Category: Brandpoint Health

2022-11-02T06:01:00

• Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking medicines that affect the way certain liver enzymes work. Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if your medicine is one of these.

What are other possible side effects of XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

If you are a carrier of the Hepatitis B or C virus (viruses that affect the liver), the virus may become active while you use XELJANZ. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests before starting and while using treatment with XELJANZ. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any signs of these symptoms: feel very tired, little or no appetite, clay-colored bowel movements, chills, muscle aches, skin rash, skin or eyes look yellow, vomiting, fevers, stomach discomfort, or dark urine.

Common side effects in people with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), headache, diarrhea, nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), and high blood pressure (hypertension).

Common side effects in people with ulcerative colitis include nasal congestion, sore throat, runny nose (nasopharyngitis), increased cholesterol levels, headache, upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), increased muscle enzyme levels, rash, diarrhea, and shingles (herpes zoster).

Common side effects in children (2 & older) with polyarticular course juvenile arthritis include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), nasal congestion, sore throat, and runny nose (nasopharyngitis), headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

XELJANZ & Pregnancy

XELJANZ may affect the ability of females to get pregnant. It is not known if this will change after stopping XELJANZ. It is not known if XELJANZ will harm an unborn baby.

• Pregnancy Registry: Pfizer has a registry for pregnant women who take XELJANZ. The purpose of this registry is to check the health of the pregnant mother and her baby. If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking XELJANZ, talk to your healthcare provider about how you can join this pregnancy registry, or you may contact the registry at 1-877-311-8972 to enroll.

You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take XELJANZ or breastfeed. You should not do both. After you stop your treatment with XELJANZ do not start breastfeeding again until 18 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ or 36 hours after your last dose of XELJANZ XR.

What is XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR?

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR (tofacitinib) is used to treat adults with:

• Moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis when 1 or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
• Active psoriatic arthritis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
• Moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have been used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated
• Active ankylosing spondylitis when 1 or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker medicines have bene used, and did not work well or cannot be tolerated

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in people with Hepatitis B or C.

XELJANZ/XELJANZ XR/XELJANZ Oral Solution is not recommended for people with severe liver problems.

It is not known if XELJANZ/XELJANZ Oral Solution is safe and effective in children for treatment other than active polyarticular course juvenile arthritis.

It is not known if XELJANZ XR is safe and effective in children.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING and Medication Guide.

August 2022; PP-XEL-USA-7764

2022-11-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. Amy and Kim were compensated by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. to share their story.

For the approximately 40 million people who care for loved ones, this November is a time to recognize their important role during National Family Caregivers Month. Caregiving can encompass a variety of activities and their support is a critical component in the lives of those who require it.

Amy grew up as an athlete and played sports throughout college, earning 10 varsity letters. After her collegiate sports career came to an end in 1981, a friend asked if she would be interested in joining a community-level slow pitch softball team. That’s where she met her partner Kim, whose parents were sponsoring the softball team.

In 1996, Amy was diagnosed with major depressive disorder and worked with her doctors to find the right treatment plan. The diagnosis came after several major life-changing events, including an internal conflict she experienced after learning that members of her own religious community had challenging views of her relationship with Kim. Overtime, Amy’s mental health became stable, but then in the early 2010s, after experiencing extreme job dissatisfaction and the death of both of her parents, she slipped back into a deep depressive state. In 2019, she worked with her doctors and therapists to find the most effective treatment and began taking antipsychotics, which again helped to stabilize her condition.

A few months later, Amy started to experience involuntary movements, including jaw swinging, chewing movements, grimacing, and movements while sitting. “It all began in kind of a blur,” said Amy. “When I first started having the movements, I just thought, why am I doing this?” Kim also noticed these symptoms. She pointed them out and suggested that Amy talk to her doctor about the movements.

About a year and a half after realizing she had involuntary movements, Amy was referred to a neurologist, who diagnosed her with tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD is a movement disorder characterized by abnormal, involuntary movements of the tongue, jaw, trunk, or extremities, which may be disruptive and negatively impact those living with the condition. TD is associated with prolonged use of certain kinds of mental health medicines (such as antipsychotics), which help control dopamine receptors in the brain. Approximately 600,000 people in the U.S. may be affected by this condition.

Once Kim knew of Amy’s diagnosis and realized Amy may be living with TD for the rest of their lives, she took a step back to determine what she could do for Amy. Kim learned to become more aware and understanding of Amy’s needs. “Amy and I have a strong relationship. We can talk to each other and say, ‘this is what I need from you,’” Kim said. “It’s a daily thing and we’re working through it together.”

To help manage Amy’s TD, her neurologist recommended INGREZZA^® (valbenazine) capsules, the only once-daily treatment for adults with TD. INGREZZA is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with movements in the face, tongue, or other body parts that cannot be controlled. It is not known if INGREZZA is safe and effective in children. The most common side effect is sleepiness (somnolence).

After Amy worked with her neurologist to find the most effective dosage, her symptoms became less prevalent, and with that she felt more confident. Individual results may vary. Some taking INGREZZA begin to notice a reduction in movements at 2 weeks with clinical results at 6 weeks*.

Please see full Important Safety Information and Prescribing Information below.

Kim saw the improvements in Amy’s symptoms a few weeks after Amy started taking INGREZZA. “Her whole attitude is different. She seems more relaxed now, while before I could tell she would be trying to stop moving, or chewing a lot of gum to hide the symptoms,” said Kim. “We are not back to our everyday life quite yet, but it feels more comfortable.” Kim is proud of her progress and plans to be there every step of the way.

By sharing their story during National Family Caregivers Month, Amy and Kim hope to shed a light on the importance of supporting a loved one with a mental health condition and helping to recognize potential symptoms of TD. They encourage others to know what TD looks like, understand the cause and the impact, and encourage people to talk to their healthcare providers about TD or related disorders.

To learn more about TD and INGREZZA, talk to your doctor or visit INGREZZA.com for more safety information.

Important Information

Approved Use

INGREZZA^® (valbenazine) capsules is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with movements in the face, tongue, or other body parts that cannot be controlled (tardive dyskinesia).

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

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not take INGREZZA if you:

• are allergic to valbenazine, or any of the ingredients in INGREZZA.

INGREZZA may cause serious side effects, including:

• Sleepiness (somnolence). Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how INGREZZA affects you.
• Heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation). INGREZZA may cause a heart problem known as QT prolongation.

Symptoms of QT prolongation may include:

fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat	shortness of breath
dizziness or fainting

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have a change in your heartbeat (a fast or irregular heartbeat), or if you faint.

• Abnormal movements (Parkinson-like). Symptoms include: shaking, body stiffness, trouble moving or walking, or keeping your balance.

Before taking INGREZZA, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions including if you: have liver or heart problems, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

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

The most common side effect of INGREZZA is sleepiness (somnolence). Other side effects include changes in balance (balance problems, dizziness) or an increased risk of falls, headache, feelings of restlessness, dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.

These are not all of the possible side effects of INGREZZA. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit MedWatch at www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see accompanying INGREZZA full Product Information.

*INGREZZA was studied in a 6 week clinical trial. A total of 234 people participated in the study. Results were based on 79 people taking the recommended dose of 80 mg.

This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. Amy and Kim were compensated by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. to share their story.

©2022 Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. All Rights Reserved. CP-VBZ-US-2151 11/2022

2022-11-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – Health insurance can help protect you from unexpected costs if you or someone in your family gets injured or becomes ill. If you do not have health insurance through a job, Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), or another source, Individual and Family Plans available in the Health Insurance Marketplace can get you covered, and this is the time of year to find a plan that helps provide the best coverage for your and your family’s needs.

During the open enrollment period, there are options available that may include subsidies to help you save money out of pocket, if you’re eligible, and many people qualify for plans as low as $0 per month depending on their incomeⁱ. If you find comparing and choosing healthcare confusing, you can get help navigating your options so you can make a good decision to help safeguard your health, not just when you are sick or injured, but also through preventive care like health screenings, vaccinations, wellness visits and more — so you can stay as healthy as possible.

UnitedHealthcare Individual and Family Plans

For 2023, UnitedHealthcare is offering coverage options in the Marketplace in these 22 statesⁱⁱ, with enrollment beginning on November 1, 2022:

Alabama	Arizona
Colorado	Florida
Georgia	Illinois
Kansas	Louisiana
Maryland	Massachusetts
Michigan	Mississippi
Missouri	Nevada
New York	North Carolina
Ohio	Oklahoma
Tennessee	Texas
Virginia	Washington

The 2023 Individual and Family Plans through UnitedHealthcare in these states provide a wide range of benefits, as well as a simple enrollment process and a quality service experience once you become a member.

Health benefits included on UnitedHealthcare Individual and Family Marketplace Plans

Besides being able to find competitively-priced health plans and access to healthcare providers in-network, these plans may includeⁱⁱⁱ:

• $0 unlimited primary care
• $0 unlimited virtual urgent care^iv
• Dental and vision coverage
• Prescriptions as low as $3
• Complimentary digital fitness classes^v

Some plans also offer 24/7 virtual visits for urgent, primary, and specialty care in English and Spanish, at no additional cost^iv.

Additional highlights include:

• An opportunity to earn a $100 gift card^vi
• Health savings account options

How to enroll

To help you figure out the type of coverage that may be good for you, think back on your doctor visits, prescriptions and other medical care. This may give you an idea of what you may want to consider moving forward.

Then, go to UHCExchange.com (available in Spanish: UHCExchange.com/es) to learn more about your choices, and enroll in a plan. The 2023 open enrollment period goes from November 1, 2022 through January 15, 2023 in most states, and if you want your coverage active on January 1, 2023 you must enroll by December 15, 2022.

If you’d like assistance with finding the right plan for you and your family, you can also call 1-877-649-9797 and talk to a licensed insurance agent.

By enrolling now, you may be better prepared for whatever the next year may bring. Visit UHCExchange.com to get started today^vii.

2022-10-31T17:17:00

(BPT) – One of the best tools available to personalize treatments to help improve outcomes for women with breast cancer is gene expression profiling. The ability to determine highly specific information about an individual tumor by analyzing how the genes express themselves differently provides an opportunity to identify the right treatment for the right patient at the right time. Gene expression profiling gives unprecedented levels of information to help a woman and her doctor make the most informed decision about her treatment plan.

However, certain genomic tests have blind spots that can lead to undertreatment. A recent publication has shown a 21-gene assay to be less accurate in providing information for Black women, a group at higher risk than most. According to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, while breast cancer incidence rates among Black and white women are similar, their mortality rates are markedly different — 41% higher for Black women. And among women under 50, this disparity is even greater: the mortality rate of young Black women from breast cancer is double that of young white women.

Disparities in cancer care for Black women are found in all aspects of a patient’s experience — including access and representation in clinical trials, treatment, care center access and testing. While there are many complex socioeconomic factors that contribute to these racial disparities, differences in biology could play an important role. Black women are disproportionally affected by more aggressive subtypes of cancer, according to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. They often can benefit from more aggressive treatments or targeted therapies, so it is critical Black women and their providers have the addition of biological insights into the tumor when making treatment decisions.

Genomic insights should be accurate for everyone

Fortunately, there are gene expression tests that have more consistent results in Black women than others on the market. One of them, the MammaPrint^® test, analyzes 70 of the most important genes associated with the risk of distant metastasis — in other words, the risk the cancer will spread to distant sites. With results typically available in six days or less, MammaPrint enables quicker, more comprehensive biological insights into the tumor to enable informed decisions on pre- and post-operative treatments which can easily be ordered on a biopsy or surgical sample. It is critical healthcare providers and their patients make correct treatment decisions at the time of diagnosis so they have the best chance of cure. If the best treatment for that unique tumor isn’t selected, and the patient develops metastatic disease, it then becomes an incurable disease which will shorten the life of that woman.

It is so important to integrate all relevant information on that individual woman’s breast cancer, including genomic information into the biology of her tumor, when selecting the appropriate therapy to maximize cure while maintaining quality of life. The hardest dilemma for providers is finding the right balance between treatments aimed at maximizing cure, with the least toxic options to achieve that cure. In a recent landmark trial, nearly half of the women that appeared to have high-risk tumors based on conventional clinical assessments were actually found to have a MammaPrint Low Risk result, and were able to safely forgo chemotherapy in favor of other less toxic treatment options without compromising their chances for survival.

Another innovative test, BluePrint^®, that can be ordered with MammaPrint, examines 80 genes to identify the molecular subtype of an individual tumor. The tumor is then accurately classified as one of three subtypes, revealing valuable information about its behavior, what drives its growth, long-term prognosis, and response to therapy. When the test is ordered on the biopsy tissue, results are typically ready in time for a patient’s pre-operative consultation, so the care team has the right insights for the right treatment at the right time. In a recent study, 22% of patients were further classified from their original subtype based on clinical or pathological factors into a molecular subtype — identifying an opportunity to tailor appropriate treatments to that patient’s specific molecular profile – which they otherwise would not have known — and predict likelihood of treatment response.

“Having detailed information about the biology of a woman’s cancer quickly helps pinpoint the most effective and timely treatment, and by ordering MammaPrint and BluePrint, a physician will be more confident in selecting the treatment option best suited for her individual tumor, no matter her race,” said acclaimed breast surgeon Dr. Princess Thomas Williams from the Breast Care Specialists of Carolina. “These tests provide the most specific information we can currently get to help women of all backgrounds receive the best possible health outcomes, and it’s important to remember not all genomic tests are the same. Using the most comprehensive one can ensure the results are consistent regardless of race and ethnicity so you can rely on the insights when making critical treatment decisions.”

Because the MammaPrint and BluePrint tests analyze a total of 150 genes in the tumor — more than any other RNA gene expression test — they are able to capture the diversity of pathways driving tumor metastasis and tumor growth. In fact, the BluePrint test is the only test capable of identifying the hormone-receptor-positive cancer tumors that will actually clinically behave like triple negative breast cancers which are some of the aggressive tumors necessitating more aggressive therapy to ensure strong outcomes. Studies have shown Black women had more than double the chance of having that higher risk ER+/Basal type of tumor than white women. Only BluePrint can identify these higher risk Black women who otherwise could have been undertreated had they not had their gene expression profile.

The need for more diverse clinical testing

Beyond the immediate need to ensure each woman with breast cancer has the information she needs to make timely decisions about treatment with her care team, there is also a need for genomic information that is representative of and effective for diverse patient groups. Black women comprise only 1-3% of clinical trial participants, despite being seven times more likely to die as result of breast cancer than white women.

It’s important to shine a light on these disparities, and more progress needs to be made to improve outcomes for Black women with breast cancer. It’s vital to recruit more Black women to participate in clinical trials so they are represented in the data being used to guide care. Improvements can start just days after diagnosis by giving Black women access to the best gene expression profiling of their tumor that they can rely on for their specific cancer.

To learn more and access resources on the right genomic test for you, visit agendia.com.

2022-10-28T06:01:00

(BPT) – Kim Pfleeger was ready. Clad in gym clothes, she leaned against the wall outside the locker room, eager to return to the basketball court. Her dad, Randy, would be out any second, and they’d finally settle who really was the best free-throw shooter in the family — or maybe they would just play a friendly game of one-on-one and enjoy each other’s company like usual.

Any moment now, Randy would emerge from the locker room, and it would be game on. But Kim waited. And waited.

Nearly an hour passed before her father emerged.

“It was very frightening and scary,” Kim said. She found out later that her dad, who had early-onset Parkinson’s disease, experienced a freezing episode in the locker room, unable to move for a half hour. Kim said this marked a turning point for her as a care partner in her father’s journey with the neurodegenerative disorder. “That’s when I really realized he couldn’t overcome some of the symptoms he was experiencing. There were some he could work through but some he couldn’t.”

Every day was different

Randy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease when Kim was in high school. She said it was hard for her to understand his shocking diagnosis and how it would impact him since he was such an active person.

As the disease progressed, Randy was forced to rely more heavily on his family. He retired from his job as a trial attorney and went from running to riding his bike to cross-country skiing to swimming, adjusting to stay active for as long as possible. He didn’t want to stay home and watch TV — he was a doer, a talker and a jokester who craved company.

Kim, a Ph.D. and senior scientific director of Neuroscience Development at AbbVie, a research-based global biopharmaceutical company, said she remembers every day being different. Days that Randy rallied were followed by days that seemed especially tough. But Kim said he was never bitter, always looking for solutions and separating himself from the disorder, saying, “It’s the disease, not me.”

When the disease progressed to the point where Randy couldn’t physically care for himself, Kim said her stepmom became his primary care partner. She devoted her time to helping him day and night. “She had to deal with a lot which took a mental and physical toll. I’ll be forever grateful for the care she gave my father,” Kim said.

The weight of advanced Parkinson’s disease

Research shows that more than half of caregivers for people with advanced Parkinson’s disease report moderate to severe burden of disease and an impact on their quality of life and overall health.

Dr. Jill Farmer, DO, MPH, assistant professor of neurology, and director, Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorder Program, Global Neuroscience Institute, says caring for people with advanced Parkinson’s can result in significant mental and physical strain. “From practical matters like medication administration to assisting with hygiene routines, to being their loved ones’ advocates, care partners take on many responsibilities that increase as the disease progresses,” Farmer said. “It’s important for care partners to take care of themselves and their needs – it is not selfish, it is essential. Finding a network of support and methods to reduce stress are vital to caring for yourself and your loved one. It’s critical they have reassurance that it’s hard and completely normal to get frustrated and sad. Realizing they are not alone and sharing experiences helps normalize an abnormal situation. These connections can be made through support groups, therapy, or being honest with family and friends.”

Staying positive

When Randy found out that the company Kim works for is actively involved in Parkinson’s disease research, he was thrilled. “He was so proud of me working for AbbVie and that we were investigating therapies for people [like him],” Kim said.

Despite Randy’s difficult journey and its impact on him and his family, Kim said he always maintained a positive attitude. He would get frustrated at his symptoms, but he didn’t let that stop him from making the most of every day. As he progressed further, eventually developing dementia, Kim said there were still “really great” moments when he was cognizant and engaging with others. She could see him in those moments — her dad was still there, still joking, even if he had changed.

If you, or someone you know, needs help in identifying changes in PD symptoms and could benefit from tips on how to discuss these changes with a healthcare provider, visit MyPD-Care.com.

Sponsored by AbbVie

2022-10-27T10:01:00

(BPT) – It’s no secret there’s been a spotlight on the vital work of healthcare heroes in recent years. From social media shout-outs and yard signs to daily claps and cheers, the impact of healthcare workers like nurses and doctors is recognized daily. But there are other heroes working behind the scenes to improve patients’ lives who you likely haven’t heard of. Biologic coordinators have an immeasurable impact on a patient’s life from the onset of their treatment journey and beyond treatment — yet too often, their work goes unrecognized. Care for those with immune-mediated diseases would not be possible without the incredible work of biologic coordinators. Read on to learn more about these unsung heroes and the important role they play.

What Is a Biologic Coordinator?

A biologic coordinator is a key member of a medical practice’s office staff and could be anyone, including an office administrator, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or a medical assistant. They are instrumental in helping patients receive the treatment they need. Biologic coordinators can work in various healthcare roles and partner with prescribing healthcare providers, specialty pharmacies, insurance companies, and manufacturers to help their patients navigate the steps to get their prescribed biologic medication. Some biologic coordinators may not even know they are biologic coordinators!

Supporting Patients at Every Step of the Treatment Journey

While biologic therapy can be an important treatment option for patients, obtaining access to these treatments can be challenging and patients often need help navigating the process. Biologic coordinators play a multifaceted role in supporting a patient, from the moment a doctor writes a prescription, until the medicine reaches the patient, and beyond. Biologic coordinators often assist in the navigation of information requested by insurance companies, including helping to fill out and submit preauthorization forms to insurance companies on behalf of patients. Additionally, they help patients work through any coverage challenges or denials of prescribed medication, filing appeals to insurance companies on the patient’s behalf. They also work closely with the patient’s healthcare provider to get the most up-to-date information about their care, including medical records and medical history.

Support Beyond Treatment

Biologic coordinators care deeply about their patients beyond treatment. Their key role as a connection point between the patient and others allows them to know their patients on a personal level and advocate for them. Often, this deeper understanding can uncover worries about personal finances, employment, or relationships. This bond is unlike any other, and truly shows the role biologic coordinators play in improving the lives of their patients, not by a sense of obligation, but because they truly love to make a difference in people’s lives.

Advancing Care for Patients Takes a Team

Janssen established the annual National Biologic Coordinators Day last year as part of a commitment to relentlessly advance care for those with immune-mediated diseases, recognizing this can’t be done alone. The community at large continues to be inspired by the connectivity and compassion of these unsung heroes and for the individuals they work tirelessly to support. Biologic coordinators often work behind the scenes and have a deep impact on a patient’s life beyond treatment, which is why Janssen is shining a light on the crucial role they play in the healthcare journey and encourages other organizations and individuals to join in celebrating these heroes.

2022-10-27T09:01:00

(BPT) – At its core, intuitive eating is a philosophy that encourages you to get in touch with your body and become aware of your hunger cues, according to Healthline. This approach to eating doesn’t give you a laundry list of foods that you should or should not eat. If you have avoided eating certain foods such as beans, due to diets like paleo and keto, you can take this approach as an opportunity to integrate them into your meals. Intuitive eating promotes a healthy attitude toward food without the restrictions of traditional diets.

Beans are an easy-to-use, inexpensive plant-based protein. For example, one serving of S&W Beans provides 6-7 grams of protein, which is about the same amount found in one egg or 1 ounce of meat or fish. Beans are also packed with fiber and supply several important vitamins and minerals like folate, thiamine, potassium, magnesium and iron.

If you want to eat more intuitively, or simply change up a boring meal, check out these seven recipes featuring S&W Beans.

1. Bean and Avocado Toasts

Made with S&W Jacob’s Cattle Beans, this delicious dish is perfect for a light breakfast or a fun appetizer for gatherings. These bite-sized toasted treats take just 15 minutes, combining beans, avocado and tomatoes for a fresh and filling meal.

2. Butternut Squash Cannellini Soup

As the weather starts to cool, try cooking this butternut squash and cannellini bean soup for a comforting and tasty meal. S&W Cannellini Beans are perfect for soups because of their tender and creamy texture. Paired with the nutty and slightly sweet butternut squash and topped with bacon, this soup is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

3. Yellow Eye Bean Cobb Style Salad

Featuring “tiger-eye” S&W Yellow Eye Beans, this salad is perfect as a side or as its own meal. Packed with eggs, bacon and beans, you’ll get plenty of protein from this dish. Also, the leafy romaine or baby lettuce, cherries and yellow eye beans have plenty of fiber to keep you feeling full longer.

4. Snickerdoodle Hummus

Hummus doesn’t have to be a savory side. Pureeing S&W Garbanzos with almond butter, cinnamon applesauce, sugar, cinnamon and vanilla yields a sweet and spiced dip for apple slices and cookies. Try making this yummy snack to indulge in after some fun fall activities.

5. Chicken Rice Bowls

Chicken Rice Bowls are an easy, delicious, customizable meal for lunch or dinner. While you’re cooking the rice and warming up the rotisserie chicken and S&W Pinquito Beans, chop tomatoes, avocado and cilantro. For additional toppings, add green onion, sour cream, salsa or shredded cheese. Once you have all the toppings laid out, everyone can make their own chicken rice bowl combination.

6. Mashed Garbanzo Beans

Tired of mashed potatoes? The next time you make salmon, pork, chicken or turkey, whip up some mashed S&W Garbanzos for a flavorful side dish. Garlic, cumin, paprika and red pepper flakes add a subtle kick to tantalize your taste buds. If you want to switch it up, you can substitute garbanzo beans with white beans.

7. Black Bean Spinach Pizza

You probably haven’t considered putting beans on a pizza, but it’s an easy and interesting way to add protein to a vegetarian pizza. By mixing mashed S&W Black Beans with onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salsa and hot sauce, you’ll have created a spicy sauce for your pizza. Topped with spinach, cilantro and cheese, this tasty combo will have you adding beans to all your homemade pizzas.

Using these seven recipes, you’ll find out just how delicious and versatile beans can be. To learn more about the different types of beans you can add to your next dish, visit Swbeans.com or the S&W Beans Amazon store.

2022-10-27T08:53:00

(BPT) – When someone has a genetic disease, the disease is lifelong. Many rare diseases are caused by a single gene not functioning correctly, and approximately 90% do not have any available treatment. Of those that do, most treatments are chronically administered, meaning a person must take the medicine on a set schedule for the remainder of their life, and such treatments are often only able to treat some of the symptoms.

However, in the past few decades, research into gene therapies has increased, and genetic medicines now have the potential to address, or correct, the non-working gene with a single administration.

Gene therapy and MPS II (Hunter syndrome)

Gene therapy is designed to deliver a functional copy of a gene into a person’s cells where there is a missing or non-working gene that is causing a disease. The goal of gene therapy is for the functional copy of the gene to begin working as it should, which is to act as an “instruction manual” for the cell to create a specific protein.

A unique characteristic of gene therapy is that it is designed to be given to a patient just one time and to have long-term effects. There are FDA-approved gene therapies that are being used to treat patients with rare genetic disorders and many more that are currently being developed and tested in human clinical trials. One disease that could potentially be addressed with a gene therapy approach is mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II), also known as Hunter syndrome, a lysosomal storage disorder that occurs in 1 in 100,000 to 1 in 170,000 males.

In Hunter syndrome, the IDS gene is missing or non-functional, and the body is unable to produce the protein needed to break down large sugar molecules or cellular waste, called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). The accumulation of GAGs in patients with Hunter syndrome causes multiple symptoms, such as joint stiffness, carpal tunnel syndrome, sleep apnea and loss of hearing. Severe Hunter syndrome results in progressive debilitation and decline in intellectual function. Currently, there are no available treatments targeting the genetic cause of Hunter syndrome.

juMPStart: A clinical trial for adults with Hunter syndrome

A clinical trial called juMPStart is evaluating an investigational gene therapy for adults with Hunter syndrome. It is designed to be given to the patient through a single intravenous (I.V.) administration, with follow-up appointments with a physician to monitor the patient’s health.

The juMPStart trial is enrolling adults with Hunter syndrome at clinical sites throughout the U.S. and Canada. Participation in this clinical trial may include enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) discontinuation. Candidates for juMPStart include Hunter syndrome patients who:

• Are male between the ages of 18-45 years
• Have a confirmed diagnosis of Hunter syndrome
• Are currently receiving ERT as treatment for Hunter syndrome

There are additional requirements to participate, which a doctor can explain. Does this sound like something you or someone you know would be interested in? If so, talk to your doctor, take this short questionnaire to see if you are a candidate for juMPStart or consider sharing the information.

2022-10-27T08:53:00

(BPT) – When someone has a genetic disease, it is lifelong and can have a daily impact on the person’s and their loved ones’ lives. Some rare diseases are genetic metabolic disorders, which require intense dietary management that adds significant daily burden and does not get easier with age.

However, in the past few decades, research into gene editing has increased, and this type of genetic medicine has the potential to permanently correct a person’s DNA with a single administration, which could possibly eliminate the day-to-day toll of a genetic disease.

Gene editing and phenylketonuria (PKU)

Gene editing is a potential therapy for genetic diseases, which occur when a person’s own gene has a variant that disrupts the normal function of the enzyme made from this gene. Gene editing is a technique in which a working copy of a gene is integrated into a person’s DNA in an effort to override the effect of the disease-causing gene, with the goal of preventing or potentially curing certain genetic diseases.

A unique characteristic of gene editing is that it is designed to be given to a patient just one time but to have long-term effects. One disease that could potentially be addressed with a gene editing approach is PKU, a rare, genetic metabolic disorder that affects nearly 16,500 people in the U.S. Each year ~300 newborns are diagnosed with this rare disease.

PKU is caused by variants in the PAH gene and results in a non-functioning phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for the metabolism of phenylalanine, or Phe, an amino acid that a person gets exclusively from diet. If left untreated, toxic levels of Phe can accumulate in the blood. Currently, there are no treatment options that target the underlying genetic cause of PKU, and the vast majority of patients are required to follow a life-long, difficult diet that is incredibly low in protein and includes medical foods.

pheEDIT: A clinical trial for adults with PKU

A clinical trial called pheEDIT is evaluating an investigational gene editing therapy for adults with PKU. It is designed to be given to the patient through a single intravenous (I.V.) administration with follow-up appointments with a physician to monitor the patient’s health.

The pheEDIT trial is enrolling adults with PKU at clinical sites throughout the U.S. Candidates for pheEDIT include PKU patients who:

• Have uncontrolled classical PKU disease due to PAH deficiency
• Are aged 18 to 55 years old
• Are willing and able to maintain a stable Phe-restricted diet
• Are willing to commit to required study visits and tests for the duration of the trial

There are additional requirements to participate, which a doctor can explain. Does this sound like something you or someone you know would be interested in? If so, talk to your doctor, take this short questionnaire to see if you are a candidate for pheEDIT or consider sharing the information.

2022-10-20T09:29:00

(BPT) – It’s finally fall — a favorite season for so many. The leaves are changing color, the pumpkins are on the front steps, and the weather is cooling down. Unfortunately, that also means cold and flu season is here — and experts are predicting it to be a rough one.

While we tend to be more aware of our immune system during the fall and winter months when it’s put to the test, taking preventive measures to ensure your immune system is resilient all year round is just as, if not more, important. Making conscious choices around foods and healthy daily habits that support overall well-being is the best way to make immune health an everyday priority.

With studies showing a majority of consumers (65%) are more conscious of their immunity this year than previous years, Registered Dietitian Kelly Springer is sharing simple but effective strategies to implement that help build your body’s defenses as we enter cold and flu season:

Incorporate Manuka Honey Into Your Daily Routine

Manuka honey is as delicious as it is powerful. Different from traditional honey, it is a nourishing, multitasking superfood chock full of nutritional elements that the human body needs — including trace amounts of enzymes, amino acids, B Vitamins, C Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. These are beneficial to the immune system, empower everyday wellness, aid in better digestion and provide a natural source for a daily energy boost. However, not all Manuka honey is created equal. This fall, when you start building your arsenal of immune-boosting, therapeutic remedies, consider adding a raw and authentic Manuka honey, like Wedderspoon, to that list. Wedderspoon’s Manuka Honey is fully traceable from hive to home and is the most pure and powerful form I’ve found — free of any antibiotics, glyphosates and pesticides.

I keep it on hand year-round since it’s great for so many different things, but I always stock up this time of year and begin incorporating it into my and my family’s daily routine early to help strengthen the body’s natural defenses and stave off sniffles or scratchy throats before they can start. You can add it to a warm bowl of oatmeal in the morning or cup of tea at night, use it to make your own throat-soothing cough syrup and so much more. I also never leave the house without Wedderspoon’s Manuka Honey Immunity Lozenges. They’re delicious, soothe your throat and provide a quick, on-the-go wellness boost of Vitamin C, Zinc and Epicor^® — a postbiotic that supports a healthy gut microbiome and is proven to boost your immunity in two hours.

Improve Immune Function Through Exercise and Vitamin D

I can’t think of a better way to soak up the last few rays of the sunshine season than getting outside for a quick and easy workout. Recent studies indicate that moderate intensity exercise can actually cut down on the number of colds a person gets because it increases your white blood cells, which help fight infection. Beyond that, regular exercise and Vitamin D helps moderate inflammation in the body and reduces stress, which helps keep your body’s defenses in good shape. It doesn’t have to be an intense workout — try getting outside for a 20- to 30-minute walk with a friend, biking a few times a week or doing a simple workout in your backyard.

Rethink What’s on Your Plate

My fall and winter menus always include a few key ingredients known for their immune-bolstering properties — Greek yogurt, oranges, wild salmon, herbal echinacea and dark chocolate. Greek yogurt contains probiotics that are known to fight illnesses, and oranges are always a fantastic pick-me-up as they are packed full of vitamin C. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation, making it one of the best proteins to eat when you’re sick. Echinacea and unsweetened dark chocolate have long been used to shorten the duration of colds to help you bounce back quicker. I love finding unique ways to incorporate these ingredients into dishes for my family — they all add delicious flavor, nutrients and vitamins that the body needs this time of year.

Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Chronic stress can take its toll on the body, including releasing cortisol, which suppresses the immune system and can leave you much more susceptible to catching a cold or the flu. Fall is the perfect time to reset, relax and dedicate some time to yourself. Try a meditation app to aid in sleep and relaxation. By using guided meditation solutions to reach deep stages of mindfulness, you can release stress and improve awareness and decision making.

Take a Holistic Approach to Healing

Holistic treatments like red light therapy and lymphatic drainage massages are great ways to give your body a jump start along the healing process, should you come down with a cold or the flu. Red light therapy energizes the entire body from the cellular level, improves blood flow to bring necessary nutrients to the cells and stimulates the lymphatic system, which is one of the key components of a strong immune system. Similarly, lymphatic drainage massages help improve circulation of the lymphatic system by filtering out the toxins in your body to alleviate any swelling or blockages, particularly in the face and neck, that may result from being sick. You can find lots of great DIY tutorials for proper techniques to help yourself or a loved one recover from what’s ailing you with a fun at-home spa day.

During the cold weather season, it can feel like colds, flus and other illnesses are constantly making the rounds within families, classrooms and workplaces. It’s never too early to start building your body’s natural defenses to maintain peak health. Incorporating these simple but effective strategies this cold and flu season will help keep you feeling your best all season long.