Category: Brandpoint Health

2021-10-13T07:01:00

(BPT) – After delaying due to the pandemic, you finally schedule your mammogram. Once the images are taken and analyzed, you’re told there is something abnormal and your doctor wants to take next steps. What can you expect next?

Hearing you have an abnormal mammogram can be scary, but remember, getting called back is common and does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer. What it means is there is something that your health care team wants to look at more closely. This may be calcifications, dense breast tissue, a cyst or several other things. Try to keep in mind, fewer than one in 10 women called back for more tests are found to have cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.

Many women delayed mammograms due to the pandemic and providers are urging women age 40 and older, as well as those in high­-risk groups, to schedule this important appointment as soon as possible. Early detection through regular mammograms provides critical preventative care because it provides insight into what’s happening inside your body. If you do have breast cancer, the earlier you find it, the more treatable it is.

Next steps after an inconclusive mammogram

Exploring your options and knowing what to expect after receiving an inconclusive mammogram is important and can help relieve some anxiety you may be experiencing. The radiologist who reviewed your images will likely make recommendations based on what they see and what they want to learn more about. Next steps could include another mammogram, an ultrasound scan or an MRI. Feel free to ask questions and inquire about new technology that could be available to you.

One option that is helping health care teams get detailed images quickly and efficiently is contrast­-enhanced spectral mammography — often called CESM technology. SenoBright HD is GE Healthcare’s CESM option that may be available on the same machine you received your mammogram on, meaning it’s possible to get a CESM exam following an abnormal mammogram.

How does CESM work? Dr. Jason Shames, Associate Director of Research, Division of Breast Imaging, Co-Director, Breast Imaging Fellowship at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital explains. “After additional imaging, many women learn they have nothing to be concerned about. For a small percentage of women, a physician may recommend additional testing, which typically is a biopsy consisting of a small amount of tissue sent to pathology or imaging follow-up. Ask your doctor questions through each step of your individual health care journey so you can be informed and feel empowered.”

“SenoBright produces the standard mammogram with an additional view almost simultaneous, after the administration of the similar contrast used for CT-Scan,” said Dr. Shames. “The results are 2 images: The standard mammogram and the second which specifically highlights where the contrast is being taken up within the breast. This gives us all the benefits of standard mammography with the additional benefits of a functional imaging which greatly support our ability to detect cancers.”

Feel empowered through patient engagement

Being an engaged patient can help you better understand and feel confident in your health care. Feel free to discuss any questions you have with your health care provider. Additionally, there may be opportunities to participate and feel more in control during your exam.

In fact, GE data found two out of three patients prefer SenoBright HD contrast mammography to a breast MRI¹. This is attributed to faster procedure time, greater comfort, lower noise level and lower rate of anxiety. Learn more at GEHealthcare.com.

References:

1. Hobbs et al., Contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) and contrast enhanced MRI (CEMRI): Patient preferences and tolerance, J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol. 2015

2021-10-12T13:01:00

(BPT) – When Broadway theaters lowered their curtains due to COVID-19 in March 2020, it was not immediately apparent how long the stages would be empty. As a cultural and economic engine for New York, Broadway’s 18-month closure not only impacted the more than 293,000 workers it employs, but also the hotels, restaurants and transportation across the city that rely on theatergoers. As one of New York City’s largest industries, the cultural sector generated $110 billion in economic activity prior to the pandemic.

With COVID-19 restrictions lifting and Broadway reopening, the intersection of financial and overall well-being remains at the forefront for many people. According to a new poll commissioned by Prudential, 2 in 3 Americans say that arts, entertainment and cultural events positively impact their mental health (68%) and overall well-being (66%), and the quality of life in communities (64%). At the same time, Americans consider their financial security (92%) equally important to their mental (93%) and physical health (92%) when it comes to overall well-being.

Prudential supported Broadway’s return with its sponsorship of a 3-day festival in Times Square, donation to the Black Theatre Coalition and The Actors Fund, and launch of a free financial wellness digital hub that provides financial tools and resources for the performing arts community.

As the theater community and people across America get back on their feet, here are a few tips to support financial resilience:

• Conduct a financial wellness assessment: Take advantage of free tools like this financial well assessment to help you create a plan to reach your financial goals. From retirement planning to household budgeting, you can see where your finances currently stand and how to plan ahead for the future.
• Dig out of debt: Focus on small, achievable goals rather than overwhelming balances so it feels more doable. For example, if you owe $5,000, pay off $500 and then $1,000 so that paying off the overall sum feels less overwhelming. Consult a financial professional and consider a free consultation with an organization like GreenPath to help create an action plan to tackle debt.
• Make saving automatic: Once you set your financial goals, stay on target by automating your savings. Set up recurring transfers each month from your checking account to your savings account (or to multiple savings accounts for separate goals). If you pay off a debt or no longer have to pay a bill (you cancel a membership or subscription), put that money into savings before you can spend it.

These simple steps and others can help you stay focused on reaching your financial goals and, as it turns out, your overall well-being.

2021-10-11T12:53:00

(BPT) – Breast cancer’s impact is far reaching. Whether affected directly or indirectly by the disease, everyone can agree that finding effective treatments is a must. This is especially important for people with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), also known as stage 4.

MBC is breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other organs in the body, most often the bones, lungs, liver or brain. The majority of people with MBC were diagnosed and treated with early-stage breast cancer — sometimes years before — and then had a recurrence.

MBC is stage 4 breast cancer, the final and most advanced stage. Nearly all of the breast cancer deaths in the U.S. are a result of metastatic breast cancer. This year more than 44,000 people are expected to die from MBC in the U.S. alone, according to Susan G. Komen, the world’s leading breast cancer organization.

Research has allowed people with metastatic disease to live longer, more meaningful lives. In the 1970s, for example, only about 10% of people survived five years after a diagnosis of MBC; now the five-year relative survival rate is 28% thanks to increased understanding of the disease and new and more effective treatments. However, there are more than 168,000 people in the U.S. living with MBC and still much work to be done.

“There currently are no cures for MBC, which means at some point every treatment will eventually fail,” said Paula Schneider, Komen’s president and CEO. “Our goal is to continue to accelerate discovery so that there is always a next treatment available to stop metastatic breast cancer from progressing and give patients more moments with their loved ones.”

Research provides hope and is critical to helping patients have those moments. You can help support research for MBC by donating to Susan G. Komen online at Komen.org.

In honor of MBC Awareness Day, funds raised on Komen.org throughout the week of October 11 to October 15, 2021, will be dedicated to funding research to better prevent, detect and treat MBC. Act now to help change the future for people with MBC.

“We are committed to saving lives from breast cancer and that means we must continue to fund research into better ways to stop metastasis from happening and to help provide new treatments for those living with the disease,” said Schneider. “The hope for everyone touched by MBC is to live longer, which is why research is so important and every donation made to Komen makes a difference.”

If you are a caregiver, a loved one, or are recently diagnosed with breast cancer or living with MBC, it can be a difficult journey. Susan G. Komen strives to provide accurate breast cancer information based on scientific evidence, to facilitate a supportive community for people impacted by breast cancer, and to fuel research discoveries that will lead to lifesaving treatments. By funding research, people living with MBC have hope that the next treatment will be available for them.

2021-10-09T08:01:00

(BPT) – This article is sponsored by Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc. and Lundbeck.

On October 10, World Mental Health Day will be observed to raise awareness for the variety of mental health illnesses that people across the globe are faced with daily. This day also provides an opportunity to educate the public on Bipolar-I Disorder (BP-I), and the importance of stability among BP-I patients.

In the United States alone, an estimated 4.8 million adults are or will be diagnosed with BP-I at some point in their life. BP-I is a serious, chronic mental illness that generally requires lifelong treatment and is characterized by the occurrence of manic episodes; patients can also experience mixed episodes which consist of both manic and depressive symptoms.

A manic episode can manifest itself as either euphoria or feeling “high,” or as irritability. For example, people with BP-I may have an inflated self-image and have increased energy, with hyperactivity and a decreased need for sleep. Depressive episodes typically consist of symptoms like feeling very down or sad, trouble concentrating or making decisions, and a feeling of restlessness that can last one to two weeks, or sometimes longer.

“Consistency in care is a critical part of helping people living with BP-I remain stable,” said Dr. Greg Mattingly, a psychiatrist from Saint Charles, Missouri. “This includes providing hope and facilitating healthy conversations between patients and physicians, as research suggests that it’s important for patients with BP-I to keep up with regular medical and therapy appointments.”

World Mental Health Day shines an important light on mental health disorders, including BP-I, and can be used as a time to spread education and awareness about the variety of resources and options available for individuals living with mental health disorders.

While patients should always speak to their healthcare team before making changes to their current care plan, the Mayo Clinic has created guidance to help individuals living with BP-I continue to manage their mental health:

• Keep days structured – Create a schedule and structure for work, free time, family and socializing.
• Stick to healthy habits – Eat healthy meals, get plenty of sleep, spend time outside, and stay physically active (e.g., walking, yoga, or using other exercise options available), as appropriate based on a patient’s care plan determined by their doctor.
• Engage in relaxing activities – Take time for hobbies and relaxing activities to stay grounded. This may include crafts, cooking, playing or listening to music or meditating.
• Limit news and social media consumption – Worrisome news can exacerbate stress so it’s important to limit exposure to those information streams. It’s also good to curtail time on social media since those platforms can also heighten negative emotions.
• Stay consistent with counseling or therapy sessions – For patients in therapy, keeping up with therapy sessions is an especially important aspect of their comprehensive treatment plan.
• Keep up with medication regimens – It is important that patients stay current with their treatments and for stable patients to talk to their doctor about maintenance treatment options that may be appropriate for them.

For patients with BP-I who are currently stable on their oral medication, a long-acting injection may be appropriate for them.

One option is ABILIFY MAINTENA^® (aripiprazole), a once monthly long acting injectable, given by injection by a healthcare professional for the maintenance treatment of BP-I in adults. Patients should continue to take their current antipsychotic medicine for two weeks after their first treatment with ABILIFY MAINTENA.

ABILIFY MAINTENA may cause serious side effects, including an increased risk of death in elderly people with dementia-related psychosis. The most common side effects with ABILIFY MAINTENA include weight gain, an inner sense of restlessness such as feeling like you need to move, injection site pain, and sleepiness. Please read the complete IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION below.

Learn more at abilifymaintena.com.

INDICATION and IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION for

ABILIFY MAINTENA^® (aripiprazole)

INDICATION:

ABILIFY MAINTENA is a prescription medicine given by injection by a healthcare professional for:

• maintenance treatment of bipolar I disorder in adults

It is not known if ABILIFY MAINTENA is safe and effective in children under 18 years of age.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION:

Elderly people with dementia-related psychosis are at increased risk of death when treated with antipsychotic medicines including ABILIFY MAINTENA. ABILIFY MAINTENA is not for the treatment of people who have lost touch with reality (psychosis) due to confusion and memory loss (dementia).

Do not receive ABILIFY MAINTENA if you are allergic to aripiprazole or any of the ingredients in ABILIFY MAINTENA. Allergic reactions to aripiprazole have ranged from rash, hives and itching to anaphylaxis, which may include difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, and swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue.

ABILIFY MAINTENA may cause serious side effects including:

• Increased risk of stroke and ministroke has been reported in clinical studies with oral aripiprazole of elderly people with dementia-related psychosis and can lead to death.
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a serious condition that can lead to death. Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room right away if you have some or all of the following symptoms of NMS: high fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, or changes in pulse, heart rate, and blood pressure.
• Uncontrolled body movements (tardive dyskinesia). ABILIFY MAINTENA may cause movements that you cannot control in your face, tongue, or other body parts. Tardive dyskinesia may not go away, even if you stop receiving ABILIFY MAINTENA. Tardive dyskinesia may also start after you stop receiving ABILIFY MAINTENA.
• Problems with your metabolism such as:
  • High blood sugar (hyperglycemia): Increases in blood sugar can happen in some people who receive ABILIFY MAINTENA. Extremely high blood sugar can lead to coma or death. If you have diabetes or risk factors for diabetes (such as being overweight or a family history of diabetes), your healthcare provider should check your blood sugar before you start receiving ABILIFY MAINTENA and during your treatment.

• Call your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms of high blood sugar while receiving ABILIFY MAINTENA:

• feel very thirsty
• need to urinate more than usual
• feel very hungry
• feel weak or tired
• feel sick to your stomach
• feel confused, or your breath smells fruity
• Increased fat levels (cholesterol and triglycerides) in your blood.
• Weight gain. You and your healthcare provider should check your weight regularly.
• Unusual urges. Some people receiving ABILIFY MAINTENA have had unusual urges such as gambling, binge eating or eating that you cannot control (compulsive), compulsive shopping, and sexual urges.

If you or your family members notice that you are having unusual urges or behaviors, talk to your healthcare provider.

• Decreased blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension). You may feel lightheaded or faint when you rise too quickly from a sitting or lying position.
• Low white blood cell count
• Seizures (convulsions)
• Problems controlling your body temperature so that you feel too warm. Do not become too hot or dehydrated while you receive ABILIFY MAINTENA. Do not exercise too much. In hot weather, stay inside in a cool place if possible. Stay out of the sun. Do not wear too much clothing or heavy clothing. Drink plenty of water.
• Difficulty swallowing

Do not drive, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how

ABILIFY MAINTENA affects you. ABILIFY MAINTENA may make you feel drowsy.

Do not drink alcohol while you receive ABILIFY MAINTENA.

Before receiving ABILIFY MAINTENA, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

• have never taken aripiprazole before
• have diabetes or high blood sugar or a family history of diabetes or high blood sugar. Your healthcare provider should check your blood sugar before you start receiving ABILIFY MAINTENA and during your treatment.
• have or had seizures (convulsions)
• have or had low or high blood pressure
• have or had heart problems or a stroke
• have or had a low white blood cell count
• have problems that may affect you receiving an injection in your arm or buttocks
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if ABILIFY MAINTENA will harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while receiving ABILIFY MAINTENA, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Atypical Antipsychotics. You can register by calling 1-866-961-2388 or go to http://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/
• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. ABILIFY MAINTENA can pass into your milk and may harm your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you receive ABILIFY MAINTENA.

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

ABILIFY MAINTENA and other medicines may affect each other causing possible serious side effects. Do not start or stop any medicines during treatment with ABILIFY MAINTENA without talking to your healthcare provider first.

The most common side effects of ABILIFY MAINTENA include: weight gain, inner sense of restlessness such as feeling like you need to move (akathisia), injection site pain, or sleepiness (sedation).

It is important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience prolonged, abnormal muscle spasms or contractions, which may be signs of a condition called dystonia.

These are not all the possible side effects of ABILIFY MAINTENA.

If you have any questions about your health or medicines, talk to your healthcare provider.

You are encouraged to report side effects of ABILIFY MAINTENA (aripiprazole).

Please contact Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc. at 1-800-438-9927 or FDA at

1-800-FDA-1088 (www.fda.gov/medwatch).

Please read U.S. FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION, including BOXED WARNING, and MEDICATION GUIDE.

Dr. Mattingly also advises patients to engage their health care team if they have any concerns or notice any changes in their mental health.

For more information about ABILIFY MAINTENA, visit www.abilifymaintena.com.

2021-10-09T06:01:00

(BPT) – –

2021-10-08T10:27:00

(BPT) – A healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body when it comes to achieving and maintaining wellness. Yet in the midst of navigating a global pandemic, while still having to juggle work deadlines and family obligations, it can be all too easy to neglect our mental health.

October 10, as it has been every year since 1992, is World Mental Health Day. Established to educate, raise awareness of and reduce social stigma around the subject of mental health, the annually observed day is also a great time for all of us to consider our own mental wellness and what we can do to improve it. Here are four simple ways to reset, recharge and bring a sense of balance to our busy lives.

Take time out to treat yourself to an extra dose of self-care with these easy, mood-boosting activities, and to take care of your mental well-being. Also, World Mental Health Day presents a golden opportunity for all of us to come together and support one another by sharing our journeys. Here are some suggestions for fostering a greater connection with yourself and creating a stronger sense of community.

Get in Touch with Nature. Spending time in nature offers myriad mental health benefits — and it’s completely free. Go for a quick walk outside and feel your stress levels go down as you bask in the glorious sunshine and let the fresh air enter your lungs. Being outdoors in the natural light can lift your mood no matter the time of year, and the physical activity will do wonders for both body and mind.

You can also bring nature into the home and try your hand at some indoor gardening. All you need is a nice, sunny spot with good ventilation and a few tips on how to get started — which are easy to find on the internet nowadays. Sustainability blogger and YouTuber Immy Lucas has great advice to offer on growing your own food, which she shares along with some delicious plant-based recipes in a new short film.

Do Something Creative. A creative hobby can help take your mind off the stresses of everyday life, and boost your confidence through the satisfying act of making something yourself. Hand-crafts like knitting and crochet let you apply and improve your own skills while producing practical items such as beanies and sweaters, or endearing keepsakes like teddy bears or Christmas decorations. If you don’t have any resources at hand, you can easily buy a DIY kit for a fun sewing or hand-tufting project.

Dancing to a catchy beat can also help lift your mood and ease anxiety. Plus, it’s an activity that’s even more fun when you share it with others; the combination of movement and music is a time-tested way to feel good and spread positivity. Join a dance class or showcase your moves online on popular platforms like TikTok. There are always a lot of fun, easy challenges, like LG’s Life’s Good global dance challenge, that anyone can join in and dance along to.

Reconnect with Loved Ones. Connecting with others and forming lasting social bonds is important for everyone’s mental well-being. In those times when we feel emotionally fragile, it’s so often the affection of friends and family that help to get us through. Stay in touch with the people you care for by writing a letter, crafting an email or just picking up the phone and making a quick call.

An even better way to catch up is to organize an in-person get-together, such as a barbecue cookout, or a picnic in the park. You’ll enjoy the company of those you love and hold dear, and come away with shared memories that you can reminisce and laugh about for years to come.

Perform an Act of Kindness. Helping someone in need not only uplifts and empowers them, but makes us feel good as well. Performing an act of kindness can help give you a sense of purpose and increase your connection with, and empathy for, those around you. Paying it forward also encourages others to do their part, forming a chain of ‘kind acts’ that can end up impacting the whole community in the most positive of ways.

Giving to a charity devoted to assisting those with mental health issues — or any worthy cause — is also an excellent way to practice kindness to others. Sign up at a local volunteer group to help out, or make a cash donation. You could also take action as a conscious consumer — companies like LG Russia and Rare Beauty have launched donation drives to support the wellness of the entire community. LG Russia’s annual blood donation also saw a fantastic turnout by the younger generations of Moscow and Rostov, who united as one to give selflessly in support of the nation’s blood banks. Rare Beauty’s Mental Health 101 campaign raised a hefty sum, providing mental-health resources to teens.

However you choose to mark World Mental Health Day, and whatever chores and tasks you need to get done, make sure to be kind to yourself and to those around you.

2021-10-07T08:31:00

(BPT) – Imagine living with excruciating chest pain that is a consistent part of your life. Imagine being so fatigued and short of breath that you can’t even do the dishes or walk up the stairs. Imagine seeing multiple different doctors over an 11-year period, and being subjected to test after test, but still not receiving a correct diagnosis. Imagine feeling like it’s all in your head or worse, that your doctor thinks it’s all in your head.

This is exactly what a patient named Vicky Ventura experienced before she was finally diagnosed with coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD), a difficult-to-detect type of heart disease that is often misdiagnosed and disproportionately afflicts women. CMD affects the heart’s smallest blood vessels, so many CMD patients go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed because traditional medical tests for heart disease, such as an angiogram, are designed to look for blockages in large vessels.¹ After 11 years, Ms. Ventura finally received a correct diagnosis after undergoing a procedure known as coronary reactivity testing, which is an invasive procedure that looks at how the small vessels of the heart are functioning. After reviewing all test results, Vicky’s cardiologist diagnosed her with CMD.

In CMD patients, the larger coronary arteries are usually unobstructed. Instead, in CMD patients, the walls of small penetrating coronary arteries are damaged or diseased, causing a decreased flow of oxygenated blood to the heart muscle.¹ This decrease in blood flow leads to recurring, debilitating chest pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath.¹ Along with the physical symptoms, many patients also report poor quality of life, along with mental and emotional distress.³

“My kids saw how I deteriorated throughout the years, how I changed completely, how I was no longer active,” Ms. Ventura said of her experience living with CMD. “I wasn’t spending quality time with them anymore. I couldn’t drive anymore. I couldn’t walk long distances anymore. Even just getting out of bed was a challenge for me.”

Like Vicky, CMD patients often go years without proper diagnosis, during which time they are untreated or incorrectly treated and at high risk of heart attack and other serious cardiovascular-related events due to the underlying CMD condition.^2,4

Limited treatment options

Once patients do finally receive an accurate CMD diagnosis, they are forced to come to terms with the fact that there is no cure for this disease and no approved treatments specifically indicated for CMD. To help relieve symptoms in patients with CMD, doctors generally turn to medications that are used to treat typical angina, including beta blockers, calcium antagonists and nitrates, that provide little relief.²

However, Caladrius Biosciences is evaluating a treatment for CMD called XOWNA^® (formerly CLBS16) that it hopes will prove effective through clinical trials to alleviate CMD suffering. It is a type of cell therapy that uses a patient’s own cells to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels in an effort to repair damage associated with the coronary arteries.

While XOWNA^® is an investigative therapy that is currently being studied and is not yet approved by the FDA, investigators were encouraged by results from a Phase 2a open label trial that tested XOWNA^®, the ESCaPE-CMD study, as reported in 2019 and 2020. Caladrius is currently enrolling new patients in a Phase 2b clinical trial (known as the “FREEDOM Trial”).

Results from the ESCaPE-CMD study showed that, in some cases, a single administration of XOWNA^® durably improved heart function and significantly relieved symptoms in study participants for at least 6 months following treatment (the designed follow-up period for the study),⁵ including Vicky.

“I couldn’t take care of me anymore, and that was not the quality of life that I wanted,” Ms. Ventura said, of her decision to participate in the ESCaPE-CMD study.

During the study, doctors collected Vicky’s own cells from her bone marrow, specifically her blood vessel forming cells called CD34+ cells. A few days later, they administered a single concentrated infusion of those same cells back into the vessels of Vicky’s heart.

“My results with this treatment did amazing things for me,” Ms. Ventura said more than two years after participating in the study. “It gave me back my life. I am doing a lot of things that I couldn’t do before.”

More hope on the horizon

After the positive outcomes with the ESCaPE-CMD study, Caladrius Biosciences is actively enrolling patients in a new study called the FREEDOM Trial, which aims to further evaluate the effects of XOWNA^®.

If you experience chest pain on a daily or weekly basis and have been told by a physician that your coronary arteries appear “normal,” then you may be a candidate for the FREEDOM Trial.

Ms. Ventura said she would highly recommend participating in the trial for anyone like her who has suffered with CMD.

“There’s finally a treatment that could help them feel better like it did with me,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting or hoping what I got in return. I am so glad that I did it.”

¹ Diagnosis | Stanford Health Care. Retrieved from stanfordhealthcare.org website: https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/blood-heart-circulation/microvascular-dysfunction/diagnosis.html

² Microvascular angina: angina that predominantly affects women https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4351318/

³ Coronary microvascular dysfunction: an update https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/35/17/1101/2465953

⁴ Ischemia and No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease (INOCA): What Is the Risk? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6201435/

⁵ Caladrius Biosciences internal database for ESCaPE-CMD Study

2021-10-06T07:53:00

(BPT) – The onset of autumn doesn’t just signal gorgeous fall foliage and sweater weather — unfortunately it’s also the onset of cold and flu season. That means this is an ideal time to refocus on the key foundational elements of your health journey. This includes adequate sleep, routine exercise and proper nutrition, but one important factor that you may be overlooking is implementing a supplement routine that supports your body’s essential needs.

The experts at The Vitamin Shoppe say there are three key foundational health supplements you should consider incorporating into your routine: multivitamins, probiotics and omega-3s. With so many supplement brands and products available today, it’s important to understand how each type of supplement benefits your health so that you can select the right ones for your own wellness routine and lifestyle.

Traditional multivitamins

A multivitamin combines vitamins, minerals and nutrients to fill nutritional gaps in your diet, supporting health and well-being and can be the ideal ‘first vitamin’ to incorporate into your wellness routine if you’re unsure about where to start. For women, consider the Garden of Life mykind Organics Whole Food Multivitamin for Women as it’s made from real food including over 30 fruits, vegetables and herbs that promote energy, metabolism, blood and heart health. Plus, it helps keep your skin radiant and nails strong. A good formula for men is the New Chapter Organic Multivitamin for Every Man 40+, it delivers superfoods like ginger and organic turmeric, and is formulated for heart, energy, prostate, immune and vision support.

Gummy multivitamins

Gummy forms have become increasingly popular and are a great alternative for those who have trouble swallowing or digesting pills – or who just want a tasty twist to their wellness routine. If you’re looking to try out some delicious gummy multivitamins, a great choice is The Vitamin Shoppe Men’s Multi Gummies and The Vitamin Shoppe Women’s Multi Gummies, which are pectin-based and formulated to help support energy throughout the day.

Probiotics

From balancing gut health to immune support, probiotics promote everyday wellness. You’re probably familiar with probiotics being associated with yogurt, kombucha, or even some of your favorite beauty products. Some high-quality options are the Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Once Daily Men’s Probiotics – 50 Billion CFUs and the Renew Life Ultimate Flora Women’s Complete Probiotic – 90 Billion CFUs. Another popular option is The Vitamin Shoppe Probiotic – 30 Billion CFUs, helping to restore favorable bacteria in the gut and support digestive and immune health.

Omega-3s

Omega-3s are essential for health and can be obtained through food and a healthy diet. However, many Americans do not get adequate omega-3s via their daily diet, so incorporating supplements can be a smart choice. The right omega-3s can help you get your daily dose of essential fatty acids that support heart, brain and eye health. While there are many omega-3 supplements available, make sure you do your research for quality and purity when looking for these products. A few trusted, high-quality options to consider include New Chapter Wholemega – Whole Wild Alaskan Fish Oil & Omegas – 1000 MG, The Vitamin Shoppe Omega 3 Fish Oil – EPA /DHA 840mg and the Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega – 1,280 MG, which comes in a refreshing lemon flavor. For moms-to-be, look into the Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA – 830 MG Omega-3 + 400 IU Vitamin D3 to support a healthy pregnancy.

Combination supplements

While researching the vitamins and supplements that are right for you, you’ll likely notice tons of options that combine different elements of foundational health supplementation. For some people, this simplifies their routine by combining multiple benefits into a single supplement serving. For example, Rainbow Light Women’s One Multivitamin with Probiotics are expertly formulated to combine the benefits of vitamins and probiotics for a two-in-one health boost. Similarly, New Chapter Probiotic All-Flora – Whole-Food Live Probiotics is a triple combination of probiotics that replenish good bacteria, using prebiotics as fuel to help boost probiotic activity for complete gut health.

As with most things in life, a healthy lifestyle starts with the fundamentals. Creating a supplement routine that includes essential vitamins and supplements helps set you up for success in reaching your personal wellness goals. Visit VitaminShoppe.com, the trusted destination for lifelong wellness, to learn more about which vitamins and supplements are best for you.

2021-10-04T11:09:00

(BPT) – Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among U.S. women (except for skin cancers), with the American Cancer Society estimating that 281,550 new cases will be diagnosed this year. Because breast cancer screenings are a regular part of women’s wellness visits, it is common to hear about the importance of breast self-awareness, mammograms and the role genetics play, yet many women feel unprepared to talk with their doctor on these topics.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a great time to kickstart conversations about breast health. Dr. Janie Lee, Director of Breast Imaging at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA) and Professor of Radiology at the University of Washington, shares answers to common questions about breast cancer and preventative screening.

What is my risk?

Women in the U.S. have a one in eight chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime. Risk increases with age — most women are diagnosed after age 50, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The American Cancer Society notes that while the disease impacts women of all races, white women have the highest prevalence, and Black women are more likely to develop aggressive, advanced-stage cancer and are more likely to die from the disease.

The American Cancer Society also states that about 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary, commonly due to a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. Women with mutations on these or the lesser-known PALB2 gene are more likely to be diagnosed younger. The BRCA1 mutation increases the chance of diagnosis by age 80 to 70%. If you have a family history of breast cancer, genetic testing to assess your risk may be an option.

Dense breasts also bring higher risk and can mask tumors on a mammogram. Women with dense breasts should talk with their doctor about their breast cancer risk. While not all women with dense breasts are at high risk for developing breast cancer, some women with increased risk might add breast MRI to mammography for preventative screenings.

When and how frequently should I be screened?

Regular screenings increase the potential to detect breast cancer early, before symptoms begin and the disease has progressed. Early detection is also more likely to improve survival outlook.

Most women should begin annual mammograms at 40, but those at high risk or with a family history should speak to their doctor about starting screenings sooner. According to American Cancer Society guidelines, average-risk women aged 55 and older who had a normal mammogram within the last year can elect to be screened every other year.

To make mammograms more accessible, the SCCA MammoVan brings onsite screenings to communities around Seattle — check with your providers to see if a mobile mammogram service is offered in your area.

What are my screening options?

The most common screening technique is a mammogram, a low-dose X-ray of the breast. 3D mammography, also called digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), is now the more common type of mammogram and the preferred method at SCCA — an American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. This method takes many pictures at once and offers better odds of early detection.

For women at high-risk, doctors may recommend an MRI and a mammogram. SCCA offers both with leading-edge technology and is also engaged in research to improve early detection with imaging.

A supplemental way for women to monitor their breast health is to be familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel, and report changes to a healthcare provider.

What changes should I be on the lookout for?

Mammograms find more than 85% of breast cancer in women who are without symptoms. Some women may develop a lump or other symptoms. If you notice any of these, it’s important to be evaluated:

• New lump in the breast or armpit
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
• Irritation, dimpling, redness or flaky skin
• Pain in the nipple or any area of the breast
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk
• Change in the size or shape of the breast

While these details may help provide clarity on breast cancer risks and screening options, further information and guidance are available on the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance website.

This year, pledge to prioritize your health by speaking to your healthcare provider, scheduling your mammogram and incorporating self-checks into your routine. There’s no better form of self-care.

2021-10-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – Flu season is here, and this year, there are continued concerns and uncertainties and even more reason to be prepared. In the United States, flu season lasts from October to May, and there’s no better time to focus on strengthening your immune system to help mitigate against flu and other viruses.

Traditionally people look for ways to boost, but a healthy immune system is all a matter of balance. Only a healthy, balanced immune system can protect against the threat of virus and other health concerns associated with the fall and winter seasons.

How do you achieve a balanced immune system? Follow these six tips to keep you immune healthy now, during flu season, and all year long!

Look for opportunities to reduce stress. Lowering your stress level is crucial and may be one of the most important changes you can make. Consider daily meditation or a 10-minute yoga flow, either to start or end your day. Look for opportunities to build some downtime into your day whether it’s a walk on your lunch break or mid-day cup of tea. Finding time to unwind is so important and will make a difference in how you feel and enhance your immune system.

Make time for exercise. Exercise increases metabolic activity, mitochondria functions, better absorption from food, and better blood flow that increases nutrition supply to cells and detoxification processes on the cell and organ level. With better cell nutrition and energy supply, all organs work better, including the brain. Exercise helps to reduce stress and your immune system to perform at a high level. You should try to get in at least 30 minutes a day of moderate cardio like walking, swimming, biking or running. If you need a nudge, set a reminder in your phone or smartwatch to make sure you move!

Get enough sleep. When it comes to your health, sleep plays an important role. Without sufficient sleep, your body makes fewer cytokines which are a type of protein that targets infection and inflammation to effectively create an immune response. Additionally, chronic sleep loss makes the flu vaccine less effective by reducing your body’s ability to respond. So, make sure you get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to strengthen your defenses.

Balance, don’t boost, your immune system. Incorporate a daily immune support supplement to help keep your immune system balanced throughout the year. An all-natural immune supplement such as del-IMMUNE V Daily will replicate the intestine’s natural immune function which is to turn on and off when needed. During flu season when the threat of virus is high and throughout the year when bacteria, environmental agents and stress are a concern, you may want to consider stronger immune formulas such as del-IMMUNE V Defense.

Practice good hygiene. Hygiene is high on the list of priorities these days, and for good reason. Washing your hands is a small activity that can lead to big health benefits, as well as general cleaning and disinfecting of your home and work spaces. Here are some others:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home when you are under the weather.
• Continue to mask up to protect yourself and others.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Take time to get a flu vaccine. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccine by the end of October to help protect against flu viruses.

Vaccination is especially important for people at higher risk of serious flu complications including young children, pregnant women, those with certain chronic conditions, and people 65 years and older. However, everyone’s situation is unique so discuss vaccination with your doctor to help make the best decision for you.

The benefits of a balanced immune system far outweigh the risk of flu, and adopting these small changes and habits will make a big difference. But, keep in mind that strengthening your immune system should always be a priority. So, start being immune healthy today, so that your healthy, balanced immune system will be prepared for flu season.