Category: Brandpoint Health

2021-10-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – As vaccinations have become more widely available,^[1] many people are starting to resume pre-pandemic activities.^[2] For the 30 million Americans ages 40 and older impacted by overactive bladder or “OAB”, ^[3] returning to pre-pandemic activities can be stressful, as well as embarrassing, if they are worrying about the whereabouts of the nearest restroom.⁴ Unfortunately, this feeling of embarrassment means many with OAB are reluctant to discuss their symptoms, even with their own doctor.^[4]

To call attention to the issue, TV host and journalist Debbie Matenopoulos connected with a women’s healthcare provider and patient to learn about the condition.

“While this is not something I’m dealing with in my life, OAB can affect women especially those my age and older,”² said Matenopoulos. “I wanted to learn more about it and encourage anyone who may be reluctant to get help.”

Matenopoulos interviewed a woman named Marie, diagnosed by her physician with overactive bladder 8 years ago, as well as women’s health care expert Jo Ann Fisher, NP, to learn more about the symptoms, behavioral modifications and treatments for overactive bladder.

What is OAB?

“Overactive bladder is a condition marked by symptoms of urinary urgency, that ‘gotta go’ feeling, and frequent urination — generally eight or more times per day — and sometimes leaking urine,”^2,[5] explained Fisher. “Overactive bladder can occur at any time of life, although it is more common in people as they age.”^2,3

These symptoms can impact daily routines, especially when away from the home environment.^[6]

“If I was at the pool swimming, I’d have to get out of the water and rush to the bathroom, quickly trying to undo my wet bathing suit while feeling that strong urge to urinate,” said Marie. “When I was at the gym, I’d get set up on the treadmill and frequently have to run to the ladies’ room. Exercising became really difficult.”

What can you do about OAB symptoms?

“Talk to your healthcare provider,” recommended Fisher. “It may not be easy to bring up, but your doctor is trained to understand OAB symptoms and can offer you the best advice.” ^[7]

If you’re mapping out where the bathrooms are or wearing darker clothing in case of leakage, it may help you to tell your doctor about what symptoms you’re experiencing.³

“When I started experiencing OAB symptoms, I was in tears. My husband encouraged me to talk to my doctor,” said Marie. “I have a friend who started experiencing symptoms of urinary urgency and frequency during the quarantine. She was at home anyway near her bathroom, but now that restrictions have lessened, she’s worried about her frequent need to run to the restroom. I shared my experience with her, and I hope to share it with others, because these symptoms can be managed.”

Management and treatment of OAB

Fisher recommends proactive measures that can help manage OAB symptoms, which your doctor may also advise. These include:

• Avoiding dietary triggers that can worsen OAB symptoms, such as caffeine or acidic foods and drinks like red wine, tomato products and citrus.^[8]
• Keep a “bladder diary” to discover what foods or beverages make your symptoms worse.⁶
• Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles by learning to do “kegel” exercises.^[9]
• Prescription medication. Your doctor may also recommend prescription medication. For example, Myrbetriq (mirabegron extended-release tablets) is a prescription medicine for adults used to treat overactive bladder with symptoms of urinary urgency, frequency and leakage.^[10]

“Myrbetriq has been on the market for nearly a decade since being FDA approved in 2012,”⁹ said Fisher. “It can help the bladder store urine.⁹ I talk to my patients about risks associated with Myrbetriq, including the potential for increased blood pressure, inability to empty the bladder and angioedema.”⁹ Please see additional Important Safety Information below.

Matenopoulos will be sharing highlights from her interview with Marie and Jo Ann Fisher via her social media. The full interview will be available for viewing on Myrbetriq.com.

“I learned a lot from this interview, and want to thank Jo Ann and Marie for sharing their experiences with me,” said Matenopoulos. “While I personally do not have OAB, I think it’s important for women with this condition to know they are not alone and that there is help out there.”

To learn more about Marie’s story and treatment for overactive bladder symptoms, visit Myrbetriq.com.

Use of Myrbetriq

MYRBETRIQ^® (mirabegron extended-release tablets) is a prescription medicine for adults used to treat overactive bladder (OAB) with symptoms of urgency, frequency and leakage.

Important Safety Information

Do not take MYRBETRIQ if you are allergic to mirabegron or any ingredients in MYRBETRIQ.

MYRBETRIQ may cause your blood pressure to increase or make your blood pressure worse if you have a history of high blood pressure. You and your doctor should check your blood pressure while you are taking MYRBETRIQ. Call your doctor if you have increased blood pressure.

MYRBETRIQ may increase your chances of not being able to empty your bladder. Tell your doctor right away if you have trouble emptying your bladder or you have a weak urine stream.

MYRBETRIQ may cause an allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue with or without difficulty breathing. Stop using MYRBETRIQ and go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take including medications for overactive bladder or other medicines especially thioridazine (Mellaril™ and Mellaril-S™), flecainide (Tambocor®), propafenone (Rythmol®), digoxin (Lanoxin®) or solifenacin succinate (VESIcare®). MYRBETRIQ may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how MYRBETRIQ works.

Before taking MYRBETRIQ, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including if you have liver or kidney problems.

The most common side effects of MYRBETRIQ include high blood pressure, pain or swelling of the
nose or throat (nasopharyngitis), urinary tract infection, and headache.

For further information, please talk to your healthcare professional and see accompanying Patient Product Information and complete Prescribing Information for MYRBETRIQ^® (mirabegron extended-release tablets).

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.

To learn more about Marie’s story and treatment for overactive bladder symptoms, visit Myrbetriq.com.

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk with your doctor before starting any diet or exercise program. This article is sponsored by Astellas. Marie is a real Myrbetriq patient. Astellas compensated Marie to share her story. This article features other participants, including a healthcare professional, who have been compensated by Astellas.

Myrbetriq^® is a registered trademark of Astellas Pharma Inc. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

© 2021 Astellas Pharma US, Inc. All rights reserved.

2021-10-01T05:01:00

(BPT) – –

2021-09-30T14:11:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by GSK

At first thought, it would appear that Cherie, 50, from Chicago, Illinois, and Leanne, 62, from White Plains, New York, don’t have much in common. Cherie enjoys exploring the outdoors and traveling with her husband, while Leanne, a financial advisor, enjoys making jewelry, cooking and gardening at home.

However, there is a ribbon that binds them — and it’s a teal one.

The color teal represents ovarian cancer awareness. Ovarian cancer affects a diverse group of women, and sharing their stories, such as Cherie’s and Leanne’s, uncovers that even though each and every experience is unique, women can take similar steps to find a path forward.

What you need to know about ovarian cancer

Approximately 22,000 U.S. women are projected to be diagnosed with ovarian cancer annually¹ and there are an estimated 235,000 women living with ovarian cancer — many of whom will be diagnosed with advanced disease.² For these women, the likelihood that their cancer will recur after initial treatment increases.

The possibility of recurrence can be scary and it can leave women feeling uncertain about what to do next. Fortunately, options exist for women that may help delay the cancer from coming back.³ These treatments are known as maintenance therapies.

Their path to diagnosis

With her experience in hotel management, Cherie knew she needed to utilize her communication skills to start an open dialogue with her physician so she could be as equipped as possible for the road ahead. Already attending yearly follow­ ups due to a personal history of breast cancer, she decided to complete genetic testing. She learned that she was positive for the BRCA gene mutation. BRCA stands for BReast CAncer susceptibility gene and can be inherited from a parent. What some people may not know is that women who are BRCA positive have a higher risk for breast and ovarian cancer.⁴ Testing for the BRCA gene mutation can happen prior to or after a diagnosis of ovarian cancer and is done via a blood or saliva sample.

When Cherie began experiencing abdominal pain and discomfort, she was sent for gynecological scans and referred to a gynecologic oncologist. After further examination, Cherie was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The results from the surgery she underwent after her diagnosis indicated that she had advanced disease.

Following Leanne’s diagnosis, she underwent multiple cycles of chemotherapy. Leanne and her gynecologic oncologist discussed maintenance treatment options that she would be eligible for as a woman who does not have the BRCA mutation.

Maintenance therapy is a treatment given to eligible patients, who have a complete or partial response to chemotherapy, which may delay the time before the cancer progresses. As a result of these proactive conversations with their doctors and after carefully considering their options, Leanne and Cherie started ZEJULA (niraparib, 100mg capsules). ZEJULA is an oral medicine known as a PARP-inhibitor, which works by preventing cells from repairing their damaged DNA in both healthy cells and cancer cells.

ZEJULA is a prescription medicine used for the maintenance treatment of adults with advanced ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer, or primary peritoneal cancer. ZEJULA is used after the cancer has responded (complete or partial response) to treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy.

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

ZEJULA may cause serious side effects such as bone marrow problems called myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or a type of blood cancer called acute myeloid leukemia (AML), which may lead to death. Symptoms of low blood cell counts may include weakness and can be a sign of serious bone marrow problems. Contact your doctor for new onset of bleeding, fever, or infection. High blood pressure is common and can become serious. Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) is a condition that affects the brain and may happen during treatment with ZEJULA. Tell your doctor if you have headache, vision changes, confusion, or seizure. Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications, and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or plan to be. Some common side effects include nausea, low blood cell counts, tiredness, constipation, muscle and back pain, headache, and trouble sleeping.

Please see additional Important Safety Information below and full Prescribing Information.

Cherie’s and Leanne’s experience demonstrated how critical it is to educate women with advanced ovarian cancer on the benefits and risks of maintenance treatment options, like ZEJULA. Cherie and Leanne continue to keep an open communication with their doctors, scheduling regular visits as part of routine monitoring required with ZEJULA as well as to monitor for an ovarian cancer recurrence. The reality is, nearly 85% of women with advanced ovarian cancer will see the cancer return after treatment.⁷ By learning about maintenance therapies and discussing their options with healthcare teams as early on as possible, it may help them regain a sense of control over their disease.

Cherie, who is BRCA-positive, and Leanne, who is BRCA-negative, were grateful that ZEJULA is a maintenance treatment option for all eligible women after response to platinum-based chemotherapy, regardless of biomarker status, including those who may have another genetic factor based on their tumor, known as homologous recombination deficiency (HRD). Homologous recombination is a process by which DNA is repaired, so when the body is unable to repair double strand breaks in DNA, it is known as homologous recombination deficiency. If a tumor tests positive for HRD, it means that the cancer cells will have a harder time repairing themselves, and that the tumor itself may be sensitive to certain treatments⁸, such as ZEJULA. Testing for HRD is done after diagnosis, on the tumor itself.

ZEJULA is a maintenance therapy option for those with HRD-positive tumors, who make up about 50% of women with ovarian cancer⁹. In sharing their stories, Leanne and Cherie hope to spread the word so other women with ovarian cancer feel empowered to know their options and make informed decisions about their treatment plan with their healthcare team. Talk to your doctor about ZEJULA and visit zejula.com for more information.

Advice for other women

“I wish I knew that cancer doesn’t wait for you to be ready,” says Cherie. “Despite how I got here, I wish I knew it wasn’t my fault, that I’m stronger than I know, and that no matter what happens it will all work out.”

Her advice to others: “Seek support through organizations or ovarian cancer online support groups. Communicate with your doctors. Do not be afraid to seek mental health help through a psychologist. Try to be as active as possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

Leanne also recommends, “Take someone with you to initial treatments and appointments to take notes and help clarify things. So much information is coming at you and you are still processing everything. Continue to take the notebook to appointments and treatments as well as making notes when you’re at home. It helps you remember what to discuss with your doctor.”

Indication and Important Safety Information

Indication

ZEJULA is a prescription medicine used for the maintenance treatment of adults with advanced ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer, or primary peritoneal cancer. ZEJULA is used after the cancer has responded (complete or partial response) to treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy.

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

Important Safety Information

ZEJULA may cause serious side effects, including:

Bone marrow problems called Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) or a type of blood cancer called Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Some people who have ovarian cancer and who have received previous treatment with chemotherapy or certain other medicines for their cancer have developed MDS or AML during treatment with ZEJULA. MDS or AML may lead to death.

Symptoms of low blood cell counts (low red blood cells, low white blood cells, and low platelets) are common during treatment with ZEJULA. They can be a sign of serious bone marrow problems, including MDS or AML. These symptoms may include the following:

Weakness Feeling tired Weight loss

Frequent infections Fever Shortness of breath

Blood in urine or stool Bruising or bleeding more easily

Your doctor will do blood tests to check your blood cell counts before treatment with ZEJULA. You will be tested weekly for the first month of treatment with ZEJULA, monthly for the next 11 months of treatment, and from time to time afterward.

High blood pressure is common during treatment with ZEJULA, and it can become serious. Your doctor will check your blood pressure and heart rate at least weekly for the first two months, then monthly for the first year, and as needed thereafter during your treatment with ZEJULA.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a condition that affects the brain and may happen during treatment with ZEJULA. If you have headache, vision changes, confusion, or seizure, with or without high blood pressure, please contact your doctor.

Before starting to take ZEJULA, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• Have heart problems
• Have liver problems
• Have high blood pressure
• Are allergic to FD&C Yellow No. 5 (tartrazine) or aspirin. ZEJULA capsules contain tartrazine, which may cause allergic-type reactions (including bronchial asthma) in certain people, especially people who also have an allergy to aspirin
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. ZEJULA may harm an unborn baby and may cause loss of pregnancy (miscarriage)
  • If you are able to become pregnant, you should use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment with ZEJULA and for 6 months after taking the last dose of ZEJULA
  • If you are able to become pregnant, your doctor may perform a pregnancy test before you start treatment with ZEJULA
  • You should tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed
  • ZEJULA may harm your baby. You should not breastfeed your baby during treatment with ZEJULA and for 1 month after taking the last dose of ZEJULA

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

The most common side effects of ZEJULA include the following:

Heart not beating regularly Nausea Constipation Vomiting Pain in the stomach area Mouth sores Diarrhea Indigestion or heartburn Dry mouth

Tiredness Loss of appetite Urinary tract infection Changes in liver function or other blood tests Pain in your muscles and back Headache Dizziness

Change in the way food tastes Trouble sleeping Anxiety Sore throat Shortness of breath Cough Rash Changes in the amount or color of your urine

If you have certain side effects, then your doctor may change your dose of ZEJULA, temporarily stop, or permanently stop treatment with ZEJULA.

These are not all the possible side effects of ZEJULA. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Prescribing Information.

References:

1. Cancer Facts and Figures 2018. American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer­facts­ statistics/all­cancer­facts­figures/cancer­facts­figures­2020.html. Accessed August 18, 2021.
2. Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program. Cancer Stat Facts: Ovarian Cancer. National Cancer Institute website. https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/ovary.html. Updated 2020.Accessed August 18, 2021.
3. Tew WP, Lacchetti C, Ellis A, Maxian K, Banerjee S, Bookman M, Jones MB, Lee JM, Lheureux S, Liu JF, Moore KN, Muller C, Rodriguez P, Walsh C, Westin SN, Kohn EC. PARP Inhibitors in the Management of Ovarian Cancer: ASCO Guideline. J Clin Oncol. 2020 Aug 13:JCO2001924. doi: 10.1200/JCO.20.01924.
4. BRCA gene test for breast and ovarian cancer risk. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/brca-gene-test/about/pac-20384815. Accessed August 18, 2021.
5. Konstantinopoulos PA, Ceccaldi R, Shapiro GI, D’Andrea AD. Homologous Recombination Deficiency: Exploiting the Fundamental Vulnerability of Ovarian Cancer. Cancer Discov. 2015; 5(11): 1137­54.
6. Debulking definition. National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer­ terms/def/debulking. Accessed on August 18, 2021.
7. Lorusso D, Mancini M, Di Rocco R, Fontanelli R, Raspagliesi F. The role of secondary surgery in recurrent ovarian cancer [published online August 5, 2012]. Int J Surg Oncol. 2012;2012:613980. doi:10.1155/2012/613980.
8. Homologous recombination deficiency. Target Ovarian Cancer. https://targetovariancancer.org.uk/about-ovarian-cancer/hereditary-ovarian-cancer/homologous-recombination-deficiency. Accessed August 18, 2021.
9. Targeting the HRD biomarker may improve outcomes for ovarian cancer patients. Cancer Treatments Center of America. https://www.cancercenter.com/community/blog/2021/07/what-is-homologous-recombination-deficiency. Accessed August 18, 2021.

©2021 GSK or licensor.

NRPOGM210104 September 2021

Produced in USA.

2021-09-29T18:17:00

(BPT) – A greater focus on respiratory conditions and new research could help us better manage diseases like pulmonary fibrosis.

September is Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month, a time to drive awareness of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) and its most lethal form called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). While PF and its symptoms are often under-recognized by patients, medical professionals like Dr. Sachin Gupta, practicing pulmonologist and Senior Medical Director at Genentech, are hopeful that the COVID-19 pandemic will lead to a greater focus on respiratory health and the impact of other diseases that affect breathing and the lungs.

Understanding IPF

IPF is a rare, chronic disease that causes scarring in the lungs, which makes it difficult for them to absorb oxygen. In IPF, the cause of the lung scarring is unknown. People with IPF may experience difficulty breathing, which gets worse as scarring spreads through the lungs. They may also have other symptoms, like a persistent dry cough and fatigue.

Because IPF symptoms are similar to other diseases, physicians perform a series of tests and scans to diagnose the condition. For example, they listen for distinctive Velcro^®-like crackles in the lungs during examination in someone with IPF.

Dr. Gupta says that when it comes to getting diagnosed with IPF, sooner is better. “Lung scarring from IPF is better managed when it is diagnosed early, and many treatment options are more effective earlier on in the course of the disease,” he says.

While there is no cure for IPF, there are treatment options that may help delay disease progression. One of them is called Esbriet^® (pirfenidone), an FDA-approved therapy that may help preserve more of your lung function by slowing disease progression. The most serious side effects that could occur while on treatment with Esbriet include liver problems, sun sensitivity and rash, and stomach problems.

Lessons learned from COVID-19

Dr. Gupta is hopeful that clinicians can improve the diagnosis and management of IPF using some of the lessons they’ve learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“One silver lining to the pandemic for people with IPF is how the initial evaluation stages are being streamlined,” says Dr. Gupta. “Many pulmonary clinics are using telehealth visits before ordering diagnostic tests. Then, the patient will come to the clinic for evaluation and to discuss their test results and potential therapies. The continued use of telemedicine could reduce the time to diagnosis and lead to earlier treatment.”

Dr. Gupta also believes COVID-19 research may help scientists advance treatments for IPF.

“COVID-19 studies are giving us a deeper understanding of immune activation and the proliferation of cells that have important implications for lung diseases like IPF. This new research will greatly enrich our understanding of how lung scarring forms and progresses.”

Finally, Dr. Gupta says the increased discussion of respiratory conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic may improve awareness of diseases like IPF and symptoms people should discuss with their doctors.

“Denial can be a strong response to unexpected changes in our health. However, it is very important to describe symptoms like breathlessness and cough to your physician if they persist for more than a few months. I also encourage people to advocate for themselves if the symptoms don’t improve over time.”

Dr. Gupta reiterated that if you suspect you or a loved one might have IPF or another disease that impacts the lungs, it’s important to talk to your doctor, since early diagnosis can make a big difference. “Getting started on treatment is a very important step toward managing your IPF,” he says.

About Esbriet

Esbriet is a prescription medicine used to treat people with a lung disease called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). It is not known if Esbriet is safe and effective in children.

Select Important Safety Information

Before you take Esbriet, tell your doctor if you:

• have other medical conditions (particularly liver or kidney problems).
• are a smoker.
• are or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed (Esbriet has not been studied in these patients).
• are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.

What are the possible side effects of Esbriet?

Esbriet may cause serious side effects, including:

• liver problems. Call your doctor if you have symptoms such as yellowing of your skin or eyes, dark or brown urine, pain on the upper right side of your stomach area, bleeding or bruising more easily than normal, or increased fatigue. Your doctor will also do regular blood tests to check your liver.
• sun sensitivity and rash. When you are outside, use sunscreen (SPF 50) and wear a hat and clothes that cover your skin to avoid getting a sunburn.
• stomach problems. Esbriet may cause stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, heartburn, and stomach pain.

Your doctor may change your dose or discontinue Esbriet if side effects do not go away.

The most common side effects of Esbriet include upper respiratory tract infections, feeling tired, headache, dizziness, loss of appetite, sinusitis, insomnia, or weight loss.

These are not all the possible side effects of Esbriet.

What should you avoid while taking Esbriet?

• Direct exposure to sunlight, or light from sunlamps and tanning beds.
• Other medicines that can make your skin sensitive to sunlight.
• Smoking, which may affect how well Esbriet works.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch or to Genentech at 1-888-835-2555.

Please see esbriet.com for the full Prescribing Information, including Patient Information, for additional important safety information.

2021-09-29T12:45:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Jazz Pharmaceuticals

Getting a good night’s rest can be challenging, as many people juggle their careers or academics, social relationships and family responsibilities. This is particularly true for people living with the lifelong sleep disorder narcolepsy, which is characterized by the inability to stay awake and alert during the day, resulting in periods of irrepressible need for sleep or unintended lapses into sleep.^1-4 Not only can narcolepsy impact a person’s daily life, it can also have a far-reaching impact on long-term health and well-being, with research showing an increase in prevalence of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression and anxiety compared to people without narcolepsy.^5-8 It’s important for everyone, including those with narcolepsy, to make healthy lifestyle choices to maximize their heart health. In honor of World Narcolepsy Day and World Heart Day, read on for tips to get heart-heathy sleep.

1. Monitor daily sodium consumption

Excess sodium intake is associated with increased blood pressure, which in turn is a strong risk factor for cardiovascular disease.^9-13 It’s recommended that daily sodium intake not exceed 2,300 milligrams, with an ideal limit of less than 1,500 milligrams for most adults.¹⁴ Since these limits can be easily met or exceeded due to the high sodium content of certain foods and beverages, it is important to monitor daily sodium consumption.¹⁵

2. Get active

It’s recommended to get regular exercise throughout the week to get your heart pumping and further lessen the risk of cardiovascular disease. This includes brisk walking or running, biking, swimming, dancing or tennis for 30 minutes per day.¹⁶ Remember to speak with your doctor before starting an exercise regimen.

3. Eat a heart-healthy diet

It’s important to eat nutritious foods to improve and maintain your heart health.¹⁶ This includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, skinless poultry and lean meats, low-fat dairy products and fish. Limit or avoid saturated and trans fats, salt and added sugar. Remember to speak with your doctor before starting a diet or nutrition regimen.

4. Be mindful of different medications

Although food and beverages may be the obvious sources of sodium consumption, some medications, including those used to treat narcolepsy symptoms, also contain high levels of sodium.^15,17 This can contribute to the total amount of daily sodium intake for people living with narcolepsy, so it’s vital they are aware of how medications can also impact their heart health.

5. Develop a bedtime routine

Although it can be difficult for people with narcolepsy to get into a good sleep rhythm based on the nature of the condition, developing a sleep routine could help with reducing stress levels before bed and comorbid risks.^18,19 This includes setting a bedtime, taking a warm bath, avoiding screen time immediately before bed, listening to music and sleeping in a dark and cool room.

6. Don’t smoke

Smoking greatly increases your risk for heart disease. If you do smoke, quitting will lower your risk for heart disease.¹⁶

References

1. Thorpy MJ. Recently approved and upcoming treatments for narcolepsy. CNS Drugs. 2020;34(1):9-27. doi:10.1007/s40263-019-00689-1
2. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Narcolepsy Fact Sheet. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Narcolepsy-Fact-Sheet. Accessed July 2020.
3. Zhang J, Han F. Sleepiness in narcolepsy. Sleep Med Clin. 2017;12(3):323-330. doi:10.1016/j.jsmc.2017.03.008
4. American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The International Classification of Sleep Disorders. Third Edition (ICSD-3). 2014.
5. Black J, Reaven NL, Funk SE, et al. Medical comorbidity in narcolepsy: findings from the Burden of Narcolepsy Disease (BOND) study. Sleep Med. 2017;33:13-18. doi:10.1016/j.sleep.2016.04.004
6. Ohayon MM. Narcolepsy is complicated by high medical and psychiatric comorbidities: a comparison with the general population. Sleep Med. 2013;14(6):488-492. doi:10.1016/j.sleep.2013.03.002
7. Cohen A, Mandrekar J, St Louis EK, Silber MH, Kotagal S. Comorbidities in a community sample of narcolepsy. Sleep Med. 2018;43:14-18. doi:10.1016/j.sleep.2017.11.1125
8. Jennum P, Ibsen R, Knudsen S, Kjellberg J. Comorbidity and mortality of narcolepsy: a controlled retro- and prospective national study. Sleep. 2013;36(6):835-840. doi:10.5665/sleep.2706
9. Farquhar WB, Edwards DG, Jurkovitz CT, Weintraub WS. Dietary sodium and health: more than just blood pressure. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2015;65(10):1042-1050. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2014.12.039
10. Kokubo Y, Matsumoto C. Hypertension is a risk factor for several types of heart disease: review of prospective studies. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2017 ;956:419-426. DOI: 10.1007/5584_2016_99.
11. Kjeldsen SE. Hypertension and cardiovascular risk: General aspects. Pharmacol Res. 2018;129:95-99. doi:10.1016/j.phrs.2017.11.003
12. Elliott P, Stamler J, Nichols R, et al. Intersalt revisited: further analyses of 24 hour sodium excretion and blood pressure within and across populations. Intersalt Cooperative Research Group [published correction appears in BMJ 1997 Aug 23;315(7106):458]. BMJ. 1996;312(7041):1249-1253. doi:10.1136/bmj.312.7041.1249
13. Mente A, O’Donnell MJ, Rangarajan S, et al. Association of urinary sodium and potassium excretion with blood pressure. N Engl J Med. 2014; 371:601-611. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1311989
14. American Heart Association. May 23, 2018. How much sodium should I eat per day?. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sodium/how-much-sodium-should-i-eat-per-day.
15. Perrin G, Korb-Savoldelli V, Karras A, Danchin N, Durieux P, Sabatier B. Cardiovascular risk associated with high sodium-containing drugs: A systematic review. PLoS One. 2017;12(7):e0180634. Published 2017 Jul 6. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0180634
16. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevent Heart Disease. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/prevention.html. Accessed September 2020.
17. Quader ZS, Zhao L, Gillespie C, et al. Sodium intake among persons aged ≥2 years — United States, 2013–2014. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2017;66:324–238. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6612a3
18. Irish LA, Kline CE, Gunn HE, Buysse DJ, Hall MH. The role of sleep hygiene in promoting public health: a review of empirical evidence. Sleep Med Rev. 2015;22:23-36. doi:10.1016/j.smrv.2014.10.001

2021-09-29T11:31:01

(BPT) – Heart failure impacts more than 6 million people in the United States. In fact, it’s a leading cause of hospitalization with more than 1 million people admitted each year. In 2018, heart failure accounted for nearly 10% of cardiovascular-related deaths. Given its impact, it’s important for those living with heart failure to take a proactive approach to their care.

If you’ve been diagnosed with heart failure, remember that you’re more than a patient — you’re a member of your own care team and should feel empowered to take control of your treatment journey.

To help get you started, consider the following tips on taking a proactive approach to your care:

• Build Your Village. Living with heart failure is a journey, one that’s important not to take alone. Find a local or online advocacy organization or support group that offers education, resources, comfort and comradery every step of the way.
• Ask for Help. While family may not understand exactly what you’re going through, they may be able to help with aspects of daily life, whether big or small, if you’re not feeling your best.

  Don’t be afraid to ask for help cleaning your home, doing laundry, cooking or even running errands. It may also be a good idea to invite a family member or close friend to join you at doctor’s appointments. Having an extra set of ears or someone to take notes is always helpful!

• Be Proactive. Be an active participant in your care and prepare for appointments by writing out your questions in advance and keeping a journal of symptoms to discuss with your doctor. Ask questions and engage in conversation to ensure you and your doctor are on the same page about your status and your care plan.
• Stay Organized. Consider keeping all your important medical information organized in one spot so it’s easily accessible. Helpful information to have on-hand includes a list of upcoming appointments, your journal of questions and symptoms, insurance cards, contact information for your healthcare team members, emergency contacts, list of medications, etc.
• Do Your Research. There’s been a lot of progress in the treatment of heart failure in recent years, so it’s important to do your own research and talk to your doctor about treatment options that may be right for you, depending on your specific diagnosis.

  For adults diagnosed with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved Jardiance^® (empagliflozin) 10 mg to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death plus hospitalization for heart failure. If you’ve been diagnosed with HFrEF, you can also visit Jardiance.com for additional information.

What is JARDIANCE? (www.jardiance.com)

JARDIANCE is a prescription medicine used to:

• lower blood sugar along with diet and exercise in adults with type 2 diabetes
• reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes who also have known cardiovascular disease
• reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure (when the heart is weak and cannot pump enough blood to the rest of your body) in adults with heart failure

JARDIANCE is not for people with type 1 diabetes. It may increase their risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (increased ketones in the blood or urine).

JARDIANCE is not for use to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes who have severe kidney problems, because it may not work.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not take JARDIANCE if you are allergic to empagliflozin or any of the ingredients in JARDIANCE.

Do not take JARDIANCE if you are on dialysis.

JARDIANCE can cause serious side effects, including:

• Ketoacidosis (increased ketones in your blood or urine). Ketoacidosis is a serious condition which needs to be treated in the hospital. Ketoacidosis may lead to death. Ketoacidosis occurs in people with type 1 diabetes and can also occur in people with type 2 diabetes taking JARDIANCE, even if blood sugar is less than 250 mg/dL. Ketoacidosis has also happened in people with diabetes who were sick or who had surgery during treatment with JARDIANCE. Stop taking JARDIANCE and call your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest hospital emergency room if you get any of the following symptoms, and if possible, check for ketones in your urine:
• nausea
• vomiting
• stomach-area (abdominal) pain
• tiredness
• trouble breathing
• Dehydration. JARDIANCE can cause some people to become dehydrated (the loss of body water and salt). Dehydration may cause you to feel dizzy, faint, light-headed, or weak, especially when you stand up. Sudden worsening of kidney function has happened in people who are taking JARDIANCE.

You may be at a higher risk of dehydration if you:

• take medicines to lower your blood pressure, including water pills (diuretics)
• are on a low salt diet
• have kidney problems
• are 65 years of age or older

Talk to your healthcare provider about what you can do to prevent dehydration, including how much fluid you should drink on a daily basis, and if you reduce the amount of food or liquid you drink, if you are sick or cannot eat, or start to lose liquids from your body from vomiting, diarrhea, or being in the sun too long.

• Serious urinary tract infections. Serious urinary tract infections can occur in people taking JARDIANCE and may lead to hospitalization. Tell your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, such as a burning feeling when passing urine, a need to urinate often or right away, pain in the lower part of your stomach or pelvis, or blood in the urine. Sometimes people also may have a fever, back pain, nausea or vomiting.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): If you take JARDIANCE with another medicine that can cause low blood sugar, such as sulfonylurea or insulin, your risk of low blood sugar is higher. The dose of your sulfonylurea or insulin may need to be lowered. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include:
• headache
• drowsiness
• weakness
• dizziness
• confusion
• irritability
• hunger
• fast heartbeat
• sweating
• shaking or feeling jittery

• Necrotizing fasciitis. A rare but serious bacterial infection that causes damage to the tissue under the skin in the area between and around your anus and genitals (perineum). This bacterial infection has happened in women and men who take JARDIANCE, and may lead to hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and death. Seek medical attention immediately if you have fever or are feeling very weak, tired or uncomfortable (malaise), and you develop any of the following symptoms in the area between and around your anus and genitals: pain or tenderness, swelling, and redness of skin (erythema).

• Vaginal yeast infection. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have vaginal odor, white or yellowish vaginal discharge (discharge may be lumpy or look like cottage cheese), and/or vaginal itching.
• Yeast infection of the penis. Swelling of an uncircumcised penis may develop that makes it difficult to pull back the skin around the tip of the penis. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have redness, itching or swelling of the penis, rash of the penis, foul smelling discharge from the penis, and/or pain in the skin around the penis.

  Talk to your healthcare provider about what to do if you get symptoms of a yeast infection of the vagina or penis. Your healthcare provider may suggest you use an over-the-counter antifungal medicine. Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you use an over-the-counter antifungal medication and your symptoms do not go away.

• Allergic (hypersensitivity) reactions. Symptoms of serious allergic reactions to JARDIANCE may include:
• swelling of your face, lips, throat, and other areas of your skin
• difficulty with swallowing or breathing
• raised, red areas on your skin (hives)
  If you have any of these symptoms, stop taking JARDIANCE and contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

The most common side effects of JARDIANCE include urinary tract infections and yeast infections in females.

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

Before taking JARDIANCE, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have kidney problems
• have liver problems
• have a history of infection of the vagina or penis
• have a history of urinary tract infections or problems with urination
• are going to have surgery. Your healthcare provider may stop your JARDIANCE before you have surgery. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are having surgery about when to stop taking JARDIANCE and when to start it again
• are eating less or there is a change in your diet
• have or have had problems with your pancreas, including pancreatitis or surgery on your pancreas
• drink alcohol very often, or drink a lot of alcohol in the short term (“binge” drinking)
• have type 1 diabetes. JARDIANCE should not be used to treat people with type 1 diabetes
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. JARDIANCE may harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant during treatment with JARDIANCE
• are breastfeeding or are planning to breastfeed. JARDIANCE may pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Do not breastfeed while taking JARDIANCE

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take water pills (diuretics) or medicines that can lower your blood sugar, such as insulin.

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.

For more information, please see Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.

2021-09-28T10:11:00

(BPT) – During a time of national crisis, it can be harder than ever for vital messages to cut through the noise of constant news alerts and social media clutter. But powerful images have a way of communicating emotions and ideas in a way that words cannot, helping to break through the noise and deliver important messages.

With this idea in mind, three artists specializing in public murals from across the country took up the challenge of conveying an important moment — and message — during the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this summer, the artists were tasked with depicting the long-awaited and joyful moment of finally being able to safely welcome friends and family back into the home after months of separation, thanks to the COVID-19 vaccine. All three resulting murals encapsulate the meaning of the “It’s Up To You” COVID-19 vaccine awareness effort, born out of a partnership between the COVID Collaborative, the Ad Council and Lysol.

“With the COVID vaccines widely available, it’s critical that Americans with questions know where to turn for reliable answers,” said Lisa Sherman, president and CEO of the Ad Council. “We are thrilled that Lysol, a brand deeply trusted by consumers, is joining our initiative. Together, we can inspire individuals who are still hesitant to get the facts about the safety and efficacy of these vaccines.”

To that end, each mural does more than just convey the emotions and excitement of these happy reunions after more than a year of isolation. They also provide a public service by featuring a QR code that people can scan, taking them to GetVaccineAnswers.org to learn more information about COVID-19 vaccines.

The murals were painted on walls in three different U.S. cities:

Washington, D.C.

Still on display at 3925 Minnesota Ave. N.E. in Washington, D.C., the D.C. mural was created by local artist Aniekan Udofia. Udofia chose to paint several vivid, colorful and stylized portraits of people celebrating being together once again. His mural captures the feelings that so many have experienced when reuniting with friends and family after a long separation.

“It’s one of my best pieces that I’ve done in a long time because of the storytelling in it, the vibrancy of it,” said Udofia. “You can see all the activity going on — when someone is walking into the room, the gift-giving, the hugging.”

Detroit, Michigan

The mural that was painted in Detroit, Michigan, was created by Bakpak Durden, who displays larger-than-life, close-up and highly realistic images of people in motion — and in the midst of intense emotion — to show how the vaccine enables safe reunions with loved ones.

“After a little over a year of wanting to keep our loved ones safe, finally being able to run into the arms of our chosen family for a long-coveted embrace is an amazing feeling,” said Durden. “Inside the home, everything is in full color. The person running into the hug is going from black and white to color, taking on the warmth and vibrancy of being inside the arms of a loved one.”

Chicago, Illinois

And in Chicago, artist Liz Flores used a more abstract, almost cubistic, color-blocking style to depict an image that tells an emotional story.

“I wanted to show a very personal setting that highlights the joy of getting back together. Recently, after not being able to see my grandmother for a year because of COVID, myself, my family and my grandma were all vaccinated and I was able to reunite with her,” explained Flores. “We had a girls’ night with my grandma and sister where we shared old stories and ate Cuban food. This artwork is meant to depict that moment by featuring three women seated around a table and listening to stories of the past year while eating and drinking cafe con leche, green olives and plantains.”

While Flores and Durdens’ murals are no longer visible on-site, they can still be viewed on the artists’ respective Instagram pages.

For more information on COVID-19 vaccines and the “It’s Up to You” campaign, visit GetVaccineAnswers.org.

2021-09-28T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you are one of the million Americans who will have a joint replacement this year, your doctor may have some impressive new technologies to share with you. These new technologies are designed to make your surgical experience and recovery that much easier. For many, digital connectivity has improved our lives, by helping us simplify complicated everyday tasks and keeping us informed about the world around us. This same digital revolution is taking place in hospitals and surgery centers around the country.

Zimmer Biomet, a global medical technology leader, recently introduced the ZBEdge™ Connected Intelligence Suite, a family of digital and robotic technologies designed with the goal of enhancing the joint replacement surgical experience for healthcare professionals and patients. ZBEdge includes advanced surgical robots, patient-focused digital applications and sophisticated data analysis software. All these tools and devices work together to help surgeons provide each patient with more personalized care.

“Digital technologies play a role in almost every aspect of our daily lives, from how we communicate to how we manage our schedules. So, it’s no surprise that robotics, wearable devices and connected technologies are becoming an important part of how doctors treat and care for patients,” said Dr. James Ballard, MD.* “The ZBEdge suite arms surgeons with sophisticated technologies designed to assist them in performing surgery with precision and efficiency, guided by data that helps them make decisions about the best approach to treat each individual patient.”

A joint replacement patient who visits a surgeon using ZBEdge may experience new technological innovations before, during and after their surgery. One such innovation is mymobility^®, an application that uses the Apple Watch^® and iPhone^® to deliver support and guidance to help patients prepare for and recover from treatment. The app allows a surgeon to remotely monitor their patients’ activity levels and progress, and provide follow-up care as needed. Through enhanced communication and timely educational content, patients can know what to expect leading up to their surgery. The app also uses the Apple Watch to track step count, stand time and other movement metrics. Patients can choose to share their data, which is de-identified, aggregated and analyzed in OrthoIntel Orthopedics Intelligence Platform to uncover clinical insights to help HCPs optimize care.

In the operating room, a surgeon using ZBEdge may use a robotic surgical assistant called ROSA^® Knee. ROSA Knee helps the surgeon plan and personalize the surgery and placement of the knee implant. All the while, ROSA Knee will collect and store information on a patient’s unique joint anatomy and take constant measurements as the surgeon performs the procedure.

The data collected by mymobility and ROSA are seamlessly shared with Zimmer Biomet’s data analytics tool called OrthoIntel Orthopedics Intelligence Platform. OrthoIntel analyzes the data on each patient and compares it with data from a global network of mymobility patients who may have had similar anatomy or demographics. This information helps the surgeon better understand typical progress so they can apply those insights to make the right decision for their current patient.

But the patient’s interaction with ZBEdge doesn’t end once they leave the operating room. During recovery at home, in addition to tracking how well a patient can move, mymobility with Apple Watch provides support and tools like physical therapy exercises and educational messages from the surgeon, and video calls for virtual follow-up visits. In addition, the app also prompts patients to share information on pain levels and medication intake so their surgeon and care team can adjust their recovery regimen as needed.

“ZBEdge supports the patient and surgeon from start to finish, collects data from each step of the surgical journey and translates it into insights to help surgeons make informed treatment decisions,” added Dr. Ballard. “ZBEdge is the future of joint replacement surgery, where surgeons can use objective data and breakthrough technologies to enhance their surgical skills and decision making and strive to achieve the best outcomes for each patient.”

For more information about ZBEdge, visit zimmerbiomet.com/zbedge.**

*Dr. Ballard is a Paid Zimmer Biomet Consultant.

**Link for healthcare professionals only.

For Patients

Not all patients are candidates for this product and/or procedure, and mymobility can only be used if prescribed by a surgeon for patients identified as appropriate for remote care who have a compatible smartphone. iPhone and Apple Watch are registered trademarks of Apple, Inc.

Not all patients are candidates for this product and/or procedure. Only a medical professional can determine the treatment appropriate for your specific condition. Talk to your surgeon about whether joint replacement is right for you and the risks of the procedure, including the risks of infection, implant wear, loosening, breakage or failure, any of which can require additional surgery. For additional information or to find a surgeon near you, visit www.zimmerbiomet.com.

For Healthcare Professionals

This material is intended for Healthcare Professionals. Zimmer Biomet does not practice medicine. For indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, potential adverse effects and patient counseling information, see the package insert or contact your local representative; visit www.zimmerbiomet.com for additional product information. (c) 2021 Zimmer Biomet.

2021-09-28T07:37:00

(BPT) – The return of fall often means busier schedules with school, extracurriculars, work and family gatherings filling the calendar and as a result, can often mean more stress. For many, as stress levels rise, so do acne flareups. Fortunately, some expert dermatologist advice can help you cross acne breakouts off your list of worries this season.

“Stress and acne can often be connected,” said board-certified dermatologist Dr. Claire Chang. “And while we can’t eliminate the stress in our lives completely, there are some steps you can take to help calm current breakouts and prevent future flareups before they begin.”

Cleanse regularly, but gently

To start, Chang suggests finding a cleanser that is right for your skin type and needs. Cleansing regularly is key to eliminating dirt, oil and debris that settle on the skin and can cause clogged pores. However, over-cleansing with harsh soaps or scrubs can irritate skin and worsen inflammation, so it’s important to look for soap-free gentle cleansers.

“In general, sensitive, dry skin types should look for a gentle, hydrating cleanser. For those with clogged pores and acne-prone skin, a salicylic acid cleanser is typically best, as salicylic acid is oil-soluble and can penetrate deep into the pores to remove dirt, oil and other impurities to help prevent acne,” said Chang.

One option Chang recommends is CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser, a gel-to-foam cleanser that works to clear acne, reduce blackheads and improve the appearance of pores. The cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid and oil-absorbing technology to remove dirt, gently exfoliate clogged pores, and absorb excess oil. For added benefit, the formula contains three essential ceramides to maintain the protective skin barrier, while the inclusion of niacinamide helps to soothe the skin.

Treat with the right ingredients

Cleansing is just the first step in an acne-fighting routine, as breakouts often create a need for specific treatments to clear, brighten or repair impacted skin as well. Choosing treatments with the right ingredients depend on the type of acne you are experiencing, but since most patients experience a combination of acne types, there is not one exact formula for treating.

When researching serums and treatments, Chang says there are two main over-the-counter ingredients to look for:

1. Benzoyl peroxide is typically best for acne like papules and pustules, which are caused by bacteria and ruptured comedones, resulting in inflammation. The powerful ingredient helps to clear skin by minimizing the bacteria on the skin’s surface that lead to acne breakouts.

2. Salicylic acid is particularly effective for blackheads and white heads, formally known as comedones. The exfoliating ingredient helps to penetrate deeply into pores to clear away oils and impurities that are often the root cause of acne, appearing as whiteheads and blackheads.

In addition to acne-fighting ingredients, it’s also important to ensure that the formulas contain ingredients to benefit the skin barrier, like ceramides, which is often compromised because of acne.

Ceramides are lipids naturally found in skin and make up to 50 percent of its composition to form the natural skin barrier. Ceramides are an important ingredient for all skin types, but especially acne-prone, which is shown to have reduced levels of ceramides.

“Many acne medications can often be drying or irritating, and over-cleansing and over-exfoliating can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to a compromised skin barrier, so look for products with essential ceramides to help maintain and restore the skin barrier,” Chang said.

Chang suggests CeraVe Acne Control Gel, a hydrating all-over gel acne treatment that prevents new breakouts from forming while treating existing acne. This non-drying, full-face gel is formulated with a mixture of glycolic and lactic acids to smooth skin, salicylic acid to help clear acne and prevent breakouts and three essential ceramides to keep skin hydrated and restore the protective skin barrier.

In tandem with ceramides, SPF and niacinamide are also beneficial for an acne regimen. Dr. Chang suggests using an oil-free daily moisturizer with both to help protect, calm and hydrate impacted skin.

Consistency is key

When it comes to acne, many people take a reactive approach and only think about breakouts when they flare up. However, while treating the blemishes you see is important, having a preventative routine can help keep breakouts to a minimum, making a daily consistent skincare routine crucial.

“Consistency is key when it comes to treating acne, as most acne medications and routines may take six to eight weeks to see improvement,” said Chang. “Working with a board-certified dermatologist and seeking out dermatologist-developed products can help customize your acne care routine and get breakouts under control.”

Learn more skin care tips at CeraVe.com.

2021-09-24T11:01:00

(BPT) – Passion and drive are key to starting any new business. However, personal experiences often provide foundational elements that ultimately support success. This is notable for four Latino entrepreneurs — Cecilia Panichelli and Federico Carrillo, Mike Alfaro and Julissa Prado — who say their culture is a key part of who they are and why their businesses have thrived.

This Latino Heritage Month, Target is celebrating the Latino community’s cultural influence and contributions by spotlighting these Latino-owned brands and founders and showing that Latino culture is more than meets the eye.

Consider Argentinian immigrants Cecilia Panichelli and Federico Carrillo. A desire to share the culture and flavors of their home country with others is the reason they formed Cocina 54, a frozen empanada business that was founded in 2017.

“We made sure to figure out a way to produce empanadas that still had fresh ingredients and a made-from-scratch recipe,” said Panichelli. “The culture was our biggest inspiration. To create a connection between what people in Argentina eat and what people in America eat, we married various ingredients together to create truly heritage-inspired flavors.”

Cocina 54 is one of more than 80 cross-category products being featured as part of the first-ever Latino Heritage Month product assortment, available now at Target. Imagined and designed by Latino team members, artists and creators, this year’s product assortment features apparel, accessories, beauty and more that highlights themes of family, Latina empowerment and Latino pride.

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, Panichelli and Carrillo share their top tips for success:

1. Do not quit your day job immediately. Hard work makes you nimble and resilient.
2. Talk to other entrepreneurs in the industry and learn from them.
3. Remember to balance family needs and business needs.

Another example of the Latino-owned brands and entrepreneurs featured in the collection is Mike Alfaro, creator of Millennial Lotería, a modern take on the classic Lotería Mexican bingo game. Born and raised in Guatemala City, Guatemala, Alfaro came to the U.S. alone. The first time he shopped in a Target store, he admits it felt “foreign and a bit scary.” Alfaro connected with Target at the LatinXpo, an event that helps Target explore new partnerships with diverse entrepreneurs and businesses.

“I think about going back and seeing my game and it feels like home,” said Alfaro. “And if I had seen products that represented me [when I first immigrated to America], I would have felt less alone.”

Alfaro is achieving his dreams and he wants to encourage others to dream big, too. His tips for entrepreneurs include:

1. Differentiate your product and make sure your consumers know what the difference is at first glance.
2. Take advantage of social media to test out different strategies and messaging.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions from your customers or followers.

For Julissa Prado, her Mexican roots are always a personal and business influence, and it was a fundamental driver behind the creation of her brand, Rizos Curls.

“The inspiration to create Rizos Curls was my own personal [hair] curl journey to learn how to love my natural curl texture,” said Prado. “Latino Heritage Month is every day for me to be honest. So much of the work I do and what motivates my business decisions are rooted in my culture. I am incredibly proud of my roots and family — these are what I love most about my life.”

Prado’s top tips for success include:

1. Everything is negotiable. Challenge outdated rules and don’t be afraid to push back.

2. Make up in creativity what you lack in marketing dollars. Use social media to be a storyteller.

3. Be agile. As a small business you’re able to pivot faster than most larger businesses.

These business owners credit much of their success to their Latino heritage and strive to uplift and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. They demonstrate that a drive for success is fueled by personal experience and cultural values.

To learn more about these and other Latino entrepreneurs, you can visit Target’s Más Que Hub for inspirational moments of success and resilience from creators, team members and business owners through storytelling and art. You can also learn about Target’s investment of more than $1.1 billion in Latino-owned suppliers, media, strategic partnerships and organizations over the past five years to continue uplifting the community not only during Latino Heritage Month, but year-round.