Category: Brandpoint Health

2021-12-22T17:17:00

(BPT) – It’s New Year’s resolution season, and many people’s goals involve improving their health — exercising more, eating better and losing weight. While it can be hard to stick to resolutions, a staple item in your kitchen can give you a leg up — potatoes.

Potatoes are a nutrient-dense vegetable. Per 5.3-ounce serving, they have more potassium than a banana and more vitamin C than a tomato. Potatoes are also packed with energy and are affordable, delivering more nutrients per penny than most other vegetables.

But how can potatoes help achieve your resolutions? Let’s start with eating better. Potatoes can play a key role in many of the most popular approaches to eating well:

• Plant-Based Diets: Plant-based diets are a growing trend, but getting enough high-quality protein is important. Potatoes provide 3 grams of plant-based protein, which is more than other commonly consumed vegetables except dried beans. Try Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Kale.
• Whole30: According to Whole30, “Potatoes of all varieties are real, nutrient-dense foods,” and the guidelines encourage mashed, baked or roasted potatoes. Try Frittata with Potato Crust.
• WW (formerly Weight Watchers): For people on this popular plan, potatoes are a ZeroPoint food. Potatoes are given this distinction because they’re “filling and nutritious.” Try 12 Surprising Ways to Cook with Potatoes from WW.
• Mediterranean Diet, DASH Diet and Flexitarian Diet: U.S. News & World Report has ranked these as best overall diets as chosen by a panel of health experts, and potatoes are a staple in all three. Try Manhattan Paella.
• Gluten-Free Diets: Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, and they can help provide several of the nutrients often inadequately consumed by people following gluten-free diets, such as fiber, thiamin, folate, magnesium, calcium and iron. Try Gluten-Free Spiralized Hash Brown Casserole.

Along with being nutrient-dense, some research suggests that potatoes are one of the most filling foods you can eat. Studies indicate that potatoes may stave off hunger better than common sides like pasta, rice and bread.

Beyond eating well, working out more is a resolution for many people, and carbohydrates provide important fuel for muscles during exercise. However, not all carbs are created equal. A medium potato has 26 grams of quality carbs, which is important for optimal physical and mental performance. Potatoes also deliver the energy, potassium and vitamin C needed to fuel your workout. In particular, the potassium in potatoes is perfect for aiding muscle, cardiovascular and nervous system function during long endurance events.

On a final note, you may believe that sweet potatoes are healthier than regular potatoes, but they’re more alike than you think. They provide similar amounts of key nutrients like protein, potassium and vitamin B6, all of which contribute to a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet. They’re also both included on the FDA’s Top 20 Raw Vegetable list, and they’re similar in calories and carbohydrates.

So, as 2022 gets underway, pass the potatoes, and know you’re helping achieve your health and fitness goals for the New Year. And be sure to check out www.potatogoodness.com for more information and inspiration!

2021-12-22T17:14:00

(BPT) – At some point during parenthood, everyone struggles with feeding their children the right foods. Is it green enough? Does it have the right vitamins? Will it help support their immune system?

Picking the right foods alone is a hard job, but what do you do when your kids won’t even touch the healthy stuff on their plates? Here are six tips from Nutrilite senior research scientist, Holiday Zanetti, who is a mom with a Ph.D. in nutrition.

1) Try new things

Don’t be afraid to try new things and expose your kids to the vast world of nutritious foods. Who knows what your kids might like? Maybe you grew up hating Brussels sprouts and green beans, but there is a chance your little ones might love them.

Holiday said expanding their exposure to diverse foods will only help them find more stuff they like. A good way to introduce new foods is by putting food they have not tried next to foods that are tried and true. Placing the new offering alongside their favorite meal may make them feel more comfortable trying something for the first time.

2) Lead by example

Monkey see, monkey do. Kids learn so much from their parents, including talking, walking, reading, writing and more. Along with all the other traits and habits kids pick up from family members, Holiday said children also mimic loved ones’ eating habits.

You don’t have to drop your fun and easy family meals like pizza Fridays or donuts for breakfast on Sundays. Just make sure you balance those out on other days with more vegetables and fruits so that your children can get used to nutritious food.

3) Play with your food

Holiday urges parents to bring imagination into eating to avoid making it boring. She said society has outgrown the “Don’t play with your food” mindset and evolved into an era where using your other senses while you eat is more fun and accepted.

Pretend your heads of broccoli are small trees. Arrange your food into faces. Use your hands to mix and have a food eating contest with your children. These are all fun ways you can get your kids excited about eating healthier foods.

4) Disguise foods they don’t like

By far the easiest thing you can do as a parent, Holiday said, is sneaking something your child hasn’t tried into something they love. There is a good chance that in the heat of the moment, your kids won’t even know what they are eating.

For example, cauliflower is rich in nutrients and has a taste that can easily be incorporated into your meals. Examples of fun meals with cauliflower are garlic cauliflower mash (tastes like mashed potatoes) or cauliflower “fried rice.”

5) Cook with your kids

Lastly, introduce your kids to the fun of cooking. They might turn out to be a huge help in the kitchen. Letting them mix the salad, pour the oil or peel the corn are all fun ways to let your kids get hands on with their food.

Incorporating your kids into the process of making their meal will help them connect with their food and make them more inclined to eat it. Plus, cooking skills will benefit them throughout life.

6) Nutritional supplements

If you are worried about your kids not getting the right vitamins and minerals, consider incorporating supplements specifically formulated for children into their daily routine.

Nutrilite supplements offer a range of products for kids that make it fun for them to get their daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals, including gummies, fast-melt powders and jelly splats. Kids aren’t always going to be easy to feed, so these supplements make it easy for parents to fill any gaps in their child’s daily nutrition.

Learn more

Between supplements and a few sneaky veggie tricks, rest assured your picky eater will be getting all the good nutrition they need. For more tips on healthy living, visit www.amwayconnections.com.

2021-12-21T17:07:35

(BPT) – As your baby becomes a toddler, it can be challenging to make sure they’re getting the recommended amounts of nutrients for healthy growth and development — like vitamin D, DHA and iron. Toddlers are notoriously picky, and some use mealtime as an opportunity to assert their independence, which makes meals more challenging.

Concerns about nutrition for young children

An analysis of nutrient intake of children 1-6 years old using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) concluded that most children did not consume enough of several important nutrients:

• 87% had inadequate vitamin D, which helps children build strong bones.
• Over 7% may be deficient in iron, which supports brain development and helps carry oxygen through the body.
• Intake of DHA was universally low. (This fatty acid is important for brain development.)
• Very few consumed adequate amounts of fiber, while less than 50% consumed adequate amounts of choline and potassium.
• Fiber deficiency and inadequate calcium were seen in a significant percentage.

“All these nutrients are important to help growing toddlers develop physically and cognitively,” said Katina Langley, a registered dietitian/nutritionist and medical science liaison for Reckitt. “And it gets harder to ensure children get adequate nutrition as they become more particular about what they eat.”

Tips for ensuring toddlers eat a nutritious diet

Langley recommends persistence, plus trying several approaches, from modeling healthy behavior to offering nutritious — but limited — choices. “Toddlers can be overwhelmed by too many choices,” said Langley. “Provide a few healthy options to give them a sense of control.”

Try these tactics to help keep your toddlers developing as they should.

1. Lead by example

Toddlers watch what you do more than they listen to what you say. Fill your own plate with the same healthy foods you want them to eat, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, dairy, proteins and whole grains.

2. Let kids help

From growing food in your garden to preparing food together, inspire curiosity about where food comes from and how it’s prepared. Take kids to a farmers market or pick-your-own farm. Let kids help wash fresh fruits and veggies, then measure or mix ingredients. Limit tasks to safe and easy things to do — adding to what they can handle as they get older. They’ll be more likely to try food they helped make.

3. Keep portions small

Introduce small amounts of new items alongside familiar foods. Choose or cut food to the appropriate size for toddlers to avoid choking hazards. Don’t stress if they won’t eat new food right away, but keep trying. Over time they may become curious about it.

Offer easy-to-chew-and-swallow finger foods:

• Eggs contain high-quality protein, choline and vitamin D.
• Cut berries can provide fiber, potassium and antioxidants, like vitamin C, that can help the body absorb iron.
• Cooked butternut squash, sweet potatoes, carrots and chopped bananas are good sources of potassium.
• Cut or mashed black beans and garbanzo beans are good iron sources.

Cut foods into bite-sized portions or gently bake, sauté or steam them to make them easy to eat and more appealing.

4. Use a supplement

For toddlers with low variety in their diets or who may be particularly picky, try adding a toddler nutritional drink to help fill any nutrient gaps. This can help ensure they’re getting important vitamins and minerals to help support their growth and brain development. For example, Enfagrow Premium Toddler Nutritional Drink is made with real milk and contains nutrients like vitamin D, DHA and iron. Serve as a drink on the go, or use the powder in baking or a smoothie.

5. Get creative

Try blending nutrient-dense, vitamin-rich foods into items they’re already eating: Add spinach or cauliflower to pasta sauce, blend frozen berries into yogurt or add egg whites or milk to oatmeal.

It’s normal for toddlers to have narrow food preferences, and some days they may be more picky than others. Think of a child’s nutritional intake over a week — rather than per day — to decrease the stress of needing them to eat every food, every day.

Learn more about toddler nutrition and Enfagrow recipes at www.Enfamil.com.

2021-12-21T13:01:00

(BPT) – Although gastric (stomach) cancer might be lesser known than other cancers, its impact should not be understated.[1] The disease, which typically occurs when cancer cells form in the lining of the stomach,[2] most commonly impacts men over the age of 50 and is estimated to affect more than 26,000 Americans in 2021 alone.[3] Globally, gastric cancer remains the fifth most common cancer with over one million cases of gastric cancer diagnosed each year around the world.[4]

Because gastric cancer often develops slowly and lacks symptoms in early stages, it is commonly diagnosed after it has metastasized (or spread to other parts of the body), resulting in a poor prognosis.[5] According to the American Cancer Society, only approximately 6% of patients with advanced-stage gastric cancer are alive five years after diagnosis.[6]

As with other forms of cancer, knowledge about gastric cancer is power. Here are three things to know about the disease:

1. Risk Factors Can Range

To understand the impact of gastric cancer, it’s important to first know the risk factors. Risk factors associated with the disease include being overweight or obese, having a diet high in preserved or processed foods, alcohol and tobacco use, and certain bacterial infections.[7] Additionally, a person’s gender, age, ethnicity, family history and genetics can play a role in raising his or her chances of developing gastric cancer.[2]

Being able to recognize the relatively wide range of gastric cancer risk factors may help inform lifestyle changes that can potentially prevent gastric cancer from forming and empower people to have proactive discussions with their care teams to increase the chances that the disease can be detected early.

2. Biomarkers Can Have Bearing on the Management of Gastric Cancer

It’s important to understand the unique characteristics of gastric cancer that may impact its growth and spread, including the presence of biomarkers. Biomarkers are substances made by a tumor or by the body in response to the presence of cancer.[8] Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a protein found on the surface of cells, is one such gastric cancer biomarker.[9] While many types of cells have HER2 receptors, having more receptors than normal can encourage the growth and spread of cancer.[10] It is estimated that about one in five cases of gastric cancer is HER2-positive, which is correlated with more aggressive disease.[11]

There are tests available that can help determine the presence of biomarkers like HER2 in gastric cancer. These tests are ordered by a physician and can help inform treatment plans for each individual patient’s specific cancer type.[12]

3. Options Exist

Treatment options for gastric cancer have historically included surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.[13] But in recent years, the prognosis has improved for some with biomarker-driven disease, including HER2-positive metastatic gastric cancer, thanks to ongoing clinical research that has brought about medicines that are specifically targeted to such biomarkers.[14]

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with gastric cancer, be sure to talk to your doctor about the options that may be best for you.

While gastric cancer remains devastating for many patients and their loved ones, knowledge may make a difference.

2021-12-20T10:01:00

(BPT) – –

2021-12-20T16:01:00

(BPT) – Sanofi developed and sponsored this article and Roldan was compensated for his time.

As an avid runner, Roldan enjoyed an active lifestyle. However, during a routine physical one decade ago, his physician observed an abnormal elevated protein in one of his blood labs and ordered additional tests from a local oncologist. The resulting diagnosis: multiple myeloma.

Roldan’s first reaction was shock and disbelief, as just one week earlier, he completed a local race. “With my background in clinical pharmacy, I had a baseline understanding of multiple myeloma, but I wasn’t very familiar with the disease when I was first diagnosed,” Roldan recalled.

Roldan is one of more than 34,000 Americans that are diagnosed with multiple myeloma each year.¹ Multiple myeloma is the second most common form of blood cancer, affecting more than 149,000 patients in the United States.² Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells, which are types of white blood cells found in the bone marrow. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells grow uncontrollably and crowd out the normal cells in the bone marrow.¹

Symptoms of multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma is most frequently diagnosed in people aged 65-74.¹ Like in Roldan’s case, not all patients experience symptoms of multiple myeloma at initial diagnosis. However, some patients may experience persistent or recurrent bone pain, persistent fatigue, recurrent unexplained infections, nervous system disorders, and shortness of breath, among other symptoms.³

Relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma

Since multiple myeloma does not have a cure, most patients will eventually relapse. Relapsed (or recurrent) multiple myeloma is the term for when the cancer returns after treatment or a period of remission.⁴ Refractory multiple myeloma refers to when the cancer does not respond to a specific therapy. In some patients, the cancer may respond to an initial treatment, but not to the same treatment following a relapse.⁵

Roldan’s experience

Since the day of his diagnosis, Roldan’s wife has been his biggest source of support. They lean on each other and take on each challenge one day at a time, and her optimism helps him maintain a positive outlook.

Initially, Roldan worried about how living with multiple myeloma would affect his life. Due to the challenges he has experienced while managing his symptoms, he is no longer as active as he used to be. Fortunately, he has been able to transition to a position at his work with greater flexibility, which allows Roldan more time to attend doctor’s appointments and receive treatments.

Roldan has tried many treatments, and while some would be effective for a while, his myeloma levels would eventually go back up. Understanding the evolving landscape in the treatment of multiple myeloma, Roldan kept an open line of communication with his doctors, asking questions and discussing available options.

After discussing treatment options, his doctor recently prescribed Sarclisa^® (isatuximab-irfc), which he receives via infusion every other week. Since beginning treatment with Sarclisa, his multiple myeloma has responded to the treatment.

Sarclisa works together with your immune system to help destroy myeloma cells. The recommended dose of Sarclisa is 10 mg/kg as an intravenous infusion every week for 4 weeks followed by every 2 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Sarclisa is a prescription medicine used in combination with:

• The medicines pomalidomide and dexamethasone, to treat adults who have received at least 2 prior therapies including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor to treat multiple myeloma.
• The medicines carfilzomib and dexamethasone, to treat adults with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have received 1 to 3 prior lines of therapy.

Once prescribed, your doctor and other members of your healthcare team will explain how you will receive Sarclisa along with these other medicines.

Serious side effects of Sarclisa include infusion reactions, decreased white blood cell counts, risk of new cancers, change in blood tests, and heart failure.

The most frequent adverse reactions for Sarclisa in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone are lung infection (pneumonia), decreased red blood cell counts (anemia), upper respiratory tract infection, decreased platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), and diarrhea.

The most frequent adverse reactions for Sarclisa in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone are upper respiratory tract infection, infusion reactions, fatigue, hypertension, diarrhea, pneumonia, dyspnea, bronchitis, and cough.

These are not all the possible side effects of Sarclisa. Please see additional Important Safety Information in this article. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Advice for others living with multiple myeloma

What Roldan would like to share with others is that although there’s no cure for multiple myeloma, there are treatments that can help stop the progression of the disease.

For the past ten years, Roldan has traveled two hours to see his myeloma specialist. “It’s important to have open communication with your doctor, and to seek out a multiple myeloma specialist if one is available. It’s also important to make sure you’re asking the right questions to work together to find a treatment that’s best for you,” said Roldan.

Every patient’s experience is unique and individual results may vary. Remember, your doctor is your best source of information and be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR SARCLISA

Do not receive SARCLISA if you have a history of a severe allergic reaction to isatuximab-irfc or any of the ingredients in SARCLISA (see the list of ingredients in the full Prescribing Information).

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

• Have heart problems, if your healthcare provider prescribes SARCLISA in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone for you.
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. SARCLISA may harm your unborn baby. You should not receive SARCLISA during pregnancy.

• Females who are able to become pregnant should use an effective method of birth control during treatment and for 5 months after your last dose of SARCLISA. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control methods that you can use during this time.
  Tell your healthcare provider right away if you think you are pregnant or become pregnant during treatment with SARCLISA.
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if SARCLISA passes into your breast milk. You should not breastfeed during treatment with SARCLISA.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you have ever taken a medicine for your heart.

How will I receive SARCLISA?

• SARCLISA will be given to you by your healthcare provider by intravenous (IV) infusion into your vein.
• SARCLISA is given in treatment cycles of 28 days (4 weeks), together with either the medicines pomalidomide and dexamethasone, or carfilzomib and dexamethasone.

• In cycle 1, SARCLISA is usually given weekly.
• Starting in cycle 2, SARCLISA is usually given every 2 weeks.
• If you miss any appointments, call your healthcare provider as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment.
• Your healthcare provider will give you medicines before each dose of SARCLISA to help reduce the risk of infusion reactions (make them less frequent and severe).

What are the possible side effects of SARCLISA?

SARCLISA may cause serious side effects, including:

• Infusion reactions. Infusion reactions are common with SARCLISA and can sometimes be severe or life threatening.

• Your healthcare provider will prescribe medicines before each infusion of SARCLISA to help decrease your risk for infusion reactions or to help make any infusion reaction less severe. You will be monitored for infusion reactions during each dose of SARCLISA.
• Your healthcare provider may slow down or stop your infusion, or completely stop treatment with SARCLISA if you have an infusion reaction.

Get medical help right away if you develop any of the following symptoms of infusion reaction during or after an infusion of SARCLISA:

— shortness of breath, wheezing, or trouble breathing
— swelling of the face, mouth, throat, or tongue
— throat tightness
— palpitations
— dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
— headache
— cough
— rash or itching
— nausea
— runny or stuffy nose
— chills

• Decreased white blood cell counts. Decreased white blood cell counts are common with SARCLISA and certain white blood cells can be severely decreased. You may have an increased risk of getting certain infections, such as upper and lower respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections.

  Your healthcare provider will check your blood cell counts during treatment with SARCLISA. Your healthcare provider may prescribe an antibiotic or antiviral medicine to help prevent infection, or a medicine to help increase your white blood cell counts during treatment with SARCLISA.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop any fever or symptoms of infection during treatment with SARCLISA.

• Risk of new cancers. New cancers have happened in people during treatment with SARCLISA. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for new cancers during treatment with SARCLISA.
• Change in blood tests. SARCLISA can affect the results of blood tests to match your blood type. Your healthcare provider will do blood tests to match your blood type before you start treatment with SARCLISA. Tell all of your healthcare providers that you are being treated with SARCLISA before receiving blood transfusions.
• Heart failure. Heart failure can happen during treatment with SARCLISA in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop any of the following symptoms:

– trouble breathing – cough – swelling of your ankles, feet, or legs

The most common side effects of SARCLISA in combination with pomalidomide and dexamethasone include:

• lung infection (pneumonia)
• decreased red blood cell counts (anemia)
• upper respiratory tract infection
• decreased platelet counts (thrombocytopenia)
• diarrhea

The most common side effects of SARCLISA in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone include:

• upper respiratory tract infection
• tiredness and weakness
• high blood pressure
• diarrhea
• lung infection (pneumonia)
• trouble breathing
• trouble sleeping
• bronchitis
• cough
• back pain
• decreased red blood cells (anemia)
• decreased platelet counts (thrombocytopenia)

These are not all the possible side effects of SARCLISA. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information

To learn more about Sarclisa, visit www.MyMyelomaOptions.com.

[1] National Cancer Institute. Cancer Stat Facts. Myeloma. https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/mulmy.html. Accessed September 2021.

[2] International Myeloma Foundation. What is Multiple Myeloma? Available at: https://www.myeloma.org/what-is-multiple-myeloma. Accessed September 2021.

[3] American Cancer Society. Signs and Symptoms of Multiple Myeloma. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/multiplemyeloma/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-symptoms.html. Accessed September 2021.

[4] International Myeloma Foundation. Treatments for Subsequent Relapse. https://www.myeloma.org/treatments-subsequent-relapse. Accessed September 2021

[5] Cancer.Net. Multiple Myeloma – Types of Treatment. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/multiple-myeloma/types-treatment. Accessed September 2021.

2021-12-20T05:01:00

(BPT) – Many Americans are unaware of the risk of colorectal cancer based on new data from The Harris Poll. The rising incidences of colorectal cancer in younger adults is a concerning trend that has contributed to the recommendation that colorectal cancer screening begin at age 45, instead of 50, for average risk Americans. Read on to find out why screening is so important.

2021-12-18T02:01:00

(BPT) – Many people know Kundalini Yoga as a celebrity-friendly practice, scientifically proven to promote health, fitness and relaxation. But there is much more to Kundalini Yoga than meditation and breath work.

Innate to the practice of Kundalini Yoga is a dedication to selfless service called “seva.” Seva is simply defined as acts of compassion and care for others. These can be random acts or organized ones, small acts or large. From a smile to a stranger, to opening a soup kitchen.

Members of 3HO, a global community dedicated to sharing the teachings of Kundalini Yoga, recently announced that in 2021 its practitioners participated in 25 dedicated programs spanning more than 12 countries.

Seva projects ranged from leading meditation workshops at Fundación Alcorcón University Hospital in Spain; to teaching yoga to prisoners at the La Rioja Women’s Prison in Argentina, to distributing meals to homebound elderly in Chile, to offering creative writing workshops to at-risk youth in Washington, D.C.

In Kundalini Yoga, service is as important as any yoga position.

But practitioners also understand that they must take care of themselves in order to have the spiritual health to serve their communities.

Even these devotees of service understand the importance of self-care.

We can all learn a lesson from that.

If you find yourself overwhelmed this holiday season, be kind to yourself so that you can be kind to others.

Meditation is an easy and effective place to start. 3HO has collected dozens of meditations, to suit almost every situation. Here’s an example.

Meditation to help keep a positive mind

Sit upright, in a comfortable position. Curl your ring finger and little finger into your palms. Bend your thumbs over the top of them to hold them into place. Make the first two fingers straight and stiff. Move your hands to shoulder level with the palms facing forward and the first two fingers pointing up. Your elbows will be tucked at your sides. Don’t worry. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Press your shoulders and elbows back firmly but comfortably. Your palms should face forward.

Close your eyes. Let your eyes roll up gently and concentrate on the top of your nose between your eyebrows.

Create a steady, slow, deep, and complete breath.

Silently repeat the following mantra in your head: Saa taa naa maa

Try to practice this for three minutes and increase to 11 minutes as you get the hang of it.

When you are finished, inhale and exhale deeply three times. Relax your hands into your lap.

Sit for a while and enjoy. You’re okay.

To learn more about 3HO, Kundalini Yoga and Meditation, and the work Kundalini Yoga teachers do around the world, visit 3HO.org and 3HO.org/serve.

2021-12-17T12:31:00

(BPT) – The difficulty with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) goes well beyond how to pronounce it. The chronic, painful and progressive inflammatory skin condition can affect every aspect of a person’s life. What’s worse, many suffer the physical, social, and emotional burdens for an average of 7-10 years before receiving an accurate diagnosis and management plan. While awareness of HS has increased, it can still be difficult for HS patients to find answers and navigate disease management and appropriate treatment options.

HS may cause painful bumps, abscesses or nodules in private, sensitive areas of the body such as the groin or underarms. People may overlook symptoms because they can appear like ingrown hairs or acne, or don’t even bring it up with their doctor because they are embarrassed – which can also add to the timing of reaching an accurate diagnosis.

With more than three decades of experience, Dr. Scott Drew of Dermatology Associates of Mid-Ohio has witnessed firsthand the condition’s potentially devastating effects on his patients. People often suppress their whole HS experience from their doctors, so Dr. Drew grasps the importance of grounding his patient relationships in trust.

“I want my patients to feel comfortable opening up to me about the impact HS has had on their lives so we can work together to change the course of several years of misinformation they may have read or received from previous providers,” Dr. Drew says. “I can help them better understand their condition and let them know there are treatment options – with the appropriate management, HS may not need to define their lives.”

To break through misinformation, Dr. Drew is setting the record straight on three common misconceptions.

Misconception 1. HS is directly caused by poor hygiene or being overweight

Common misconceptions, such as HS is a direct result of poor hygiene or being overweight, may lead to delays in diagnosis and appropriate management. HS is not a disorder of the sweat glands, and although secondary infections can occur, it is not caused by infections. While the exact cause of this systemic inflammatory skin condition is unknown, HS is thought to begin within the body. Medical professionals know genetics, environment, and the immune system can contribute to symptom development, but it’s important to remember that HS is not caused directly by patient behavior.

“HS may keep people from doing things like working, dating or even going to a healthcare provider because they may feel ashamed or they may have received incorrect information from doctors who didn’t understand the condition,” Dr. Drew notes. “For some patients, the nodules and abscesses may cause them to wake up at night, and some have to carry a change of clothes around at all times just in case of leakage. Stigma surrounding this condition exacerbates feelings of shame and embarrassment, which often contributes to a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Fortunately, people have become more willing to share their experiences to help decrease the stigma.”

Misconception 2. HS can only be treated with surgery

Most of Dr. Drew’s patients share similar stories that involve draining the abscesses and nodules, often at the emergency room.

“While surgery is an option for some, it may not be an option for all patients living with HS,” he explains. “If you see a surgeon, they may recommend surgery, but it may only be a temporary resolution. Since HS stems from an overactive immune system, inflammation throughout the body could be treated from the inside, not only on the surface of the skin. There are a number of treatment options dermatologists may prescribe to help manage signs and symptoms of HS, including antibiotics, corticosteroids, and biologics.”

Misconception 3. There are no FDA-approved treatments indicated for HS

Compared to when he first began treating HS, Dr. Drew notes the evolved understanding and impact of available treatments such as HUMIRA (adalimumab), which is a prescription medicine used to reduce signs and symptoms of moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa in people 12 years and older. “With available treatments such as HUMIRA, I want those suffering from HS to seek care early, find a dermatologist who understands HS, and speak up about their experience with HS.”

Serious infections have happened in people taking HUMIRA. These serious infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria that have spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. HUMIRA may increase the chance of getting lymphoma, including a rare kind, or other cancers. HUMIRA can cause serious side effects including hepatitis B infection in carriers of the virus, allergic reactions, nervous system problems, blood problems, heart failure, certain immune reactions including a lupus-like syndrome, liver problems, and new or worsening psoriasis.

Open and honest conversations with a dermatologist who specializes in treating HS may help people manage their disease. HUMIRA, the first and only FDA-approved treatment for moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa in people 12 years of age and older, works by targeting and blocking a specific source of inflammation that is thought to contribute to symptoms. Learn more about HUMIRA and partnering with your dermatologist at www.HUMIRA.com. Please see full accompanying prescribing information at https://www.rxabbvie.com/pdf/humira.pdf.

USE for HUMIRA^® (adalimumab)

HUMIRA is a prescription medicine used to reduce the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa in people 12 years and older.

Important Safety Information About HUMIRA^® (adalimumab)

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

You should discuss the potential benefits and risks of HUMIRA with your doctor. HUMIRA is a TNF blocker medicine that can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. You should not start taking HUMIRA if you have any kind of infection unless your doctor says it is okay.

• Serious infections have happened in people taking HUMIRA. These serious infections include tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria that have spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your doctor should test you for TB before starting HUMIRA, and check you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during treatment with HUMIRA, even if your TB test was negative. If your doctor feels you are at risk, you may be treated with medicine for TB.
• Cancer. For children and adults taking TNF blockers, including HUMIRA, the chance of getting lymphoma or other cancers may increase. There have been cases of unusual cancers in children, teenagers, and young adults using TNF blockers. Some people have developed a rare type of cancer called hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma. This type of cancer often results in death. If using TNF blockers including HUMIRA, your chance of getting two types of skin cancer (basal cell and squamous cell) may increase. These types are generally not life-threatening if treated; tell your doctor if you have a bump or open sore that doesn’t heal.

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE starting HUMIRA?

Tell your doctor about all of your health conditions, including if you:

• Have an infection, are being treated for infection, or have symptoms of an infection
• Get a lot of infections or infections that keep coming back
• Have diabetes
• Have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB, or were born in, lived in, or traveled where there is more risk for getting TB
• Live or have lived in an area (such as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys) where there is an increased risk for getting certain kinds of fungal infections, such as histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or blastomycosis. These infections may happen or become more severe if you use HUMIRA. Ask your doctor if you are unsure if you have lived in these areas
• Have or have had hepatitis B
• Are scheduled for major surgery
• Have or have had cancer
• Have numbness or tingling or a nervous system disease such as multiple sclerosis or Guillain-Barré syndrome
• Have or had heart failure
• Have recently received or are scheduled to receive a vaccine. HUMIRA patients may receive vaccines, except for live vaccines. Children should be brought up to date on all vaccines before starting HUMIRA
• Are allergic to rubber, latex, or any HUMIRA ingredients
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed
• Have a baby and you were using HUMIRA during your pregnancy. Tell your baby’s doctor before your baby receives any vaccines

Also tell your doctor about all the medicines you take. You should not take HUMIRA with ORENCIA^® (abatacept), KINERET^® (anakinra), REMICADE^® (infliximab), ENBREL^® (etanercept), CIMZIA^® (certolizumab pegol), or SIMPONI^® (golimumab). Tell your doctor if you have ever used RITUXAN^® (rituximab), IMURAN^® (azathioprine), or PURINETHOL^® (mercaptopurine, 6-MP).

What should I watch for AFTER starting HUMIRA?

HUMIRA can cause serious side effects, including:

• Serious infections. These include TB and infections caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria. Symptoms related to TB include a cough, low-grade fever, weight loss, or loss of body fat and muscle.
• Hepatitis B infection in carriers of the virus. Symptoms include muscle aches, feeling very tired, dark urine, skin or eyes that look yellow, little or no appetite, vomiting, clay-colored bowel movements, fever, chills, stomach discomfort, and skin rash.
• Allergic reactions. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include hives, trouble breathing, and swelling of your face, eyes, lips, or mouth.
• Nervous system problems. Signs and symptoms include numbness or tingling, problems with your vision, weakness in your arms or legs, and dizziness.
• Blood problems (decreased blood cells that help fight infections or stop bleeding). Symptoms include a fever that does not go away, bruising or bleeding very easily, or looking very pale.
• Heart failure (new or worsening). Symptoms include shortness of breath, swelling of your ankles or feet, and sudden weight gain.
• Immune reactions including a lupus-like syndrome. Symptoms include chest discomfort or pain that does not go away, shortness of breath, joint pain, or rash on your cheeks or arms that gets worse in the sun.
• Liver problems. Symptoms include feeling very tired, skin or eyes that look yellow, poor appetite or vomiting, and pain on the right side of your stomach (abdomen). These problems can lead to liver failure and death.
• Psoriasis (new or worsening). Symptoms include red scaly patches or raised bumps that are filled with pus.

Call your doctor or get medical care right away if you develop any of the above symptoms.

Common side effects of HUMIRA include injection site reactions (pain, redness, rash, swelling, itching, or bruising), upper respiratory infections (sinus infections), headaches, rash, and nausea. These are not all of the possible side effects with HUMIRA. Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Remember, tell your doctor right away if you have an infection or symptoms of an infection, including:

• Fever, sweats, or chills
• Muscle aches
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Blood in phlegm
• Weight loss
• Warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body
• Diarrhea or stomach pain
• Burning when you urinate
• Urinating more often than normal
• Feeling very tired

HUMIRA is given by injection under the skin.

This is the most important information to know about HUMIRA. For more information, talk to your health care provider.

Please see the Full Prescribing Information, including the Medication Guide, for HUMIRA.

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.

If you are having difficulty paying for your medicine, AbbVie may be able to help. Visit www.AbbVie.com/myAbbVieAssist to learn more.

Sponsored by AbbVie.

US-HUMD-210294

2021-12-16T17:33:32

(BPT) – Throughout the past year, you may have heard about plasma in terms of its potential use in treating COVID-19. However, for more than 80 years, plasma has been a lifeline for thousands of people who live with rare and chronic complex conditions. Plasma donations are critical in helping save lives because they are used to make life-sustaining medicine. Even with the global pandemic shedding light on the role of plasma in fighting disease, many people may not know how thousands around the country rely on plasma every day.

Here are five key reasons to consider donating plasma today.

1. Plasma is used to make life-saving medicine

Plasma carries out a variety of functions in the body, including helping the body fight disease. Plasma donations are processed into life-saving medicine for people with rare and chronic conditions including immunodeficiency disorders. Often, there are no alternative treatments for these conditions. Plasma donations are life-changing and provide an opportunity for patients around the country to live a happier and healthier life.

2. Plasma cannot be manufactured in a lab

Even with the scientific advances in the health care industry, medicine developed from plasma can only be made from plasma donated from healthy adults. Plasma cannot be manufactured in a lab or any other artificial environment. Because of this, plasma has become a scarce yet life-changing resource for people who rely on these plasma-based medicines.

3. The plasma donation process is safe and fast

Thousands of people donate plasma safely every day. Donating plasma is a low-risk procedure with minimal or no side effects. On a donor’s first visit to a plasma donation center, the whole process, including a physical examination, medical screening and the plasma donation, usually takes about two hours. Future visits take less time.

Because the body quickly replenishes the plasma removed during the donation process, healthy individuals may donate as often as twice in a seven-day period, with at least one day between donations. To learn more about the donation process visit www.biolifeplasma.com.

4. Many individuals are eligible to donate plasma

To donate plasma, an individual must be at least 18 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and pass all other required donor eligibility criteria to protect the donor’s health and safety of the plasma. Healthy individuals who are eligible to donate their plasma can do so, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.

5. There is an urgent need for plasma donations

With plasma donations lower than usual through the pandemic and the demand for medicine developed from plasma growing worldwide, the need for plasma is more urgent than ever. Global demand for these therapies has increased over the past 20 years — and continues to grow due to more rare diseases being identified as well as more patients being diagnosed. Everyone has the power to make a difference through plasma donation and potentially help save lives.

How can you help?

The need for plasma is greater than ever and BioLife Plasma Services, part of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, is welcoming plasma donors to help at centers around the country. In addition to potentially making a positive impact on someone’s life, plasma donors are compensated in recognition of the time, commitment and the effort required for their donation. Find a plasma donation center near you at www.biolifeplasma.com, or by downloading the BioLife App.