegee, and don’t forget to clean the inside of the windows and windshields.

2. Double-check your headlights

Get into the habit of regularly checking your turn signals, brake lights, low beams, high beams and daytime running lights. Properly working lights will illuminate the road in front of you and keep your car visible to other drivers.

Don’t forget to clean your headlights. Over time, your headlights can become clouded, dull and scratched. To ensure your lights shine as bright as possible, purchase a headlight polish kit to remove headlight haze.

3. Don’t look at headlights in oncoming traffic

According to State Farm, oncoming glare can affect drivers from as far as 3,000 feet away. If you see bright lights approaching, look down and to the right and follow the white traffic line on the right side of your vehicle.

Also, if you’re using your high beams, make sure to switch to low beams when you see a car approaching, so you don’t blind oncoming traffic.

4. Get glasses with non-glare lenses

Even when taking precautions against glare, you can’t eliminate the risk completely. To help you when glare can’t be avoided, consider buying a pair of non-glare glasses or lenses for nighttime driving.

Non-glare lenses typically have an anti-reflective coating to reduce incoming glare, increasing the amount of light to your eyes and making it easier to see. This coating also makes it easier to clean your lenses, improving your vision day and night.

5. Schedule an eye exam

If you’ve tried the above four tips and still have trouble with reduced night vision and driving after dark, it may be time to schedule an eye exam with your eye doctor. A great way to save on your eye exam is with a vision insurance plan, such as a VSP Individual Vision Plan.

VSP has the largest independent doctor network, so you’re sure to find a provider close by. Don’t worry about waiting for an enrollment or waiting period. You can purchase VSP vision insurance at any time. Best of all, you can save on additional glasses or sunglasses, including lens enhancements, from a VSP network doctor within 12 months of your last exam.

To learn more about vision insurance plans and find the best vision plan for you, visit VSPDirect.com.

Driving at night can be nerve-wracking at the best of times. Using these five tips, you can improve your nighttime visibility and help keep yourself and other drivers safe.

2023-03-02T13:01:00

(BPT) – Three-time cancer survivor Wenora Johnson shares what she’s learned about hereditary colon cancer:

Most of us know of someone who has battled colorectal cancer. It is the second deadliest form of cancer and affects about 150,000 Americans each year. But the disease doesn’t always strike at random — as many as 10% of colorectal cancer patients have an inherited gene mutation that caused their illness. I should know, because I was one of them.

Most people diagnosed with colorectal cancer are at least 65 years old, but I was only 45 when doctors discovered my cancer, which they believed had been growing inside me for at least a decade. As someone who exercises regularly and maintains a healthy diet, I was shocked by my diagnosis. My doctors and I assumed that it was simply a case of bad luck.

I underwent surgery and three months of chemotherapy, which cured my cancer. For a few years, I seemed to be in the clear. What I didn’t know was that I had Lynch syndrome, the most common cause of inherited co­lorectal cancer in people under 50.

What is Lynch syndrome?

Roughly 1 million Americans are believed to have Lynch syndrome, but only 5-10% are aware of their status. Caused by a genetic mutation unknowingly passed from parents to children, Lynch syndrome increases a person’s chances of developing more than a dozen types of cancer — especially colorectal and endometrial (uterine) cancer. Those affected often have a family history of cancer and are diagnosed at a younger-than-average age.

Other than my mother passing away from brain cancer, I had no warning signs that Lynch syndrome ran in my family. However, shortly after my own battle with cancer in 2011, my 41-year-old brother was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer. Later, my aunt revealed that my grandfather had died from colorectal cancer at age 38. In light of this new information, my oncologist recommended that I undergo genetic testing, which is when I discovered that I have Lynch syndrome.

Preventing and detecting cancer early

I’ve heard people say that they don’t want to get genetic testing because there’s no way to prevent hereditary cancer, therefore it’s better not to know. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.

About 90% of people whose colorectal cancer is discovered and treated early are still alive five years later. The recommended age to begin screening for colorectal cancer for the average person is 45. For those with Lynch syndrome, that’s far too late.

Many people with Lynch syndrome are first diagnosed with cancer in their 30s or even 20s. I recently spoke with a father, Junius Nottingham, who lost his 30-year-old son to aggressive colorectal and liver cancer. If his son, Jeremy, had known he had Lynch syndrome, his healthcare providers likely would have referred him for regular colonoscopies beginning in his early 20s — a decision that might have saved his life. The same goes for my brother, who ultimately died from colorectal cancer last year at the age of 52.

Women have additional options to safeguard their health. Lynch syndrome is linked to a 15-55% chance of developing endometrial cancer, and doctors typically recommend that patients have their ovaries and uterus removed by age 35. When I discovered I had Lynch syndrome, I was already 15 years past that deadline, so I scheduled the procedure right away — and it wasn’t a moment too soon. When the surgeons looked at my uterus, they found that I already had stage 1 endometrial cancer. Fortunately, I didn’t need further treatment because the cancer was removed at such an early stage — before it had the opportunity to spread.

Could I be at increased risk?

If you or a close relative has been diagnosed with colorectal or endometrial cancer — especially at a younger-than-average age — it could be a sign that Lynch syndrome runs in your family. If you’re wondering whether you should get tested, FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Hereditary Cancer Empowered) provides up-to-date information and a list of questions to help you decide whether genetic counseling makes sense for you.

If you’re not at risk, but you know someone who might be, please talk to them about Lynch syndrome and the importance of knowing their family’s cancer history. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, so it’s the perfect time to share knowledge that could save someone’s life.

2023-03-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – Written by: Barbara McGuirk, M.D., a Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Specialist, and the Director of Reproductive Surgery at RADfertility and Program Director of the Endometriosis & Pelvic Pain Center

Endometriosis is a serious health issue that occurs when cells similar to the lining of the uterus (called the “endometrium”) grow in other areas of the body, such as the pelvis, ovaries or abdomen. Over time, the irritation caused by these cells can create scar-like tissue called adhesions that can twist and tie the organs into unnatural positions, causing severe pain and in some instances, infertility.

While some celebrities, including Tia Mowry and Olivia Culpo, have opened up about their personal battles with endometriosis, helping to shed light on this invisible disease, too many individuals are still unaware of what endometriosis is and the impact it has on so many lives.

Here are four facts everyone should know about endometriosis:

1. It’s common, but often undiagnosed

Endometriosis impacts roughly 11% of individuals assigned female at birth. Unfortunately, individuals often experience pain and other endometriosis symptoms for many years before receiving a proper diagnosis. In fact, several surveys of people with endometriosis reported that it can take five to 10 years before a diagnosis is made and that they may see more than five health care providers before this diagnosis is made.

Many people incorrectly assume — or are even told by healthcare providers — that their symptoms are normal, but nothing about chronic pain is “normal.” Because of this, oftentimes, endometriosis is not diagnosed until they have difficulty getting pregnant.

2. Endometriosis can cause a wide range of symptoms

Pelvic pain and heavy or irregular periods are a few symptoms typically associated with endometriosis. However, depending on where the endometriosis exists in the body, it can impact the symptoms the person may experience.

Individuals with endometriosis may also have nausea, vomiting, pain when urinating and/or when having a bowel movement, urgency to urinate, painful intercourse, constipation, diarrhea, infertility, nerve pain/sciatica and more.

Endometriosis is often categorized into stages (I-IV) based on the number and size of endometriosis lesions, as well as where they’re located and how deep they are in the tissues. The higher the stage, the more widespread the endometriosis is. However, it is important to note that the stage of endometriosis does not necessarily correspond to the severity of symptoms. For instance, a person with stage I or II endometriosis may experience debilitating chronic pain, where someone with stage IV endometriosis may have few or no symptoms.

3. What you eat can impact your symptoms

Inflammation and high levels of estrogen can make endometriosis symptoms worse; there are certain foods that can influence both factors. I recommend the Whole30 program for patients with endometriosis. The program, similar to traditional elimination diets, encourages you to cut out inflammatory foods from your diet, such as sugar, grains, legumes, dairy and alcohol for 30 days. During this 30-day period, you should eat lots of vegetables, moderate amounts of protein from meat, poultry, seafood and eggs, fruits, and healthy fats from foods like nuts, seeds, oils, avocados and olives. This nutrition program helps to reset your digestive tract and reduce inflammation. After the 30 days, you can slowly reintroduce foods back into your diet one by one to help you determine which foods might trigger your endometriosis symptoms. While changing your diet may not eliminate all symptoms, it could reduce the severity and improve your quality of life.

4. You are more likely to experience depression and anxiety

Being told your pain is “normal” and enduring years of chronic health issues can take a serious toll on your mental health. One study found that individuals with endometriosis had an increased risk of developing major depression and anxiety disorders compared to those without it. Sufferers of endometriosis are also more likely to self-harm.

Unfortunately, people with endometriosis may not get the emotional support they need from those around them due to lack of understanding of the disease.

What to do if you think you have endometriosis

While laparoscopic surgery is often described as the gold standard for confirming endometriosis, an experienced doctor can make a diagnosis of “clinically suspected” endometriosis and consider less invasive forms of treatment depending on your goals (reducing pain, pregnancy, etc.). Remember, always advocate for yourself. If you suspect something is wrong and you’re being told otherwise, then it’s time to seek a second opinion.

2023-03-01T08:13:00

(BPT) – Lawns are seemingly everywhere and while you may take them for granted, they’re actually hard-working members of an ecosystem benefitting urban and suburban spaces in multiple ways. If lawns were eliminated, climate change challenges would significantly increase, including higher air temperatures, more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and less oxygen. Lawns are surprisingly good at capturing rain; without them, rainfall would run off instead of infiltrating the ground, increasing flooding. Lawns also capture a wide variety of environmental pollutants, so without them there would be more air pollution.

“It’s interesting how little most people know about the environmental benefits of natural grass lawns and green spaces,” said Britt Wood, CEO, National Association of Landscape Professionals. “People have long known about the benefits of trees — but less about the benefits their lawns deliver.”

How lawns benefit your environment

Here are facts from The Lawn Institute you might not know about how grass lawns contribute to the well-being of communities.

1. Breathe easier: One 5,000-square-foot grass lawn can produce enough oxygen daily to support 14 to 34 people.

2. Reduce carbon dioxide: Tackling climate change involves finding places to store carbon from the atmosphere. Carbon modeling of a suburban home on a half-acre lot, with landscape beds, shrubs, trees and a grass lawn, indicates the lawn is responsible for 81-90% of the carbon captured. In a recent study of a typical metropolitan area, low- and medium-density residential lots accounted for over 50% of carbon captured in urban green spaces.

3. Keep cool: You’ve probably done it — walking barefoot on an asphalt street in the summer can be painfully hot. How did you find relief? You headed for the nearest lawn. Lawns can be up to 60 degrees cooler than surrounding pavement. Plants, including natural turfgrass, act like air conditioners due to a naturally occurring cooling process known as evapotranspiration.

4. Lessen flooding: Lawns naturally provide excellent water filtration, sediment reduction, runoff control, flood control and pollutant reduction. Natural grass has also been shown to reduce runoff and soil erosion from 6-18 times greater than bare soil.

5. Increase home values: Aesthetics matter. A well-maintained lawn increases home values an estimated 10-15%, and a consumer survey by the NALP found 79% of Americans believe a lawn is an important feature when renting or buying a home.

From battery-powered mowers and irrigation with smart sensors that detect rainfall to soil sensors and more, today’s lawn care practices are evolving to be more sustainable in caring for backyard and neighborhood green spaces, so they’ll provide even greater environmental benefits.

Common myths about lawns

Still on the fence about natural grass? Here are facts that set the record straight about lawns.

Myth: Lawns are a monoculture.
Fact: Not true. The average lawn contains a variety of species of grasses, plants and weeds.

Myth: Lawns don’t support biodiversity.
Fact: The soil underneath lawns teems with life: as many as 52 different arthropod families, 28 genera of nematodes plus a complex network of micro-organisms.

Myth: Lawns use too much water.
Fact: Most suburban homes don’t use irrigation (only 37% of new homes in 2020 were built with irrigation systems, according to the Irrigation Association). Many lawns in non-arid areas get much or all needed moisture from rainwater. In addition, turfgrass researchers have been developing new varieties requiring little to no additional water.

Myth: Lawns are a waste of time and resources.
Fact: According to a survey by the NALP, 79% of Americans say having a lawn is important to them. Working and playing in yards reduces stress and encourages physical activity, and doctors agree that fresh air, sunshine and exercise are beneficial for physical and mental health.

Myth: Lawn pesticides are unsafe.
Fact: Pesticides are among the most rigidly regulated commodities in the U.S., undergoing a rigorous approval process by the EPA that often takes over a decade. According to the Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment, 77% of Americans are not opposed to residential pesticide use, because they want to protect their families from invasive species and diseases caused by insects.

Stewarding local green spaces is vital

The U.S. is a vast country with many different climates. In areas with adequate rainfall, lawns comprise a valuable part of the environment. Where water is scarce, however, chosen plants and grasses should be drought-resistant and well-adapted to thrive in local conditions. If towns and cities have fewer green spaces, residents will struggle with rainwater runoff issues and heat island effects, highlighting the need for appropriate green space management nationwide.

“The more people know about the environmental benefits of green spaces, the better equipped they are to make good choices about prioritizing their care,” concluded Wood.

To learn more about how to care for your lawn and maximize its environmental benefits, visit TruthAboutLawns.org.

2023-02-28T11:01:00

(BPT) – This content is sponsored by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. (MTPA) and is intended for U.S. audiences only. Ned Patterson is an actual patient who is taking RADICAVA^® (edaravone).

The information provided here is general in nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You are strongly encouraged to seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

Individual results may vary. Please see Important Safety Information below, full Prescribing Information and Patient Information on Radicava.com.

I’ve always been just a skinny old boy from Blacksburg, Virginia, full of mischief and charm. Attitude—it’s kind of my life story. I’ve always felt it was a choice, and one that I was trained into by my mother, God rest her soul. It’s our choice to look at life with the idea that the glass is two-thirds full. To heck with the half full! My family and I are going to grab it and keep appreciating life together.

The road to diagnosis

My journey with ALS started when I noticed it was getting harder to mow the lawn. I had to take breaks to catch my breath and get my strength back, even though our yard isn’t very large. It was a deterioration of things, like when my strength started to slide. That was when my bride and I first started to get suspicious. Things were just not right.

Moving forward from the diagnosis

When we got the ALS diagnosis—swallowing that kind of news—it took me and my wife a while to recover. The panic set in first, with us saying “What do we do? How do we fix this? What’s available?” Frankly, my family and friends were crushed. It was very depressing—a very sad time. Everyone around me was incredibly supportive, though. And the company I work for and my colleagues in the industry have also been really incredible. I’m fortunate to say I’ve been overwhelmed with kindness.

Living in this fear of “What’s next? How am I doing? When is the end going to be?” has been the biggest challenge. I choose to fall back on my faith. I consider my illness and my challenge part of my faith journey.

Learning to focus on what’s important

I came to the point where if I look at my diagnosis in a panic, I’d never get anything done. I needed to treat every day I’m given as a blessing and work with a mindset that we’re all mortal and we need to move forward. That helped me immensely with the realization that whatever life and ALS throws at me, I’ve got today.

When I get up in the morning, the first thing I do after getting out of bed is make it and get ready for the day. As long as I can physically continue to make my bed, that’s what I’ll do. By my example, I want people to see that life may throw you some curveballs, but you can still enjoy life and be a positive example.

Taking control of my life

Since my diagnosis, I have tried to maintain as much of the lifestyle that I enjoyed before by continuing to work full time. I work from home remotely rather than onsite at the office. ALS, however, has not been without challenges as far as the erosion of day-to-day activities, and I try and keep my body moving and my attitude positive so that I can enjoy life to the fullest.

Talking to my doctor about RADICAVA^® (edaravone)

I asked my neurologist early on, after my diagnosis, about RADICAVA^® having been referred by an acquaintance who was diagnosed and was taking it himself. I learned from my neurologist that it may help slow the loss of physical function caused by ALS. We also talked about the side effects. At the end of our discussion, we decided it was the best choice for me to start RADICAVA^®. If someone living with ALS asked me whether I thought they should try RADICAVA^®, I would encourage them to talk with their doctor about it.

Want to learn more about RADICAVA^®? Watch the How RADICAVA^® May Help video at HowRadicavaMayHelp.com.

Individual results may vary. RADICAVA^® is shown to slow the loss of physical function as measured by the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R). Talk to your doctor about all the benefits and risks associated with treatment.

RADICAVA IV and RADICAVA ORS are indicated for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Do not receive RADICAVA (edaravone) IV or RADICAVA ORS (edaravone) if you are allergic to edaravone or any of the ingredients in RADICAVA IV and RADICAVA ORS.

Please see Important Safety Information below and full Prescribing Information and Patient Information on Radicava.com.

Switching from RADICAVA^® (edaravone) IV to RADICAVA ORS^® (edaravone)

I have been taking RADICAVA^® IV since 2018. When I found out RADICAVA ORS^® oral treatment was available, I was on the horn to my neurologist immediately. I meet with my neurologist quarterly at his regional clinic. After we talked more about RADICAVA ORS^®, we decided it was the right move for me. Now that I’ve been taking RADICAVA ORS^®, I can say it really fits into my life’s routines.

Want to learn more about how RADICAVA ORS^® was designed with ALS patients in mind? Visit TakingRadicavaORS.com.

Controlled portions of clinical trials have not extended beyond 12 months. Individual results may vary. Please see full Instructions For Use at RadicavaInstructionsForUse.com

My advice for others

The main thing I wished I had realized when I was diagnosed with ALS was that my life wasn’t over yet. ALS has actually proven to be a life-giving sentence to me. It has taught me to live each day to the fullest, and to consider each day as a blessing. I wish I had this reality going into it, and before, so that I could have lived my life a little differently. I’ll encourage any of my fellow PALS (people living with ALS) in this world to view each day as a blessing and to live it in the fullest that you possibly can.

If you want to hear more from me, you can watch my video at NedALSStory.com.

Sharing my story

Sharing my ALS story has inspired me to continue living my life to the fullest, but my story is just one of many. I encourage others living with the disease to share their story because people in our community have a lot to share. Questions and fears, as well as stories of courage and hope. Whether someone living with ALS is searching for more answers about the disease, or for new ways to live each day with purpose, hearing from others with similar experiences may make a world of difference. The Share Your Story program allows real people living with ALS and/or their caregivers to share their own experiences of living with ALS and why treatment with RADICAVA^® or RADICAVA ORS^® matters to them.

Interested in sharing your story about ALS and RADICAVA^®? Learn more about participating in the Share Your Story program at ShareYourALSStory.com.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not receive RADICAVA (edaravone) or RADICAVA ORS (edaravone) if you are allergic to edaravone or any of the ingredients in RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS.

Before you take RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have asthma.
• are allergic to other medicines.
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS will harm your unborn baby.
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS passes into your breastmilk. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will receive RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS or breastfeed.

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 RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS?

RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS may cause serious side effects, including hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions and sulfite allergic reactions.

• Hypersensitivity reactions have happened in people receiving RADICAVA or taking RADICAVA ORS and can happen after your medicine has been given.
• RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS contain sodium bisulfite, a sulfite that may cause a type of allergic reaction that can be serious and life-threatening. Sodium bisulfite can also cause less severe asthma episodes in certain people. Sulfite sensitivity can happen more often in people who have asthma than in people who do not have asthma.
• Tell your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest emergency room if you have any of the following symptoms: hives; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; fainting; breathing problems; wheezing; trouble swallowing; dizziness; itching; or an asthma attack (in people with asthma).

Your healthcare provider will monitor you during treatment to watch for signs and symptoms of all the serious side effects and allergic reactions.

The most common side effects include bruising (contusion), problems walking (gait disturbance), and headache.

These are not all the possible side effects of RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to www.fda.gov/medwatch or Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. at 1-888-292-0058.

INDICATION
RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS are indicated for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

For more information, including full Prescribing Information, please visit www.RADICAVA.com.