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Take back your spotlight: Don’t let seborrheic dermatitis keep you from shining

2025-02-12T07:11:00

(BPT) – Up to 10 million Americans live with seborrheic dermatitis (seb derm), a chronic inflammatory skin condition with a range of possible symptoms. Whether it’s persistent itch, redness, scaly skin, or flakes on the scalp, face, back, or chest — the physical symptoms may be unpleasant and bothersome. But it’s the mental and psychological impact from those symptoms that can really impact people’s lives.

Grace knows this all too well. She has been living with seb derm since she was 8 years old, and was formally diagnosed at age 12. Grace has regularly experienced redness and peeling around her nose and eyebrows, flakiness on her scalp, and even hypopigmentation around her hairline. Symptoms can come and go, with people with seb derm like Grace experiencing flare-ups which can be triggered by emotional or physical stress, or lack of sleep. Climate can play a role too, with heat and sun exposure also triggering a flare-up. Sometimes, those with seb derm don’t know what triggers their symptoms. They just know that the symptoms come back, sometimes at the most inconvenient moments.

It’s the visibility of seb derm that can be especially challenging for those affected. Like other skin conditions, seborrheic dermatitis is out there in the open for others to see. There’s a stigma wrapped up in those affected areas — with people sometimes believing the disease is caused by poor hygiene or that it is contagious. Neither of these are true. The exact causes are not completely understood, but evidence suggests that seb derm is an inflammatory condition where genetics, individual risk factors, and an overproduction of oil may contribute to the condition. Seb derm is the third most common skin condition for African Americans seen in the dermatology clinic.

Shrinking from the spotlight: How seb derm can impact your life

Seb derm is a common condition, but as far as Grace was concerned, that didn’t matter. She only knew people could see her symptoms and she felt self-conscious about it.

“For years, I have been hyperconscious of my skin,” Grace said. “I was frightened that someone would pick up on what was happening on my face or scalp.”

The condition affected her day-to-day life in a variety of negative ways, including evolving to her feeling smaller, less seen, more isolated. Seb derm caused Grace to avoid drawing attention to herself, and even on days without flare-ups, she remained constantly aware that one could develop at any moment. This awareness influenced everything — from how close Grace allowed people to get to her, to her clothing choices, and even her willingness to be photographed.

“Seborrheic dermatitis made me shrink from the spotlight,” she said.

One of the most problematic aspects of the condition for Grace was how it affected her hair and scalp.

“Like many Black women, my relationship with my hair defined much of my journey to adulthood. I played sports in my school years and as an adult I travel a lot. While many of my peers relied on braided styles to protect their hair from these stressors, I avoided them. Years of managing this condition shaped my daily routines. I developed daily habits from avoiding certain hairstyles that exposed my scalp, steering clear of black clothing, and never leaving the house without moisturizer.”

Like the disease itself, the treatment landscape for seborrheic dermatitis was complicated. Dermatologists and other healthcare professionals often had to prescribe multiple products for use on different parts of their bodies, or for different lengths of time. Hair-bearing areas like the scalp made it difficult to apply topicals like creams, ointments, and gels.

Grace has been through all of that. She tried everything, but nothing worked for long. It was, frankly, exhausting. And then, her dermatology specialist decided it was time for something else.

Grace finally finds relief

Grace’s specialist suggested she try ZORYVE (roflumilast) topical foam, 0.3%, a once-daily, steroid-free, leave-in topical foam that treats seborrheic dermatitis and symptoms like flaking, redness, and itching.

It’s the first foam of its kind, and was studied in clinical trials of 683 people with seborrheic dermatitis, including 458 people who used ZORYVE foam and 225 people who used a vehicle (a foam without the active drug). Results were promising. With ZORYVE, 77% had Clear or Almost Clear skin at 8 weeks compared to 53% who used vehicle. In one of the trials, 63% of 206 people had significant itch relief with ZORYVE at Week 8 versus 41% of 98 people using vehicle.

The most common side effects of ZORYVE include common cold, nausea, and headache.

After speaking with her specialist, Grace decided to give ZORYVE a try. Applying it was easy, and the foam formulation allowed her to target specific spots on her scalp where she is prone to flare-ups.

“ZORYVE doesn’t dampen my hair, which is great because dampness leads to frizz which disrupts my styling products,” Grace said. “Having a product that does not interfere with my hair styling routine is a really big deal.”

Overall, Grace reported her redness and flakiness have decreased. And that spotlight she has shrunk from since she was a child? It’s shining more brightly on her now. And she’s just fine with that.

“I now feel much more in control of my seb derm. Experiencing consistent relief frees up some head space from worrying about how I appear to focusing on how I want to show up in the world. I’m so grateful to finally have something that works for me.”

For more information about seborrheic dermatitis and to find out if ZORYVE is right for you, talk to your doctor and visit https://www.zoryve.com/seb-derm.

Approved Use
ZORYVE foam is a prescription medicine used on the skin (topical) to treat seborrheic dermatitis in adults and children 9 years of age and older.

It is not known if ZORYVE foam is safe and effective in children under 9 years of age.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

ZORYVE is for use on the skin (topical only). Do not use ZORYVE in or on your eyes, mouth, or vagina. Do not use ZORYVE if you have certain liver problems.

Before using ZORYVE, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have liver problems.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if ZORYVE will harm your unborn baby.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if ZORYVE passes into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby during treatment with ZORYVE. Breastfeeding women using ZORYVE should use it on the smallest area of the skin and for the shortest time needed. Do not apply it directly to the nipple or areola to avoid contact with your baby. Avoid direct skin contact of treated areas with your baby if ZORYVE is applied to your chest.

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

What should I avoid while using ZORYVE?
ZORYVE is flammable. Avoid fire, flame, and smoking when applying and right after you apply it.

The most common side effects of ZORYVE include:

  • common cold
  • nausea
  • headache

These are not all of the possible side effects of ZORYVE. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Patient Information for ZORYVE.

© 2025 Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc. All rights reserved.

US­-CRP-­154-­00010 02/2025

Photo of Grace, an actual patient who has taken ZORYVE and is being compensated for her time contributing to this article, courtesy of Arcutis Biotherapeutics.

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The Hidden Dangers: Firefighters and Bladder Cancer Risk

2025-02-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – Everyone recognizes the everyday heroism of firefighters, men and women who run toward danger to save lives and protect our communities. While their bravery carries obvious risks, firefighters also face hidden health dangers.

“Firefighters do not just face physical danger from firefighting, such as burns and injuries from falling structures,” said urologist Dr. Christopher Pieczonka, Chief Executive Officer, Associated Medical Professionals of NY. “We know from research that their professional exposure to diesel exhaust, building materials, asbestos, chemicals and other things puts them at higher risk of developing bladder cancer.”

Why do firefighters have an increased risk of developing bladder cancer?

The smoke and soot firefighters are exposed to contain a toxic mixture of chemicals called carcinogens, which are substances known to cause cancer.

These carcinogens are absorbed into the bloodstream, filtered by the kidneys and excreted through urine. Over time, this can lead to a buildup of carcinogens in the bladder, which can damage the bladder lining and potentially lead to cancer.

“Studies have shown that firefighters have a 9% higher risk of developing cancer and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer compared to the general public, underscoring the need for increased awareness and preventive measures,” Dr. Pieczonka said.

What can firefighters do to prevent bladder cancer?

While fighting fires is inherently risky, there are preventive measures firefighters can take to help protect themselves from bladder cancer while they safeguard our communities:

  • Make sure your health care team knows you have a history of firefighting.
  • Immediately report any symptoms of bladder cancer — like blood in the urine, frequent need to pass urine or pain when passing urine — to your health care team right away.
  • Lower your risk of cancer (and other diseases) by not smoking, eating healthy, getting regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, reducing stress and getting enough sleep.

What treatment options are available for bladder cancer?

If diagnosed with bladder cancer, the good news is that there are treatment options available that can help avoid a cystectomy, or surgical removal of the bladder. This is especially true when it is diagnosed early as non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). NMIBC is bladder cancer that has grown on the lining of the bladder but has not spread past the innermost surface of the bladder to the muscle underneath. It is the most common type of bladder cancer.

A standard first treatment for NMIBC is a medicine called Bacillus Calmette-Guerin, or BCG, which is infused directly into the bladder by a catheter. BCG is a benign bacteria that creates an immune response in the bladder, leading to clearance of the cancer in many patients.

“BCG is an important treatment option in early-stage bladder cancer like NMIBC,” Dr. Pieczonka explained. “However, approximately 30 to 40% of patients do not respond to BCG, and about 50% who initially respond to BCG eventually experience a recurrence of their cancer. These patients are categorized as having BCG-unresponsive NMIBC.”

However, thanks to recent treatment innovations, there are reasons for people with BCG-unresponsive NMIBC to feel hopeful. In 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved an immunotherapy called ANKTIVA® (nogapendekin alfa inbakicept-pmln) that when combined with BCG, restores the immune system’s cancer-fighting activity in patients with BCG-unresponsive NMIBC with carcinoma in situ (CIS), with or without papillary tumors.

In a clinical trial about three out of five patients (62%) had a complete response to ANKTIVA plus BCG, meaning all signs of the cancer disappeared. A similar percentage of patients (58%) had a complete response that lasted for one year or longer, and two out of five patients (40%) continued to remain cancer free after two years of treatment. Side effects patients experienced were mild and temporary, the most common side effects were fatigue, nausea, bladder irritation and diarrhea.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day, not just from the immediate dangers of fires, but also from long-term health risks like NMIBC,” Dr. Pieczonka added. “Since many of these patients will be diagnosed with BCG-unresponsive NMIBC, I’m excited that ANKTIVA provides the possibility of years of cancer-free living while avoiding the life-altering impact of surgical bladder removal.”

ANKTIVA was researched and developed by ImmunityBio. The company is dedicated to supporting the health and safety of firefighters through research, advocacy and education. For more information about ANKTIVA, visit https://anktiva.com.

This article is sponsored by ImmunityBio, Inc.

ANKTIVA Indication and Important Safety Information

Patients treated with ANKTIVA plus BCG may still be at risk for more serious muscle-invasive or metastatic bladder cancer, which can be life threatening if bladder removal is delayed. If you don’t respond to a second round of ANKTIVA with BCG, bladder removal surgery should be considered. Before starting ANKTIVA, tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant as ANKTIVA may cause fetal harm. Common side effects include abnormal laboratory results, increased creatinine, painful urination, blood in urine, frequent urination, urgent need to urinate, urinary tract infections, high potassium, muscle pain, chills, and fever.

For more information, visit Anktiva dot com or call 1-877-ANKTIVA. (1-877-265-8482).

ANK-00173-US January 2025

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A health checklist for your home’s HVAC system

2025-02-12T04:59:00

(BPT) – If you’re like most people, you spend up to 90% of your life indoors. That means you are constantly affected by indoor air quality — including the air in your home. While you may not give much thought to the various parts that make up a home’s HVAC system, each component plays a critical role in enhancing your comfort. Some components are not immediately obvious. For example, an insufficient amount of attic insulation or holes and leaks in attic ductwork can adversely affect your home’s air quality and energy efficiency.

When a home isn’t being optimally heated or cooled, homeowners often blame the heating and cooling equipment. But other parts of the HVAC system may be the root cause of reduced comfort or higher utility bills. It is important to go “beyond the box” and assess the condition and operation of various components that can contribute to an issue.

Assessing your home’s heating and cooling system

Beyond the obvious signs — a home that is persistently too hot or too cold — what are some signs that your home’s HVAC system may not be delivering its full value? Here are seven questions to consider:

  • Have you noticed a musty smell or an increase in allergy symptoms?
  • Have you noticed mold or mildew around the vents?
  • Is there more dust in your home?
  • Does your HVAC system seem to be cycling frequently?
  • Are there hot or cold spots throughout your home?
  • Can you see any damage to visible ductwork?
  • Have you experienced an unusual spike in your home’s energy bills?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, your ductwork may need attention. One way to help protect your indoor environment is to schedule an HVAC System Health Check. A check performed by an Owens Corning Air Care® professional will evaluate 11 key factors. The checklist will provide information to help you properly maintain your home’s air system and alert the technician to trouble spots that need attention.

A ductwork checklist

The HVAC System Health Check brings a “whole home” approach to caring for your home’s indoor air. It includes 11 checkpoints that allow the technician to evaluate your HVAC system — including the ductwork — to determine how well it is functioning and whether attention is needed to any of its components.

These are the 11 measures in the HVAC System Health Check and what the contractor will look for:

  1. System Design — Properly sized ducts and adequate number of returns
  2. Exterior Duct Condition — No holes, sagging or other damage
  3. Interior Duct Condition — Free from excess dust, mold and other particulates
  4. Duct Insulation — Not torn or damaged. Properly installed and sealed.
  5. Sealing Around Joints — Properly sealed to help prevent leakage
  6. Indoor Air Quality — Ducts properly sealed to avoid pulling in contaminants from unconditioned spaces
  7. Attic Insulation — Helps avoid overworking the HVAC system
  8. AC and Furnace Units — Installed and maintained properly, operating efficiently
  9. Air Filter — Properly sized and replaced on a schedule
  10. Output Efficiency — Actual airflow matches capacity of unit
  11. Thermostat — Suits household living patterns

Having an Owens Corning AirCare® professional conduct an HVAC System Health Check may uncover issues that could be affecting your home’s air quality and energy costs. Owens Corning AirCare® contractors take a whole home approach to understanding how your home’s HVAC system components — like ductwork and attic insulation — work as part of the air distribution system, helping them to care for your home environment. To find an AirCare® professional, visit the online locator at https://www.owenscorning.com/en-us/insulation/find-hvac-contractor.

© 2025 Owens Corning.

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Need a new vacuum? These 3 will transform how you clean

2025-02-10T21:07:00

(BPT) – Cleaning your home is a necessary but often tedious part of life. However, it doesn’t have to be. Using the right products and technology can make household cleaning easier and more efficient.

Take robot vacuums, for example. These small but powerful units can keep up with the daily dust, dirt and debris that accumulate on your floors. There are even models that mop as well as vacuum, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time living.

If you’re considering purchasing a robot vacuum, make sure you choose one that reliably meets your needs. As you consider your options, check out three standout robot vacuums available from Feb. 10 that can transform the way you clean.

1. Roborock Saros 10

The Soros 10 vacuum parked in its charging station.

If you have a large home that needs a thorough deep clean, choose the Roborock Saros 10 vacuum, the flagship deep-cleaning expert. If you’re familiar with the company’s S8MaxV Ultra, you can think of the Saros 10 as its upgraded cousin, every detail optimized to provide users an unparalleled cleaning experience.

At just 7.98 centimeters, it’s the thinnest vacuum the company has designed to date, allowing it to glide under furniture. The vacuum also features Roborock’s first RetractSense Navigation System. This reliable feature can detect low spaces to prevent unwanted scratches while navigating complex environments with ease and precision.

Stains won’t stand a chance against the robot’s VibraRise 4.0 Mopping System, which features a denser, more absorbent mop that locks in moisture for effective stain removal. Paired with its next-level suction power (22,000 Pa), you can rest easy knowing you’re getting exceptional levels of cleanliness.

Are you tired of rescuing your robot vacuum from cords? The vacuum’s brand-new VertiBeam Lateral Obstacle Avoidance technology solves this frustrating scenario. The avoidance technology allows the vacuum to clean around unfolded cables and irregular walls or furniture.

Dealing with a tangled vacuum brush will be a thing of the past, thanks to Saros 10’s Zero Tangle Technology. The system uses the DuoDivide Main Brush and a liftable FlexiArm Riser Side Brush to prevent hair from tangling around the vacuum, efficiently channeling debris into the dustbin.

The Roborock SmartPlan 2.0 takes the guesswork out of household cleaning. This mode uses AI to automatically adjust and customize cleaning route settings, suction power and water volume based on environmental data and usage history.

Best of all? Saros 10 is incredibly easy to use even without the mobile app, thanks to its built-in, voice-activated assistant. All you have to say is “Hello, Rocky!” to direct the vacuum with simple preset instructions like starting and stopping cleaning.

February 10-16, you can save $200 on this vacuum.

2. Roborock Saros 10R

Close up of the Soros 10R cleaning a hardwood floor with an electrical cord laying across it.

The Roborock Saros 10R is just as thin as its predecessor and features VertiBeam Lateral Obstacle Avoidance technology, AI-powered Smartplan 2.0 and the Rocky voice-activated assistant. However, this model is the leader in technological innovation, making it ideal for homes with complex layouts and numerous floor obstacles.

The Saros 10R takes performance to the next level with its next-gen StarSight Autonomous System 2.0, equipped with pioneering navigation and obstacle avoidance technology. Using dual-light 3D Time-Of-Flight (ToF) technology and AI-powered RGB cameras, StarSight can detect up to 108 different obstacles — including easily overlooked items such as socks, small toys and loose cables. Paired with its 22-millimeter mop lifting feature, you’ll have a much easier time maintaining a pristine home.

Also, you’ll never have to worry about running out of power while cleaning. The Multifunctional Dock 4.0 estimates the required power for the remaining areas and tasks, charging only the necessary amount instead of fully recharging, allowing the device to resume work promptly. The dock also supports a 2.5-hour fast charge to reduce downtime and increase cleaning efficiency.

Purchase February 10-16 and receive $200 off the Saros 10R.

Soros 10R parked in its charging station.

3. Roborock F25 Series

For a smart, smooth and spotless cleaning experience, check out the Roborock F25 Series. Made by Roborock — a global leader in ultra-intelligent home robotics engineered to simplify daily life.

The line includes four wet-dry vacuum cleaner models — the F25, F25 ALT, F25 ACE and F25 LT — each packed with powerful features that ensure one-stroke wet and dry cleaning and 99% bacteria removal.

The F25 series vacuums provide a lot of power in an incredibly thin form. The flat 12.5 cm design can reach every corner of your home, effortlessly cleaning under low furniture and along edges. Also, the series’ vacuums feature JawScrapers technology. The shark-tooth blades capture hairs for a smooth, clean finish every time, while the tangle-free brush prevents streaks.

You can buy the F25 for 25% off February 10-16.

A Roborock vacuum with type that says

Are you ready for a cleaner home?

You don’t have to clean your home alone. Any of these wet-dry vacuums can simplify your life and relieve the housecleaning burden. The right robot vacuum can be your trusty companion to tackle daily cleaning so you can focus on what truly matters.

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How to level up your cleaning routine in 2025

2025-02-10T10:01:00

(BPT) – If you have struggled with fingerprints all over your stainless steel or stubborn stains on your cooktop, now is the time to take your cleaning routine to the next level and upgrade to products that are right for the job. The products you use matter, and Weiman makes products specifically designed for the unique surfaces you need to clean in your home. And their products don’t just clean they are specially formulated to also protect your surfaces and always leave them looking spectacular.

Here are top products and expert tips to help you upgrade your cleaning habits so all your home’s surfaces aren’t just clean for the moment but will be protected and preserved to look beautiful and be easily maintained year-round.

Keep your stainless steel appliances cleaner for longer

Stainless steel appliances bring a sleek, modern look to any home, but they can quickly collect grease, fingerprints, smudges, watermarks and dust. If your stainless steel never seems to stay spotless for long, using the right cleaner can make all the difference.

For a lasting clean and protection against future messes, the Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner Kit provides everything you need to deliver a streak-free shine while actively repelling fingerprints and smudges. It’s safe to use on kitchen appliances, sinks, range hoods, backsplashes and grills. This three-in-one product ensures easy, long-lasting results:

  • Clean: Easily removes fingerprints, smudges, residue and grease.
  • Shine: Leaves a brilliant streak-free finish with no residue, unlike all-purpose cleaners.
  • Protect: Creates an invisible barrier that resists dust, dirt and fingerprints to keep stainless steel looking beautiful longer.

Make your glass cooktop look like new – without scratches

Glass and ceramic cooktops are sleek and practical for today’s kitchens, but they’re difficult to maintain, especially when dealing with burned-on food, grease and grime. Many all-purpose cleaners and abrasive formulas can scratch these delicate surfaces, making it harder to keep your cooktop looking its best.

For a deep clean without damage, the Weiman Cooktop and Stove Top Cleaner Kit includes everything you need to restore shine and remove tough messes—without scratching:

  • Non-abrasive Cooktop 3-in-1 Cream: Apply directly to the cooktop and use the scrubbing pad to break down grease and grime.
  • Use the scraper tool to remove any remaining stuck on food, water stains or burn rings.
  • Finish by buffing with a paper towel for a polished, streak-free look.

Unlike other cleaners that may be too harsh for glass and ceramic cooktops causing scratches, Weiman’s formula is designed for safe use on major brands, including GE, Whirlpool, Frigidaire and Thermador, helping to maintain the cooktop’s finish.

Pro tip: Always let your cooktop cool completely before cleaning to ensure the best results.

Revive floors for a fresh start

Floors are the foundation of any room’s look and feel, so keeping them clean and well-maintained is essential. Whether you have hardwood, tile, or stone, the right cleaning products help preserve their beauty and longevity.

Hardwood floors add warmth and elegance to a home, but daily foot traffic, kids and pets can cause wear overtime. Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner is specially formulated to clean without streaking, dulling or leaving sticky residue. Its pH-neutral formula is gentle yet effective, making it safe for finished hardwood, engineered hardwood, vinyl and laminate flooring. Plus, it’s EPA Safer Choice Certified, meaning it’s safer to use around kids and pets.

Pro tip: For best results, sweep or dry mop first to remove loose dust and debris before applying cleaner.

Tile and stone floors are durable and easy to maintain, but the right cleaner helps preserve their natural shine. Weiman Stone and Tile Cleaner is specially formulated to clean without leaving streaks or residue and is safe for sealed marble, granite, ceramic and porcelain tile, grout, vinyl and any other non-porous hard surfaces.

Pro tip: Avoid excess water or overly wet mops on stone and tile to prevent staining or discoloration.

Protect Sensitive Stone Countertops

Kitchen and bathroom countertops endure daily messes, from spills to watermarks, making regular maintenance essential. Weiman Granite & Stone 3-In-1 Clean, Polish & Protect not only cleans but also helps resist stains while enhancing the natural luster of sealed stone surfaces. Its pH-neutral, non-acidic formula safely removes watermarks without leaving streaks or residue.

Pro tip: To maintain shine and prevent buildup, wipe countertops daily with a soft cloth and use Weiman Granite & Stone 3-In-1 regularly to keep surfaces looking polished and pristine.

Upgrade from an average all-purpose cleaner to products designed for each surface in your home; because the right cleaning solution doesn’t just clean, it protects and preserves for years to come.

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Anchor Your Home for the Big Game

2025-02-06T02:01:00

(BPT) – The Big Game is almost here and families all across America are getting their homes ready to watch and cheer along. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) wants to remind everyone to anchor their televisions and furniture as they prepare their homes for a watch party.

CPSC’s Anchor It! campaign helps educate parents and caregivers about the dangers of falling TVs and furniture. These incidents can be deadly hidden home hazards. With more injuries and fatalities than most people imagine, CPSC and the Anchor It! campaign are providing simple and inexpensive steps to prevent furniture, TVs and appliances from tipping over.

As you prepare your home for the Big Game, here’s what you need to know about the importance of anchoring your furniture and televisions.

1. Tip-over Incidents by The Numbers

Every year, tip-over incidents land thousands of children in emergency rooms. According to a 2024 report from CPSC, children under the age of 18 suffered 44% of injuries from furniture, TV and appliance tip-over incidents — that’s a child going to the emergency department every 53 minutes.

little girl looking for something in the top drawer of dresser with restraint that keeps the dresser from falling over on her.

In addition, the number of tip-over injuries impacting older adults (those aged 60+) has been on the rise, with emergency-room-treated injuries growing steadily over the past decade from 1,800 in 2013 to 4,300 in 2022.

CPSC works every day to reduce the number of tip-over injuries and fatalities — including enforcing the STURDY Act which strengthens safety standards for all clothing storage furniture like dressers. The measure took effect September 1, 2023, but consumers should still install an anchoring kit — especially if the dresser in your home was manufactured before the new standard went into effect.

2. Incident Disparities Among Certain Communities

Little girl climbing up the open drawers of a dresser that has a large TV on top which is secured straps to the wall so it will not tumble over on her.

Certain groups are impacted more heavily than others — particularly Black, non-Hispanic Americans. Among the tragic 137 reported child deaths from January 2013 through July 2023, Black non-Hispanic children accounted for 32% of those deaths while only accounting for about 14% of the U.S. population of children. And from 2020 to 2022, among the emergency room treated injuries to adults ages 18 years to 59 years, Black non-Hispanic adults accounted for 32% of those injuries despite making up only 13% of the U.S. population.

3. How to Anchor It!

Furniture, television and appliance tip-over incidents can happen to anyone but there are quick and easy steps that you can take to help avoid these situations. Anchoring kits usually cost less than $20 and take less than 20 minutes to install and it is easy to get started.

Mother holding a package to anchors used to secure a dresser to the a wall and her little baby in a car seat in the background.

Begin by purchasing an anchoring kit at your local retailer or online. Make sure to buy enough anchoring kits to put on the furniture, televisions and appliances around your house. You will need a drill, screwdriver and stud finder to ensure that you’re installing the anchors on a sturdy surface.

A man securing a flat screen tv to the back of a desk with straps.

Follow these simple steps to correctly and safely install your anchoring kit:

  • Attach a bracket to the wall
  • Move your furniture close to the wall
  • Attach the other bracket/plate to your furniture or TV
  • Connect the strap to both brackets
  • Tighten the strap and make sure it’s secure
A dresser with open drawers tilted away from the wall and held in place by a device mounted to the wall that does not allow the dresser to fall.

Finally, once your anchoring kit is installed, give it a check and tug on the straps to be confident everything is secure. You can find more detailed instructions on how to safely anchor your appliances at www.anchorit.gov/how-to-anchor/how-to-install-a-kit/.

4. 10 Years of Anchor It!

This year marks 10 years since the start of CPSC’s Anchor It! campaign and since then, the annual rate of tip-over injuries has been cut in half; however, there is still work to do. This summer, CPSC will be launching 10-year-anniversary-oriented activities to remind families of the importance of anchoring furniture in their homes. During your preparation for this year’s Big Game, make the right call and add Anchor It! to your watch party playbook.

About the U.S. CPSC
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products has contributed to a decline in the rate of injuries associated with consumer products over the past 50 years.

Federal law prohibits any person from selling products subject to a Commission-ordered recall or a voluntary recall undertaken in consultation with the CPSC.

For lifesaving information:

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How to boost your savings: Smart strategies to save with intention

2025-02-06T12:21:00

(BPT) – Savings can help meet unexpected expenses, fund short-term spending goals and protect against unanticipated life events. At the same time, leaving too much of your money uninvested can jeopardize long-term financial goals like retirement. Set a goal to be more intentional with your savings by getting clear on your savings goals, ensuring your savings earn a competitive return and putting excess cash to work for your long-term financial goals.

Set savings goals

To determine your personal savings goals, consider your ability to withstand savings shocks and potential income loss, as well as any short-term spending goals such as buying a car or taking a vacation.

  • Step 1: Start by ensuring you have a buffer for unexpected expenses. Aim to have at least $2,000 or about half a month’s household expenses, whichever is greater, set aside in a cash savings account. If you’ve navigated any changes in the last year that impact your income or spending, it’s also worthwhile to revisit that emergency savings goal.
  • Step 2: You might also have additional short-term financial goals. Perhaps you’re planning a home renovation or saving up for a wedding. Money to fund these goals that are a year or two away probably shouldn’t be exposed to much risk of loss and may be best kept in a cash savings account.
  • Step 3: Think about building a more substantial financial safety net that can cover three-to-six months of living expenses. This fund will help you manage financial disruptions, such as job loss or other longer-term income interruptions. This fund might also be used to help with longer-term goals like retirement savings, but such money, however it is invested, should be easily accessible if needed to bridge periods of income loss. Certain accounts like a 401(k) or traditional IRA with limited ability for early withdrawals likely won’t be the best homes for these funds.

Get specific about why you’re saving and create an action plan. Start small and build. Saving something is better than not saving at all, especially when saving in an account with a competitive yield. Yield, or annual competitive yield (APY), indicates how much interest or return you can expect to earn on your savings in a given account over a year. Put simply, the higher the APY, the more your savings can grow.

Smiling mom, dad and little girl sitting on white sectional couch in the living room using a laptop.

Earn what you deserve

Many Americans aren’t getting the return they deserve on their savings. Whether you’re just starting to set aside funds for an emergency or you already have substantial cash saved, make sure you know how much that cash is “earning.” Saving with intention means selecting the best savings vehicle for your personal savings goals. Consider whether you value FDIC insurance, ease of money movement or if you’re simply looking for the highest return on your savings.

Letting your money sit in an average bank savings account might mean your money doesn’t have much chance to grow. The average bank savings account yield as of Dec. 16, 2024, was 0.42% according to the FDIC National Rate and Rate Caps. That means for each $100 you save you’ll earn 42 cents annually. Compare this to a higher yielding account like Vanguard’s Cash Plus Account, which offers a sweep program currently yielding 3.65% APY effective Jan. 6, 2025.*

The cash you keep easily accessible does not need to sit idly on the sidelines. It can work for you in a high-yielding account. Keeping your hard-earned money in a low-yielding account could mean leaving money for short- and long-term goals on the table.

Build on your savings foundation

A well-funded emergency savings account can prevent you from taking on high-interest debt, tapping into a retirement account or turning to other sources that could slow your long-term financial progress.

While crucial for funding short-term financial goals, an intentional savings plan can also create the foundation for a longer-term financial plan. Once you have a solid savings plan in place, consider whether you can move excess cash — beyond the amount needed to meet your identified savings goals — into higher-earning-potential asset classes like stocks and bonds for long-term goals like retirement.

When you’re intentional about your savings goal and seeking out the best home for your savings, even the cash you choose to keep more readily accessible, outside of stock and bond investments, has the opportunity to grow.

Whether your savings goal is to start your first rainy-day fund or shop around for higher returns on your well-funded piggybank, ensure you have clear goals and a plan for reaching them.

All investing is subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest.

Investments in bonds are subject to interest rate, credit, and inflation risk.

*The APY will vary and may change at any time. APY is current as of date of publication. Current APY is available at vanguard.com.

The Vanguard Cash Plus Account is a brokerage account offered by Vanguard Brokerage Services, a division of Vanguard Marketing Corporation, member FINRA and SIPC. Under the Sweep Program, Eligible Balances swept to Program Banks are not securities: They are not covered by SIPC but are eligible for FDIC insurance, subject to applicable limits. Money market funds held in the account are not guaranteed or insured by the FDIC but are securities eligible for SIPC coverage. See the Vanguard Bank Sweep Products Terms of Use and Program Bank list on vanguard.com for more information.

There may be other differences between these products that must be considered prior to investing.

© 2025 The Vanguard Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Color your kitchen: Butter makes everything better

2025-02-06T08:01:00

(BPT) – The psychology of color reveals what most people already know: Color can evoke strong emotions. Members of the design team at Whirlpool Corporation are well versed in how color impacts mood, which is one of the reasons they spent years researching color trends to identify the best possible choice for the KitchenAid® 2025 Color of the Year: Butter.

“The Color of the Year program is specifically led by the Whirlpool Color, Finish, and Material team. We spend years analyzing interior design, social, cultural and aesthetic trends to help determine the new Color of the Year — a decision that is often many years in the process,” said Brittni Pertijs, Design Manager: Color, Material and Finish at Whirlpool Corporation. “Color of the Year focuses on a specific colorway to express the emotions people want to feel that year.”

This year’s choice for Color of the Year: Butter

It’s not just for baking anymore! This modern yellow with a creamy, satin finish imparts a uniquely comforting vibe, with a nostalgic aura all its own.

“As a result of our trend tracking, our team saw yellow continually pop up,” said Pertijs. “Knowing we wanted to tap into comfort and nostalgia, this soft, energizing butter yellow felt like the perfect marriage of all those elements.”

According to a 2024 online Ipsos Survey*, nearly 3 in 4 consumers (72%) agree that a buttery yellow color radiates warmth and comfort, and 67% associate the color with a sense of richness and creaminess — making it a top choice for creating a welcoming atmosphere in the kitchen. More than half (52%) connect the hue with comforting homemade meals, and the same percentage agree that a buttery yellow color transports them back to nostalgic childhood memories. A majority of consumers (64%) also connect this color to the simple pleasures in life.

“The color yellow has the ability to transport you back in time, evoking some of your warmest memories,” added Pertijs. “The color might remind people of kitchens from the 1950s or 1960s that were decorated with a similar soft yellow color. While it echoes past kitchens, Butter feels fresh and modern, leaning into present-day design trends. It’s a classic neutral that will last over the years.”

Design tips: How to make the most of this year’s color

To maximize the warm, comfy vibes of this year’s Color of the Year, you can choose to upgrade to the new KitchenAid® Stand Mixer in Butter. The Butter Stand Mixer works well as a design feature in any style of home, from eclectic and traditional styles to clean and contemporary spaces. It’s also created to fit in perfectly with the latest kitchen designs and finishes.

While some may recall the Majestic Yellow color, “that was developed in 1995, which was reflective of interior trends such as red cherry woods and glossy countertop finishes. The new Butter model represents today’s design trends, in which woods are more natural and countertops are matte and satin,” explained Pertijs.

For anyone looking to accessorize or update their kitchen this year, the Butter Stand Mixer complements various shades of blue well, including periwinkle blue. If you’re looking to mix and match it with other appliances, Butter looks great with the KitchenAid Blue Velvet colorway, or more muted tones like sage green.

Pertijs also recommends pairing the Butter Stand Mixer with the KitchenAid® Bread Bowl attachment: “They go together like bread and butter (pun intended)!”

Make your kitchen more cozy, comforting and welcoming this year with the rich color of Butter. You can learn more about this year’s KitchenAid® Stand Mixer Color of the Year at KitchenAid.com.

*Source: An online Ipsos survey in the US, UK, MX, DE, CA, AUS (n=1,000 per country), general population, 18 years of age and older. Data is nationally representative by age, gender, race/ethnicity and region. The survey was fielded between September 27-October 1, 2024.

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Make mental health a priority in 2025: 5 ways to stay focused beyond resolutions

2025-02-06T00:01:00

(BPT) – As we settle into the new year, many of us are reflecting on our goals we made in January when declaring our New Year’s resolutions.

For many, mental health was likely a key focus, continuing the trend from last year when about 40% of resolutions were aimed at improving mental well-being. However, as the novelty of January fades, it’s easy for even the best intentions to slip. Studies have shown that by February, many people have already abandoned their resolutions.

Rather than letting your commitment to mental health dim, now is the perfect time to renew your focus and keep your mental health a priority.

Whether you’re following through on your resolution to improve your mental well-being or simply seeking to continue your efforts, staying intentional about mental wellness can have lasting benefits for both your emotional and physical health.

Dr. Donald Tavakoli, UnitedHealthcare’s National Medical Director for Behavioral Health, provides the following tips to help you keep your mental health on track throughout the year:

1. Build a supportive network

Surrounding yourself with understanding friends, family and mentors can provide essential emotional support. A strong social network can help prevent feelings of isolation and promote resilience. Research shows that social support plays a crucial role in mental health. Don’t be afraid to reach out and be open with your loved ones.

2. Emphasize sleep

Adequate sleep is fundamental to mental well-being as insufficient sleep may negatively affect emotional regulation and cognitive function. Prioritize restful sleep by establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a calming bedtime routine and optimizing your sleep environment. Proper sleep also benefits your overall well-being.

3. Limit social media:

Studies have linked excessive social media use to a higher risk of depression and anxiety, particularly among young people. It’s important to keep in mind that a person’s social feed often doesn’t reflect their entire life story. Instead, try to embrace the ups and downs of life as normal, focus on the here and now, and invest in your offline relationships.

4. Reach out for professional support

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your primary care physician (PCP). If you don’t have a PCP, now is a great time to establish a relationship with one. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your PCP can provide valuable insights and care, and referrals if needed.

5. Utilize your insurance benefits

You might be surprised to learn that your health insurance plan includes mental health benefits which may cover employee assistance programs, virtual therapy sessions, coaching or digital self-help tools such as Calm Health. These options make it easy to access the support you need in different ways. If you have mild behavioral health concerns, digital self-help tools and virtual coaching can be a great place to begin. If you have any questions or need more details, simply call the number on your insurance card for assistance.

Prioritizing mental health enables you to work toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. By improving your mental well-being, you set the stage for achieving broader goals, including nurturing relationships and fostering personal growth. Make mental health a central focus as you navigate 2025.

For more information about mental health resources, visit UHC.com.

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Safety first: Important tips to keep your kitchen safer for everyone

2025-02-05T13:31:00

(BPT) – Do you consider your kitchen safe? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of reported home fires and home fire injuries, so it’s a good idea to take a good look at your kitchen and review the best practices for keeping everyone in your home protected from these common hazards.

Here are important kitchen safety tips to keep in mind for any household, but especially for those with children, the elderly or other vulnerable adults.

Use the kitchen safety features of your electric range

The NFPA advises that households with electric ranges have a higher risk of cooking fires, so it’s important to read and understand any safety features that your range may provide and to use them consistently.

For example, since 2015, LG electric ranges have a proprietary feature on slide-in and freestanding electric ranges with front-mounted knobs called “Lock Out” or “Control Lock.” This allows users to disable the heating elements when the range is not in use, reducing the risk of accidental activation.

Many electric ranges are also equipped with additional safety features, including a “Burner On” indicator light, an audible alert when a burner is activated, and a hot surface indicator light. These kinds of measures provide multiple layers of protection to promote safe range operation, according to LG, which encourages consumers to review the written instructions and watch this helpful how-to video to make the most of range safety features.

Woman turning a knob on a range in the kitchen while cooking.

Keep stovetops clean and clear

For any kind of range, it’s crucial to keep any potentially flammable items away from the stovetop, including potholders, kitchen towels, paper or plastic products, etc. You can also help prevent grease fires by ensuring that your oven and stovetop are clean and free of any grease, dirt and debris.

Stay in the kitchen when cooking

Cooking, when done properly, is a safe activity. However, unattended cooking remains the leading cause of kitchen fires in the U.S according to the NFPA, so it’s recommended to stay nearby and keep a close watch on your range while you’re cooking. Wear short or close-fitting sleeves. Turn pan handles inward to prevent spills and put them out of reach of children.

Woman using the lower oven on an LG range to bake a rack of ribs.

Keep children and pets away from range knobs

It’s also important to help ensure that pets and children have as little access to range knobs as possible. Baby gates can help to keep very small children and some pets out of the kitchen, but close supervision is always the best safety measure.

Ensure all knobs are in the “off” position after cooking

When you’re done cooking, and especially before leaving the house or going to bed at night, doublecheck that all of the range knobs are turned off.

Avoid placing objects on the range when not in use

Limited counter space can be frustrating, but placing objects — especially those that could be flammable — on your range top when you’re not using it can be a safety hazard, especially if a knob accidentally gets turned on. Try to look for other storage solutions so you’re not tempted to use your cooktop as counter space.

Use kitchen ventilation when cooking

Before things heat up in the kitchen, be sure to turn on your kitchen ventilation hood, fan, or even open a window to circulate the air in your kitchen. When things heat up, using proper ventilation will enhance your indoor air quality and the overall cooking experience by reducing odors, heat and other byproducts of the cooking process.

According to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, when safety tips, advisories or service upgrades are offered, consumers can trust that the manufacturer is presenting the most current information to help you stay safe and have a positive experience while using their product.

Celery green shaker style cabinetry in a kitchen with an LG range and mircowave.

Learn more about LG electric ranges and their safety features at LG.com/us/electric-ranges. LG is ranked the #1 Appliance Brand in the United States, according to the OpenBrand Quarterly Consumer Survey (Units & Dollars, Major Appliances, AHAM Core 6, Q2-Q4 2024).