Regular visits with a medical professional are an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Too often people visit the doctor only when they are ill, as they may not realize just how essential well visits and physical exams are.

Routine checkups are the smartest way for people in all age groups to stay on top of their health, but they can be especially valuable for those age 50 and older. Regular checkups enable physicians to check current health against past visits, ensuring that any anomalies can be investigated and treated efficiently and promptly.

This can make the difference in slowing down the progression of a disease that has already developed or prevent something from becoming a full-fledged issue.

The Mayo Clinic says there are no hard and fast rules about how often seniors should visit health care providers. Those who are in generally good health may only require one medical checkup a year. At this point vital signs will be checked, medications reviewed and lifestyle topics discussed. Doctors may recommend or discuss tests. Patients also can bring up any issues they may be experiencing, however insignificant they may seem. Anything from sleep disturbances to memory loss to unexplained fatigue or pain can be addressed. Sometimes getting everything out in the open and being reassured that theres nothing to worry about can be helpful.

General care and geriatric doctors also are adept at asking questions to get a sense of how patients are faring in the world. This may include topics that seemingly have no relevance to health but can be quite important. A provider may ask about topics such as bathing or dressing. Questions about social interaction or typical routines can paint a better picture of both physical and mental health.

The recommended frequency of doctor visits may change as health issues arise or if follow-up is needed after a treatment plan or injury, according to the caregiver company Home Care Assistance. Some seniors may have to visit a provider once a week or once a month. Doctors, nurses and therapists will design a regimen based on a patients current health needs.

The following are some compelling reasons to be diligent with provider visits.

Frequently, health issues can be silent and not noticed early on by a patient.

Patients will be less likely to forget about important screenings, like mammography, prostate tests, cholesterol tests and more.

Vaccines can be administered, as even adults need certain immunizations to stay healthy.

Patients can discuss potential lifestyle changes, like going on a diet or taking up a new fitness regimen.

It is essential to follow through with health care provider visits, even if they seem redundant. Physicians may detect issues that warrant close observation. Patients are urged to have an open dialogue with their doctors so they understand the reason behind health care visits and expectations in the future.

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Why routine checkups are vital to overall health - Blaine Northern Light

For a variety of reasons many stemming from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic the price of food consumed at home has increased on average 3.4% so far in 2020 compared to last year and are expected to rise an additional 1-2% in 2021, according to the US Department of Agriculture.

At the same time, many Americans have lost jobs, faced salary cuts and been forced to eat at home more in 2020 than last year due to measures designed to slow the spread of COVID-19. As such, they are looking for creative ways to balance home budgets while still placing nutritious food on their tables.

Among the most popular strategies to make ends meet by consumers are reducing their meat costs and practicing nutritional budging to get more for their money, according to Cheryl Auger, associate director of client success at MotivBase, which claims to use artificial-intelligence anthropology to decode, quantify and predict trends, issues and needs through a consumer-led lens.

Less popular but quickly emerging strategies uncovered by MotivBase by gathering and analyzing insights from nearly 477,000 consumers across the continental US on nearly 16,000 topics include favoring local or urban food production, growing their own food and shunning food waste, Auger told attendees during a recent FMI webinar on consumer perceptions of food prices.

Perceiving protein, and especially beef, to be one of the most expensive items on their grocery lists, MotivBase found many consumers are looking to save on protein by buying less popular, and therefore less expensive, cuts of meat, such as pork bellies and ground beef, Auger said.

They also are buying protein in bulk to secure a discount, and in some cases even practicing butchery at home by breaking down larger cuts or quartering whole chickens at home to save money, she added.

Others are turning to plant-based options, but Auger said many see this as a last resort because they like animal protein and are worried that if they reduce or remove it from their diets they would miss key amino acids that they need to stay healthy.

Based on these insights, she recommends retailers look for ways to help consumers save on protein to drive foot traffic in their stores, and urges brands to consider ways to incorporate their products in tighter budgets to potentially win consumer loyalty that will outlast the pandemic.

Recognizing that protein is not the only nutrient needed for a healthy lifestyle, MotivBase found consumers increasingly are practicing what it calls nutritional budgeting or prioritizing purchases to ensure they get enough calories and essential nutrients in their diets, Auger said.

One way they are doing this is by comparing calories per dollar at different retailers and quick service restaurants. They also are turning to subscription services that offer discounts for ugly fruits and vegetables to save money while still getting vitamins.

Some consumers are even taking a more DIY approach and buying seasonal items in bulk and then preserving them at home to maximize a deal while ensuring there is sufficient healthy food in the future, Auger said.

In addition to preserving produce and seasonal items purchased at the store, some more ambitious consumers are growing their own fruit, vegetables, herbs and greens to save money.

This is a trend that was also likely influenced by COVID as many people started their own kind of COVID victory gardens, when they feared that food would be hard to find in stores during the early pantry loading days, Auger said.

For those who arent blessed with a green thumb or dont have access to resource to grow their own food, they are looking to save money by buying local and supporting urban food production, which they perceive as less expensive because it has lower travel costs, Auger explained.

There is a concern that food traveling around the world is pushing prices up, and so the solution is more local food productions. They would like to see cities and other urban spaces start to engage in some of that vertical farming, regenerative agriculture and just make a connection for urban dwellers and their food supply, Auger said, adding this approach also would, in their minds, potentially reduce travel costs, travel time and really increase that connection.

Food waste has been an emerging concern for its environmental impact in recent years, but seeing so many people go hungry during the peak of the pandemic while food was being wasted at retail or the corporate level has raised consumers hackles, Auger said.

They are concerned that grocery stores are throwing vegetables away instead of donating them or discounting them so that others would be able to buy them before they became waste, she explained.

She also noted that this conversation is starting to extend to what consumers see as excessive packaging, which is driving them to buy more in bulk a strategy that Auger says many see as a double whammy because they can save money and the environment.

While many of these trends are early on the adoption curve, Auger says that the pandemic is accelerating consumer awareness and acceptance of them making them issues that retailers, brands and suppliers should consider now.

Read the original here:
Rising food prices push consumers to consider alternative proteins, DIY sourcing and locally grown - FoodNavigator-USA.com

NEW YORK, Dec. 02, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Northeast Business Group on Health (NEBGH) has released Cancer Survivorship: Challenges and Opportunities for Employers, a new guide to help HR and benefits leaders fully understand the complex issues associated with cancer survivorship and to create a workplace that supports people living with cancer and is productive for everyone.

Cancer is a relatively common disease in the U.S. Nearly four in ten men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetime, according to some estimates. Cancer is also on the rise among millennials, who make up the largest generation in the U.S. workforce. At the same time, the number of cancer survivors in the U.S. is increasing steadily. It is estimated that by 2040, the number of cancer survivors in the U.S. will reach 26.1 million, a more than 50% increase compared with 2019.

With a growing number of cancer survivors in the workforce, employers need to better understand and be equipped to help support them, given the challenges these employees may face, said Candice Sherman, CEO of NEBGH. Some people are unable to work due to treatment or the effects of treatment, but many are able to continue to work or to return to work after some period. In fact, most cancer survivors are eager to work because it provides a coping mechanism, enables a sense of purpose and motivation, boosts self-confidence, fosters social support and aids in financial stability.

The guide, Cancer Survivorship: Challenges and Opportunities for Employers, identifies six major categories of challenges that many cancer survivors face and how employers can best support them. These six categories include physical health, mental and social health, wellness and healthy lifestyle, family and friends, finances and work. For each category, the guide highlights the specific challenges survivors may face and provides action steps employers, and in some cases, physicians, can take to help address these challenges. The guide also includes a list of considerations for cancer survivor related issues in light of the current pandemic and other potential health crises in the future.

The guide notes that the benefits of cancer survivors continuing to work or returning to work dont accrue only to them. There are financial and productivity benefits for employers that include a decrease in turnover costs, which can be high. In addition, it can be costly to lose the expertise, contacts and customer relationships employees have built. Cancer survivors generally have higher annual medical costs than employees without cancer because of ongoing monitoring as well as the side effects of treatment or longer-term effects of the disease itself, but supporting survivors work and well-being enhances the value of these healthcare expenditures.

The 48-page guide includes a comprehensive resource section for employers and survivors comprised of the following:

There are encouraging statistics that show an increase in the number of people surviving with cancer but they often dont reveal how survivors are faring physically, mentally, socially or economically. Employers can play a key role in this experience. With more survivors active in the workforce today and in the future, the challenges and opportunities posed by cancer survivorship are important to understand and support, said Patricia Goldsmith, CEO of CancerCare, which contributed to the guide and is leading pilot projects associated with workplace survivorship.

The guide is available free of charge to all employers and the public at large, and can be accessed here.

About Northeast Business Group on Health

NEBGH is an employer-led, multi-stakeholder coalition that empowers members to drive excellence in health and achieve the highest value in healthcare delivery and the consumer experience.NEBGH employer/purchaser members cover 6 million lives in the U.S. and 10 million globally.

Media Contact:Candice Sherman212-252-7440 X 234

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Northeast Business Group on Health Releases Employer Guide to Cancer Survivorship - GlobeNewswire

Dentistry during the pandemic: Is oral health still a priority?

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have devastating health, social and economic consequences and is profoundly affecting the delivery of health services, including dentistry. During the early stages of the public health crisis, the provision of oral care in Europe was significantly curtailed. European governments recommended that dentists postpone elective dental procedures and provide emergency-only dental treatments, both to prevent the spread of infections and to keep dental patients from burdening hospital emergency departments. This approach not only fed the patients fears of contracting the virus when visiting the dentist, but it also seemed to confirm the image of oral care as an optional luxury rather than a necessity.

Neglecting oral health of course predates the COVID-19 era, even though oral conditions are commonplace across the globe. The 2017 Global Burden of Disease Study, which is considered to be the definitive research project on sources of mortality and disability, estimated that oral diseases affect close to 3.5 billion people worldwide, with untreated dental caries (tooth decay) in permanent teeth being the most common health condition.

However, it was only in 2019 that the World Health Organization finally included oral health in the Political Declaration on Universal Health Coverage, eight years after the United Nations High-Level Meeting on Noncommunicable Diseases recognised that oral diseases pose a major health burden for many countries.

The prevalence of oral diseases, which share common factors with other major non-communicable diseases, continues to increase in Europe. This is primarily due to the use of tobacco and alcohol, excessive sugar consumption, and other lifestyle factors, as well as to poor access to oral health services, particularly for weaker socioeconomic groups. Many of these factors have been heightened during the pandemic. Unless we act now, this will lead not only to poorer oral health outcomes but to impaired general health across the board.

The current public health crisis is deepening oral health disparities in access to care. This is due to different factors, including insufficient funding for national health budgets, lack of prevention campaigns aimed at general and specific health targets, and absence of new legislative programmes oriented towards promoting and safeguarding a healthy lifestyle. In addition, we are failing to prioritise fragile and vulnerable population groups that already have limited access to regular check-ups meant to detect oral diseases, as well as early signs of general health issues, such as oral cancer, diabetes, lymphoma and cardiovascular diseases. Not by coincidence, it is exactly these groups with limited access to general and oral healthcare who are also at high risk for COVID-19.

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, dentists were commonly considered among those occupations at the highest risk for COVID-19, due to the potential direct and indirect exposure to infectious materials. However, dentists have been practising strict infection control measures and taking universal precautions for

the last 50 years. There is growing evidence that dentistry remains safe for dental patients, members of the dental team and dentists themselves also under COVID-19 conditions. Effective personal protective equipment is applied to protect both the dental personnel and the patient, and appropriate protocols are followed, which allows the dental team to perform oral care procedures in a safe environment.

In most European countries, dental practices began slowly reopening in spring and summer 2020, with constantly updated guidance on the safety procedures required. International, European and national bodies published various recommendations, sometimes contradictory and wrongly interpreted. In November 2020, the Council of European Dentists published its own statements on the safety of dentistry and on effective dental educations in COVID-19 times, strongly recommending the continuity of oral care provision during the pandemic.

Brushing your teeth is crucial, even during a pandemic, in the view of the Swiss Dental Association (SSO). This approach to oral hygiene is not only to keep your teeth healthy, for example, but parents should also check that their children brush their teeth at least twice a day in a careful manner. All it takes is a soft childrens toothbrush and a Childrens toothpaste containing fluoride, according to the SSO.(1)

Taking Switzerland as a case study, it is interesting to note that dental treatments were approved again there in April 2020 despite WHO recommendations to postpone non-urgent dental treatments because of COVID-19. SSO believes that official recommendations at national, regional and local level are to be applied and as such, the Association of Cantonal Dentists of Switzerland (VKZS) with SSO recommended a comprehensive protection concept that is appropriate to minimise the risk of transmission during dental procedures.

The hygiene measures in place are based on scientific knowledge and SSO President, Dr Jean-Philippe Haesler stressed that the health of your mouth and teeth are important, and play a vital part in the overall state our health. It is therefore essential that the patients can be treated according to their needs to prevent tooth damage. Patients in Switzerland can trust thatdentists professionally implement protective measures before and during treatment. Dental practices in Switzerland are safe.(2)

The information above concerning oral hygiene during a pandemic was compiled by the Editor of Open Access Government during December 2020.

References1)https://www.sso.ch/fileadmin/upload_sso/1_SSO/2_Mediendienst/2_1_D_Medienmitteilungen/2020_Communiques/201013_MM_SSO_D.pdf

2)https://www.sso.ch/fileadmin/upload_sso/1_SSO/2_Mediendienst/2_1_D_Medienmitteilungen/2020_Communiques/200814_MM_SSO_WHO-Empfehlung_D.pdf

The COVID-19 pandemic presents an overarching opportunity to rethink the future of dentistry and address pressing issues faced by the field, rather than going back to business as usual.

Current circumstances provide a chance to reorient oral care towards a less invasive and more preventive approach, an endeavour which tackles the shared risks for oral diseases and other non-communicable, and embraces the non-surgical approach to caries management, as promoted by the Council of European Dentists in our White Paper on prevention. By focusing on the reduction of risk factors and promotion of a healthy lifestyle in community settings, as well as on increasing access to oral health, we propose to shift the dental care paradigm from treatment to prevention. These methods present a major opportunity to expand the access to preventive and restorative care for vulnerable populations, but they must be combined with policy changes, sustainable payment reform, and changes in the education of oral health professionals.

In this context, the Council of European Dentists welcomes what seems to be a change of pace in European health policies, with more importance attributed to health in the European Commissions work, with a bold EU4Health Programme and multiyear budget proposals. These initiatives aim to strengthen national health systems so that they can face epidemics as well as long-term challenges by stimulating disease prevention and health promotion, the digital transformation of health systems and increasing access to healthcare for vulnerable groups. The European Commissioner for Healths approach and priorities to work on urgent health issues such as the fight against cancer, reducing the number of antimicrobial-resistant infections and improving vaccination rates is an important step forward in building s
trong and resilient health systems all over Europe.

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If theres one thing we know about living in the city, its that people always get away with the Im too busy excuse when it comes to working out and taking care of their health. Well, it isnt a complete lie. Traffic, late nights at the office, and stress from work prevent people from getting some me-time in the gym.

The mentality when it comes to living healthy is that we have to warp our schedules around activities that make us healthy. We think about signing up for a gym membership, committing a few hours a week to meal prep, and wake up super early to get a morning jog.

What if we tell you this doesnt have to be the case? In this article, well take a look at how busy city folk, like you and me, can incorporate healthy habits as part of our lifestyles.

If fitness fanatics wont wake up at 5 am to go for a jog, I dont expect the average Joe to do so. Instead, why not go with something feasible, like jogging or cycling to work? If you dont want to get sticky-icky when you arrive, take the public transport in the morning and jog back home when youre done for the day.

Before you think of the but I have my laptop excuse, there are many running backpacks with laptop compartments out there to keep your laptop safe and secure!

If your office building has a shower or you naturally dont sweat a lot, getting some cardio in during your commute is a great way to prime your body for the long day ahead. Youll feel energized and more productive to the point it becomes an addictive sensation.

If youre running or cycling home after work, youll realize you will come home less stressed due to your body releasing endorphins.

You probably werent expecting this, but you need this the most. Did you know that on average, the office worker sits for 15 hours a day? Our necks are in super awkward positions when were hunching over our laptops. The discs in our spine take a huge beating when we sit with poor posture.

To make things worse, a sedentary lifestyle has been associated with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease.

If your office has standing desks, its a good idea to make full use of them. If not, sitting on a medicine ball will force you into watching your posture (you might get a few weird looks at first, but youre just watching out for yourself!).

Personally, I prefer standing up and having a quick walk around the office. It makes my blood circulate better and reduces sleepiness in the process.

Were all guilty of munching on brownies while typing away on our keyboards. If youre wondering why youve developed love handles so suddenly despite just eating 3 meals a day, youve probably found your answer.

Theres nothing wrong with snacking if what we consume is healthy. In fact, this is a great way to prompt your body and mind into following a healthy lifestyle. Best-selling author Charles Duhigg calls this the keystone habit in The Power of Habit.

So what do you do? Replace whatever junk food you have within reach with healthy alternatives like nuts, chickpeas, cut fruit, and greek yogurt. These alternatives arent just delicious, but they are packed with all the nutrients you need to function optimally and keep your mood in check as your hormones will be better regulated!

Excerpt from:
How Busy City Dwellers Can Incorporate Healthy Living in Their Lives - Men's Gear

Green tea is a type of tea that is harvested from the leaves of camellia sinensis plant. It finds its roots in China but now it is also produced and manufactured in other countries such as India, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Turkey. Unlike other teas, green tea does not go through any oxidation while processing camellia sinensis. A brewed green tea is usually green, yellow, or light brown in color and is available in variety of flavors ranging from grass like & toasted to vegetal, steamed, and sweet in the market.

Consumers focus on adopting a healthy lifestyle, which creates an increase in the awareness about the health benefits associated with green tea. These benefits include reduction of weight, cure of headaches & body pain, and decrease in cholesterol levels and the chances of heart attacks. These associated benefits coupled with rise in awareness for adoption of healthy lifestyle are the factors that are expected to fuel the growth of the green tea market in the upcoming years. In addition, the rise in disposable income, convenient & attractive packaging, and increase in number of cafes, online & offline retail stores and food outlets are the other factors anticipated to foster the market growth.

However, the high price of green tea as compared to black tea and the dearth of its awareness in the developing economies are anticipated to restrain the growth of the global green tea market. Nevertheless, the extension of its product portfolio, introduction of innovative flavors, rise in marketing and advertising activities, and growth in health consciousness among the people are anticipated to offer huge growth opportunities for the global green tea market.

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The global green tea market is segmented based on the type, form, distribution channel, and region. Based on type, the market is bifurcated into flavored and unflavored. By form, it is divided into green tea bags, iced green tea, green tea instant mix, loose leafs, capsules, and others. By distribution channel, it is classified into supermarkets/hypermarkets, e-commerce, specialty stores, convenience stores, and others .By region, the green tea market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA.

Some of the prominent key players include Tetley GB Ltd., Tata Global Beverages, AMORE Pacific Corp, Associated British Foods LLC., Nestle S.A., Celestial Seasonings, Cape Natural Tea Products, Finlay Beverages Ltd., Hambleden Herbs, and Hankook Tea.

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Green Tea Market by Type (Flavored and Unflavored), Form (Green Tea Bags, Iced Green Tea, Green Tea Instant Mix, Loose Leafs, Capsules and Others),...

Naturally Slim is a paid, year-long diet program based on modeling the eating habits of people who are as the name of the program suggests naturally slim.

The premise of the program is that it helps replace your unhealthy eating habits with healthier habits that, over the long term, will result in weight loss and weight maintenance. To accomplish this, it incorporates principles of mindful eating.

This article reviews Naturally Slim, including its effectiveness and pros and cons.

BOTTOM LINE: Naturally Slim is a diet program based on the principles of mindful eating. It helps you build new mealtime habits and lose or maintain weight without counting calories or tracking your food intake.

Naturally Slim is a diet program that utilizes the principles of mindful eating. It helps you replace unhealthy eating habits with healthier ones, which may aid weight loss and weight maintenance.

Mindful eating is a strategy that focuses on recognizing your hunger cues, savoring your food, solely focusing on eating during mealtimes, eating slowly, and paying attention to when your body starts signaling that its full (1).

The program requires no special foods, supplements, or supplies, and no calorie or intake tracking. Additionally, it doesnt restrict or limit any foods. Instead, it teaches you how to make healthier choices as you progress through the lessons.

The paid, year-long program is divided into three phases:

While many of these lessons are about mindful eating practices, several also address other facets of a healthy lifestyle, such as nutrition, hydration, exercise, sleep, and stress management.

The program is fully online, so youll need internet access via either a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

In addition to access to the lessons, youll receive access to NSTown, an exclusive online community thats only available to paying members of the Naturally Slim program.

Additionally, you can email Naturally Slim counselors at any time during your program.

Some of the basic mindful eating principles that you may learn to put into practice throughout the Naturally Slim program include:

You can pay for the Naturally Slim program either monthly or annually. Pricing details are as follows:

This is the full price, but there may be special sales or promotions that can help you save money.

Additionally, Naturally Slim has partnered with several large employers to offer their program for free or at a reduced cost to their employees.

Naturally Slim is a year-long diet program based on mindful eating and healthy lifestyle changes. On the program, no foods are off-limits, and theres no tracking required. Its fully online and costs $37.50$50 per month.

Some research supports the effectiveness of Naturally Slim for weight loss.

One large study including over 3,800 people who did the Naturally Slim program for 10 weeks found that women lost about 9 pounds (4 kg) and men about 13 pounds (6 kg) during the duration of the study (2).

Another study looking at Naturally Slim data from over 140,000 participants observed that women and men lost approximately 2% and 2.4% of their body weight over 10 weeks, respectively (3).

Note that this study was conducted by an employee of the company and one of its paid consultants, which may have biased the results.

However, theres also some research to support the use of mindful eating principles for weight loss.

One review of nine studies on mindful eating and weight loss noted that mindful eating interventions resulted in more weight loss than no interventions, as well as that they could result in similar weight loss as a commercial diet program (4).

Two studies on Naturally Slim have shown impressive weight loss results among participants. Still, one of these studies may have been influenced by the companys involvement. Mindful eating also appears to be an effective weight loss strategy.

Naturally Slim may also benefit people with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.

Metabolic syndrome is characterized by high blood pressure, insulin resistance, poor blood sugar control, excessive abdominal fat, and high blood fat levels (5).

People with metabolic syndrome are more likely to have overweight or obesity and be at a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes or heart disease (5).

Still, one study in over 3,800 people on the Naturally Slim program noted that the percentage of women with metabolic syndrome dropped from 43% to 30% after 10 weeks, while the percentage of men with metabolic syndrome dropped from 52% to 26% (2).

Note that this study was conducted by researchers who have since accepted paid positions or consultancies with Naturally Slim, which may have biased the results.

Nevertheless, this data shows that Naturally Slim and mindful eating practices may help improve metabolic syndrome and decrease a persons risk of type 2 diabetes.

Naturally Slim may help reverse metabolic syndrome and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes, although the study that found this may have been influenced by the companys involvement.

The biggest downside of Naturally Slim is its price, which may hinder some people from being able to use the program. Paid annually, its much less expensive but a higher out-of-pocket cost.

However, if youre interested in trying the program, it may be a good idea to try to sign up during a sale. Alternatively, just try a month or two (paid monthly) to see whether its right for you before committing to an annual purchase.

Additionally, theres little information about the long-term weight loss success of Naturally Slim participants. More research should be done on whether people are able to maintain their weight loss after the year-long program is complete.

Naturally Slim can be expensive, especially for the full year of programming. Additionally, little is known about the long-term weight loss success of program participants.

Overall, Naturally Slim is a good option if youre interested in trying a commercial weight loss program. It teaches you mindful eating tools and principles that you can use well into the future to help you make better food decisions without having to track your intake.

While weight loss is not a guarantee, the program appears to help its participants lose weight. Naturally Slim may also help reverse metabolic syndrome and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes.

However, little is known about the long-term weight loss success of Naturally Slim participants.

Naturally Slim is a balanced weight loss program that focuses on the principles of moderation and mindful eating, aiming to help you lose weight and change your eating habits for the long term. It appears to be successful for short-term weight loss as well.

Naturally Slim is a year-long diet program based on the principles of mindful eating and the foundations of a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Theres some evidence to support the success of this diet and mindful eating as a weight loss strategy. However, more long-term follow-up is needed to see whether people can maintain their weight loss after completing the program.

Overall, Naturally Slim is a well-designed diet program that allows you to enjoy all foods in moderation and develop a healthier relationship with food.

Get started with Naturally Slim here.

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Naturally Slim Review: Does It Work and Should You Try It? - Healthline

New dining options offered at the Polo Road Rec Center optimize the facilitys vision to inspire the lifelong pursuit of health and wellness.

Located on Bizzell Street beside the Emerging Technologies Building, Texas A&Ms second recreation center gives students access to a multitude of new dining vendors, including Salata and Shake Smart.

Facility Operations Director Oscee Wheatfall said Dining Services and Rec Sports are aspiring to help students prioritize their health and well-being with these new venues.

These new options aligned with our core values and ended up being a perfect marriage between Dining Services and the Rec Sports organization, Wheatfall said. The intention was to build off each other so students could fuel themselves before or after workouts. Shake Smart is a take on healthy protein shakes and aai bowls for pre- and post-workout, or even in-between for lunch. Salata is also very popular. We call it the Chipotle of salads, where you can make any salad you like.

A&Ms Department of Recreational Sports aims to create an inclusive environment that gives students easy access to health and wellness opportunities.

Our mission is to promote activity, wellness and development by providing high-quality, inclusive experiences and facilities for the students and community of Texas A&M University, Wheatfall said. For us, it is important that we provide different positive avenues for students to keep themselves healthy and have a balanced experience while theyre in college.

Wheatfall said even though some may not be ready to hit the gym right away, having accessible and nutritious food vendors at the new Rec Center is one step in the right direction toward students health journeys.

One of our goals is not only to provide a complete, healthy experience for everybody, but to provide a variety of experiences , Wheatfall said. Some people may not want to walk into the weight room, but they want to start eating healthy. These new options, like Salata and Shake Smart, will give them the opportunity to check off one box toward living a healthy lifestyle.

Nutrition freshman Shelby Leenhouts said she took note of the variety of options the new dining facilities offer, especially the modifications available for those with dietary restrictions.

It's nice that they have an accommodating menu for people who may be vegan, vegetarian or gluten free, Leenhouts said. By implementing these new, healthier options, I believe A&M is working toward having an overall healthier student body. It is also convenient that it is in the new Rec Center because it can bring new people to the Rec or provide those who are already working out a nutritious meal.

Registered dietician at Student Health Services Meghan Windham said nutrition affects students, and these new options allow students to make prominent, healthier choices to fuel themselves appropriately.

I think its wonderful to have healthy options, Windham said. Having some of these options more readily available is a great way to encourage healthy eating on campus. It also gives the students the power to know that there are options, and theyre not limited to one dining hall or facility.

A frequent topic Whindham said she discusses with students at Student Health Services is selecting nourishing food when dining on campus so they stay energized.

We can choose healthy options wherever we go, but it is important that students learn how to make healthy choices, Windham said. Just because something has a healthier name doesnt mean it will necessarily have less calories than another option on campus. However, I do believe that options like Salata and Shake Smart offer more healthy choices to choose from. At other locations on campus, their healthy choices are more limited and less prominent.

Windham said these new options will feasibly amplify students knowledge on nutritional choices.

We have to be a smart consumer and know what were choosing and why, Windham said. These new dining options are a great way in moving forward. Food is a personal choice, and we have to see food as fuel so we can function as a great member on this campus.

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New, nutritious dining options offered at Polo Road Rec Center - Texas A&M The Battalion

University researchers are taking part in an unprecedented research project centered on the biological effects of exercise after receiving a grant from the National Institutes of Health and joining a national consortium of research institutions that includes Stanford University, the University of Florida and Duke University. They are applying Big Data and machine learning techniques, which are methods used to analyze large amounts of often complex data, to a robust molecular map in order to identify the prominent molecules involved in exercise. The long-term goal of modifying those molecules is to develop medical interventions which mimic the effects of exercise in the body.

In 2010, Zhen Yan, director of the Center for Skeletal Muscle Research at the Universitys Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, and other prominent scientists were invited to a roundtable discussion hosted by the NIH to discuss the future of exercise research. The researchers addressed the mutual consensus that regular physical activity is crucial to fighting numerous chronic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity and depression, among others. The scientists at the conference thus agreed on the importance of conducting further research to determine the deeper molecular causes facilitating exercises well-documented benefits.

Exercise seems to be a regular physical activity and seems to be one of the most effective interventions, but the million dollar question is why exercise is so good, Yan said.

In 2016, the NIHs constituent institutions allocated a total of $170 million to form the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium, which consists of multiple educational institutions including the University. MoTrPAC aims to collectively track the molecular mechanisms elicited by exercise in order to better understand how it impacts the health of the bodys tissues and organs.

Identifying and understanding the particular mechanisms instigated by exercise may allow healthcare providers to apply the findings to prescribe more specific exercise recommendations for their patients. Knowing the exact mechanisms could also allow for treatments which imitate the beneficial bodily effects of exercise for those with limited mobility.

If we understand the mechanism, we will not only be able to ... manipulate or employ exercise intervention, but we can also use modern medical science to come up with strategies that mimic exercise for people who cannot for whatever the reason exercise regularly, Yan said.

The Universitys research team is building their studies off results from NIHs phase one trials, which involved constructing a molecular map of biological molecules which have been shown to improve and preserve the health of the bodys tissues and organs. Phase one used animal studies and multi-omics, which is a methodology they used to analyze bulks of molecular data.

The first step of Yan and the team is to take this molecular map from the NIH and filter through it to identify the exact molecular mechanism responsible for exercises health benefits. The team is utilizing machine learning algorithms and Big Data methods to search for the particular molecules that are produced or released into circulation upon performing physical activity.

Our task is to find a specific route in that map that is critical for this journey, Yan said.

Upon narrowing down the search to the anticipated candidate molecules, the next step would be to manipulate their expression in animal models by using gene editing to activate or inactivate the expression of the identified molecules in animals. The physiological response of the animals would be consequently observed to determine if the targeted molecule is indeed responsible for eliciting the physiological responses caused by exercise.

The research team is composed of scientists from multiple disciplines, including genetics, bioinformatics and neuroscience, in attempts to gain an increasingly holistic understanding of the mechanisms responsible for exercises benefits.

Dr. John Lukens, assistant professor and researcher at Universitys Department of Neuroscience and the Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, is focusing on how the presence of exercise strengthens connections in the brain and results in improved cognitive function. He plans to change the expression of the molecular pathways identified by bioinformatics methods and consequently put the animals through cognition tasks.

[Exercise] has also been shown to be really important to prevent things like cognitive decline and things like Alzheimer's disease and that's been appreciated for a long time, but nobody really knows how that works, Lukens said.

Adding a neurological angle to Yans project, Lukens plans to study the animals behavior and quantity of neurons in their brains to gain a deeper understanding of how performing exercise impacts mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.

[We will conduct] post analysis, looking at the brains to see if they have any kind of loss of neurons, neurodegeneration, which is the underlying cause of most known brain disorders or mental diseases, Lukens said.

In addition, combining the effects of regularly performing exercise with stimulation of target molecular pathways will open up new experimental possibilities as factors like changes in hormone levels, oxygen intake and sleep are already induced by the act of exercise alone.

We just dont understand the molecular players involved, but if we can identify those, combining exercise and target pathways, you might have a synergistic effect that can really make a difference in somebodys life, Lukens said.

A challenge which the team expects to encounter is effectively using bioinformatics to sift through NIHs broad molecular dataset in order to identify intended beneficial pathways.

Yan believes that the current pandemic highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle that incorporates exercise.

If anything, the COVID-19 pandemic is a wake-up call that we should really take advantage of a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise to stay healthy and be prepared to deal with the current pandemic and future challenges, Yan said.

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Researchers seek to help prevent and treat disease by studying the effects of exercise - University of Virginia The Cavalier Daily

Best of all, recipes incorporating Olive Oil have shown to be heart healthy. According to the FDA, evidence showsthat usingtwo tablespoons of Extra Virgin Olive Oil in dishes to replace the same amount of saturated fatfound in other ingredientscan helpreduce the risk of coronary heart disease. This is thanks to the high oleic acid content found in Olive Oil, a staple of Mediterranean diet. Why choose EVOO of European origin, specifically Spanish? The country has some of the most meticulous safety food protocols in the world and moreover, Spain is world leader in quality, production, and commercialization of this incredible product.

From your first meal of the day to dinner, European Olive Oils are a crucial ingredient in recipes like:

All recipes courtesy of Olive Oil World Tour and using European Extra Virgin Olive Oil.For more information, please visit the official website athttps://www.oliveoilworldtour.com.

About the Olive Oil World TourIn 2018, Olive Oils from Spain and the European Union launched a three-year campaign for cookingenthusiasts and world travelers to join the Mediterranean diet and the European healthy lifestylethrough the "Olive Oil World Tour." This promotional initiative, carried out incollaboration with the E.U., is a multichannel campaign with outdoor advertising, social platforms, andan online presence developed under the motto "Olive Oil Makes a Tastier World." The Olive Oil WorldTour has significant global reach since it includes informative actions in the main airports, train stations,and cruise terminals in Europe, the U.S.A. and Asia.Learn more athttps://www.oliveoilworldtour.com/and follow onFacebook, andInstagram.

About Olive Oils from SpainOlive Oils from Spain is the promotional brand of the Spanish Olive Oil Interprofessional, a nonprofitorganization formed by all the representative associations of the Spanish olive oil sector, and whosemain objective is the dissemination of the healthy product internationally. With the "Olive Oil WorldTour" campaign as a tool, it has proposed to make the world a place with more flavor and urgesconsumers to join the European way of life: "Join the European Healthy Lifestyle with Olive Oils from Spain."

SOURCE Olive Oils from Spain

https://www.oliveoilworldtour.com/

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Eat Heart Healthy in the New Year with European Olive Oils - PRNewswire

RWJBarnabas Health announced several of its facilities have been recognized by The American Heart Association (AHA)/American Stroke Association for cardiac and stroke care earning a spot on the 2020 Get With The Guidelines awards list in the stroke, heart failure and resuscitation categories.

The awards recognize each hospitals commitment to ensuring stroke and heart failure patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence.

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in Somerville, Jersey City Medical Center in Jersey City and Robert Wood JohnsonUniversity Hospital in New Brunswick were honored with the Stroke Gold Plus award with Honor Roll mention.

Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch was recognized with the Heart Failure Gold Plus award and Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark was recognized with the Resuscitation Gold Audit award.

The RWJBarnabas Health facilities earned the Get with The Guidelines awards by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the diagnosis and treatment of heart failure and stroke patients at a set level for a designated period. These measures include evaluation of the proper use of medications and other stroke and heart treatments aligned with the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery and reducing death and disability for patients. As part of the criteria, before discharge, patients were required to receive education on managing their overall health, get a follow-up visit scheduled, as well as other care transition interventions.

The recognition from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association is a testament and dedication to the interdisciplinary teamwork throughout RWJBarnabas Health, said James Andrews, MHL, senior vice president, Cardiac and Neurological Services, RWJBarnabas Health. The framework developed to achieve these awards allow us to track and measure quality, exceed evidenced-based clinical guidelines, and provide superior patient outcomes. Receiving this recognition reflects positively on the clinicians and staff that made it happen as well as the overall mission of RWJBarnabas Health to deliver quality and compassionate care for each patient we serve. The teams in Somerset, Jersey City, New Brunswick, Monmouth, Newark and across our medical group allow the health system as a whole to truly stand behind that mission.

According to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, stroke is the No. 5 cause of death, a leading cause of adult disability in the United States andmore than 6.5 million adults in the United States are living with heart failure. On average, someone in the U.S. suffers a stroke every 40 seconds and nearly 795,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year.However, both heart failure patients and stroke patients can lead a full, enjoyable life when their conditions are managed with proper medications or devices and with healthy lifestyle changes.

For more information or to make an appointment with one of New Jerseys top cardiac specialists, visit rwjbh.org/heart.

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RWJBarnabas Health facilities recognized with Get With The Guidelines awards for treatment of stroke and heart failure patients - centraljersey.com

As many as 71 million Americans have gained weight during the coronavirus pandemic, and over half feel down about the way they now look, according to a new survey.

Sixty-three percent of people queried said that healthy lifestyle habits are hard to keep in the midst of COVID-19, 52% have been feeling depressed about the way they look, and nearly 3 in 5 are on a mission to lose weight, according to the survey commissioned by Boston-based Gelesis.

The biotechnology company partnered with research firm Kelton Global to conduct an online survey of 1,012 adults from Oct. 26 to Nov. 3. Kelton then used Census figures to determine quotas to ensure the sample was a reliable snapshot of the U.S. population, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1%.

While our survey has found Americans have been motivated to develop healthier habits amidst the pandemic, it has also brought to light how many Americans who want to lose weight continue to struggle, said Elaine Chiquette, Gelesis chief scientific officer.

Close to half 47% of people who gained weight said their self-esteem had decreased since March, the survey found, and as many as 40 million Americans who are trying to lose weight would give up social media if it meant losing 10 pounds.

Nearly a quarter 22% of those trying to lose weight said they would give up sex if they could lose 10 pounds, according to the survey.

Just dont take away their Netflix. In a year with limited entertainment or social options, only 17% said they would be willing to give up their favorite TV or streaming service.

One of the things that maintains healthy mood is social interaction, so its completely understandable that isolation influences our emotions, which has an impact on our health behaviors, including weight management, said Dr. Lisa Smith, director of Boston Universitys Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders.

People who are depressed because theyve spent months away from family, friends and co-workers not surprisingly may turn to food, which offers an immediate but short-lived boost, Smith said, so they often go to another round of food, and another, and another. And the weight they gain only makes them feel more depressed.

Seventy-one percent of those surveyed particularly women said their weight impacts how they feel about their identity.

One of the best antidotes is exercise, which, unlike food, not only helps control weight but also gives a long-lasting boost to mood, Smith said.

Exercise has a direct, biochemical effect, she said. Within 20 to 30 minutes, you feel better. And your mood stays elevated. Its one of the best anti-depressants.

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New survey finds 71 million Americans have gained weight during the coronavirus pandemic - Boston Herald

Life doesnt have to end just because youre getting older. In fact, your golden years can be one of the most enjoyable times of your lifeall you have to do is keep a positive mindset and lead a healthy lifestyle. The more you focus on your physical and mental health, the better off youll be in the long run. Here are some tips for seniors trying to stay healthy as they age. If you follow this advice, your next few years may be the best yet.

It might not be a wise idea to try CrossFit if youre over the recommended age, or if your doctor doesnt think its a good idea. However, not all hope is lost. You can still develop a senior-friendly exercise routine thatll get your blood pumping. There are some low impact workouts that can help you burn calories without putting you in danger.

Pro tip:Some older adults experience incontinence issues. These problems are more likely to occur during exercise. If you experience problems with your bladder, there are somekeys to exercising with urinary incontinencethat can make the process smoother.

Its not a good idea for anyone to eat an enormous number of calories every day. This is incredibly important for the senior population to remember. Eating high-fat foods or meals with a lot of salt will increase your blood pressure and cause health issues. For this reason, think about cooking nutritious meals in the kitchen. There is plenty of healthy food that is also delicious. Consider speaking to your physician, children, or friend group for some healthy recipes if you dont know where to get started.

Another tip for seniors trying to stay healthy as they age is to keep an active social life. Being healthy isnt all about your body. You also need to prioritize your mental health if you want to lead a successful life. Keep in contact with your friends. Also, remember that its never too late to pick up a new hobby. There are a lot of groups targeted toward seniors who are looking for something to fill their time. Do your research and find an activity that works for you.

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LEHI, Utah, Dec. 14, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Young Living, the global leader in essential oils, today announced it has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2020 honor by The Salt Lake Tribune. Young Living was selected among hundreds of applicants due to its commitment to employees and company culture, especially during a year filled with uncertainties.

"It has been a challenging year for everyone, but I'm extremely proud of the work our team has put in to maintaining our great culture," said Mary Young, co-founder and CEO of Young Living. "We've become a family over the years and as we pivoted business operations due to COVID-19, we wanted to make sure each and every employee was taken care of as best possible. It is because of this culture that our team has done some of their best work despite this global crisis and continues to uplift and enhance lives around the world."

Young Living's company vision is focused on creating a healthy home for each of us, a healthy world for all of us. This mantra feeds the award-winning employee experience program that has guided Young Living through the COVID-19 pandemic. In an unprecedented year, Young Living was one of the first Utah-based companies to implement a work-from-home policy that transitioned 95% of the company's employees to work remotely. Young Living acted fast to help maintain everyone's health and safety while providing a meaningful working environment in a critical time.

Young Living made it a priority to address the physical and mental health of all employees as they shifted to a new remote workforce. Initiatives included the following:

The Top Workplaces list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC. The anonymous survey uniquely measures 15 drivers of engaged cultures that are critical to the success of any organization: including alignment, execution, and connection, just to name a few.

"In times of great change, it is more important than ever to maintain a connection among employees," said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. "When you give your employees a voice, you come together to navigate challenges and shape your path forward based on real-time insights into what works best for your organization. The Top Workplaces program can be that positive outcome your company can rally around in the coming months to celebrate leadership and the importance of maintaining an employee-focused culture, even during challenging times."

About Young Living Essential OilsYoung Living Essential Oils, LC, based in Lehi, Utah, is the world leader in essential oils, offering the highest quality oil-infused products available. Young Living takes its industry leadership seriously, setting the standard with its proprietary Seed to Seal quality commitment, which involves three critical pillars: Sourcing, Science, and Standards. These guiding principles help Young Living protect the planet and provide pure, authentic products that its members can feel confident about using and sharing with friends and family. Young Living's productswhich all come from corporate-owned farms, partner farms, and Seed to Seal-certified suppliersnot only support a healthy lifestyle but also provide opportunities for over 6 million global members to find a sense of purpose and whole-life wellness by aligning their work with their values and passions. For more information, visit YoungLiving.com, follow @youngliving on Instagram, or like us on Facebook.

SOURCE Young Living Essential Oils

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The Salt Lake Tribune Names Young Living a Winner of the Utah Top Workplaces 2020 Award - PRNewswire

Life 101, a life skills and self-care management course developed and taught by UCI pharmaceutical sciences professor Dr. Mahtab Jafari, will be offered for students at all 10 UC campuses through cross-campus enrollment beginning Jan. 4.

The two-unit course, also known as Pharmaceutical Sciences 42, has been taught at UCI each winter quarter since 2013. While required for pharmaceutical sciences students, it is open as an elective to students of all majors. According to the syllabus,[T]he only prerequisite for this course is to have an enthusiasm to learn, to question and to change.

I learned that our students dont have the time to learn the skills to cope with their stress, so lets teach them these skills, Dr. Jafari said in a UCI TEDx presentation during the inaugural year of the course. In my mind, these skills are as important, or maybe more important, than teaching physics, chemistry, biology and calculus.

The course content of Life 101 largely revolves around strategies to ensure that students maintain their physical and emotional health, including such topics as stress management, self-care, nutrition and managing personal finances. Some specific modules explain the importance of acknowledging and coping with mental health struggles, establishing a consistent sleep schedule and using the natural environment as a source of tranquility.

Considering that stress levels and poor lifestyle choices in college students are increasing at an alarmingly fast pace, this course may serve as an effective educational tool to teach healthy lifestyle choices, promote students well-being and help them to recognize and manage their stress, the course syllabus states.

While stress remains prevalent in college and university settings, the COVID-19 pandemic in particular has contributed to a significant rise in overall mental health struggles among students. A study conducted between March and May by the Healthy Minds Network in conjunction with the American Association of Colleges found that 66% of college students report that they have had more stressful financial situations due to the pandemic while access to mental health resources has become more difficult. It also found that the prevalence of depression has risen by 5.2% compared to fall 2019.

With this in mind, Dr. Jafari continues to ensure that Life 101 adapts to the circumstances, implementing more detailed course content to address mental and emotional health in the upcoming quarter of the course.

I look at this course as a constant work in progress, Dr. Jafari said. For instance, because of the pandemic, I will include more information on emotional health in the winter quarter.

Created with the ultimate goal to combat the stress of balancing schoolwork and life, the upcoming quarter of Life 101 will offer an asynchronous option, allowing for convenient access adapted to students schedules.

I was inspired to make changes for myself as well as to become a better person, a student who completed the inaugural Life 101 course said in an anonymous submitted comment. It changed my life and my perceptions in a positive way.

Over 400 UCI students have enrolled to take Life 101 this winter quarter. UC students can continue to enroll in the course through the deadline of Jan. 22.

Ariana Keshishian is a City News Intern for the 2020 fall quarter. She can be reached at ankeshis@uci.edu.

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Life Management Course To Be Offered Throughout All UC Campuses - New University

A nutritious diet is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. When its part of a health regimen that includes routine exercise, a healthy diet thats rich in fruits and vegetables can help people reduce their risk for various illnesses, including chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

Many adults have known about the value of fruits and vegetables since they were youngsters and their parents repeatedly told them how important it was to eat healthy foods. Despite those early lessons, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that less than 10 percent of adults and adolescents eat enough fruits and vegetables. Thats unfortunate, as fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins that benefit the body in myriad ways.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine notes that vitamin deficiency occurs when people do not get enough of certain vitamins. Recognizing the many functions vitamins serve may compel adults and adolescents to include more fruits and vegetables in their diets.

Vitamin A: The USNLM notes that vitamin A helps form and maintain healthy teeth, bones, soft tissue, mucous membranes, and skin. According to the World Health Organization, vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of preventable blindness in children and increases the risk of disease and death from severe infections.

Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 helps form red blood cells and maintain brain function. Though the National Institutes of Health notes that isolated vitamin B6 deficiency is uncommon, a deficiency has been associated with various conditions, including a weakened immune system and dermatitis cheilitis, a condition marked by scaling on the lips and cracks at the corners of the mouth.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that promotes healthy teeth and gums, helps the body absorb iron and maintains healthy tissue. In addition, vitamin C plays an integral role in helping wounds heal. Vitamin C deficiency impairs bone function, and Merck notes that in children that impairment can cause bone lesions and contribute to poor bone growth.

Vitamin D: The USNLM notes that 10 to 15 minutes of sunshine three times per week is enough to produce the bodys vitamin D requirement for people at most latitudes. Its hard to rely on food to supply ample vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium that is necessary for the development and maintenance of healthy teeth and bones.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E helps the body form red blood cells and utilize vitamin K. Green, leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli are good sources of vitamin E. The Office of Dietary Supplements notes that a vitamin E deficiency can cause nerve and muscle damage, potentially leading to muscle weakness and vision problems.

Vitamin K: Vitamin K helps to make certain proteins that are needed for blood clotting and the building of bones. The T.H. Chan School of Public Health at Harvard notes that the main type of vitamin K is found in green leafy vegetables like collard greens, kale and spinach. Vitamin K deficiency is rare, but it can lead to bleeding, hemorrhaging or osteoporosis.

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The Role Different Vitamins Play In Health - Riverbank News

ZURICH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Etisalat Digital and dizmo, the Interface of ThingsTM, are today announcing at GITEX Technology Week in Dubai a technology partnership to strengthen offerings in the area of Connected Health@Home. On show are propositions addressing Wellness & Healthy Lifestyle and Better Accessing Medical Services in the connected home.

These experiences are enabled by the dizmo interactive orchestration platform. With these propositions, dizmo is blurring the boundary between the smart home and telemedicine tools, enabling the capture of valuable lifestyle data while using your home environment as a platform to drive engagement with health data and care objectives.

To realize the vision of healthcare as an essential element of a connected home, Etisalat Digital is pleased to announce its partnership with dizmo, a unifying usability software, to orchestrate health data in meaningful ways - thereby helping providers bring about positive behaviour change in their patients to better manage lifestyle associated diseases.

HealthTech enablers are considered paramount for population health as the smart, connected home moves into the mainstream as the logical place for community care.

Health@Home is a segment currently served by apps simply connecting not meaningfully connecting, said Luigi Mantellassi, CEO of dizmo. Meaningfully connecting at the last mile means finding usefulness, driving engagement with your health data, facilitating the continuity of care, and smart living helper tools for a more healthy lifestyle.

Etisalat Digitals healthcare unit envisions a new era in home-based healthcare as societies evolve to further empower patients in being a key decision-maker when it comes to their own health, said Abdulla Ebrahim Al Ahmed, Senior Vice President/Government Sales, Etisalat. Providing the necessary technology tools to healthcare organizations to extend it to their patient population to achieve this endeavour will remain the focus of Etisalat Digital in the year to come.

You can see the solution on show at the Dubai World Trade Center on the Healthcare Section Etisalat booth (1st floor, Stand Z A10 Zabeel Hall 1).

About Etisalat Digital

Etisalat Digital is the business unit of Etisalat driving digital transformation by enabling enterprises and governments become smarter through the use of the latest technologies like Cloud, Cyber Security, Internet of Things (IoT), Omnichannel, Artificial Intelligence, and Big Data & Analytics. Etisalat Digital brings together the best industry digital experts, assets and platforms with a unique service and operating model. From its offices in UAE and KSA, Etisalat Digital provides end-to-end digital vertical propositions to enable smarter developments, education, healthcare, transportation and a smarter economy. It has a successful track record in delivering large digital projects and solutions by providing comprehensive services in consultancy, business modeling, solutions design, program management, execution, delivery and post-implementation support and operation services.

About dizmo:

Dizmo is a smart front-end software platform that solves the problems of microservices integration and transforms the way we interact with data. Based in Zurich, Switzerland, dizmos vision is to enable the transition from technology-literate people to people-literate technology. Its unique patented technology concepts are used by customers worldwide in all industry segments. The core management team has well over 100 years' experience as professionals in the IT industry, across various parts of the globe and has successfully founded several start-ups. For more information, visit: http://www.dizmo.com.

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dizmo and Etisalat Digital Envision Connected Health@Home at Gitex 2020 - Business Wire

While breast cancer is usually considered a disease that only affects women, anyone with breast cells and tissue can be diagnosed with breast cancer, males included. Even so, male breast cancer is rare.

"This isn't a disease that's 'just for women.' Patients often don't realize this which can, unfortunately, lead to delays in diagnosis," says Abisola Olulade, MD, a family medicine physician at Sharp Rees-Stealy Downtown in San Diego, California. "In the United States, male breast cancer represents between 0.5% and 1.0% of all breast cancers diagnosed each year. This means that about one out of every 100 breast cancers diagnosed in the United States is found in a man."

In this article we'll discuss the most common forms of male breast cancers, its symptoms, and potential risk factors.

Male breast cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the breast. Common forms of male breast cancer include:

Unfortunately, doctors are still unsure of the exact causes of breast cancer, though genetics and increased levels of estrogen may be risk factors.

In particular, increased estrogen is associated with conditions like liver disease, obesity, and certain hormone therapies like anti-androgen therapy, says Monisha Bhanote, MD, a triple board-certified physician and cytopathology specialist in Jacksonville Beach, FL. where she runs her own private practice.

"Hereditary causes may include BRCA2 mutation carriers, PTEN mutation (Cowden syndrome), and CHEK2 mutation carriers," says Bhanote

BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BReast CAncer genes 1 and 2) are genes that are related to breast cancer risk. While everyone has both BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, some people inherit a gene mutation in one or both of these genes. This mutation increases the risk of developing breast cancer.

"Men with BRCA mutations are recommended to have annual screening," says Bhanote. "Examination for any masses, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling/puckering on a daily basis will

be helpful."

Additional factors that may increase a person's risk are medications such as antidepressants, marijuana, and radiation from cancer treatment.

Male breast cancer spreads in the same way that female breast cancer spreads, through the lymphatics and blood vessels. An estimated 520 men will die from breast cancer this year.

Signs and symptoms of male breast cancer can include:

While finding a lump on one or both of your breasts can be alarming, finding a lump doesn't necessarily mean that you have breast cancer. It could be gynecomastia or enlarged breast tissue.

Though gynecomastia has many causes, liver disease and drugs or medications that contain high doses of testosterone account for about 25% of gynecomastia cases, according to Harvard Men's Health Watch.

Gynecomastia is often benign and resolves on its own. That being said, it's still a good idea to see your doctor if you notice any lumps or changes, especially if you're experiencing pain or discomfort.

Because men are less likely to receive a mammogram, it's important to learn how to perform a male self-breast examination. As a patient, it's imperative to become familiar with your body so you can advocate for yourself and notice when changes occur. Here's a quick step-by-step guide on how to self-check your breasts at home:

You can also check your breasts while lying down. To do this, set a pillow underneath your right shoulder and bend your right arm over your head. Use the fingertips of your left hand to check all areas of your breast and armpit. Once you're finished, switch the pillow to your left shoulder and repeat this process.

If you're uncomfortable doing a self-breast examination, or you fear that you're not doing it correctly, ask your physician to perform a clinical breast exam for you. Depending on how the examination goes, your physician may order a mammogram, an ultrasound, or an MRI.

If you're diagnosed with male breast cancer, your treatment plan will depend on how far the cancer has spread. Practicing monthly self-breast exams, in addition to receiving a breast examination by your physician, could improve your chances of detecting breast abnormalities early. Early detection is the key to successful treatment.

Possible treatments for male breast cancer include:

Although researchers can't pinpoint the causes of breast cancer in men, they have found a few risk factors.

Risk factors that may lead to developing male breast cancer include:

"Unfortunately, there isn't anything you can do to prevent male breast cancer," says Nicholas Jones, MD, FACS. "However, you can lower your risks by being active, and limiting your alcohol consumption."

In addition, avoiding hormonal supplements, such as sexual performance enhancement supplements, may help to prevent male breast cancer. According to a 2019 study, the use of hormonal male enhancement supplements can lead to the higher levels of androgens, which may cause the growth of tumors.

Though the likelihood of developing male breast cancer is low, it's important to pay attention to your body. If you notice any changes in your skin color, new rashes, lumps, or bumps, you should seek medical help right away.

"There isn't a great screening tool for men," Jones adds. "The best action is to know your body, live a healthy lifestyle and if you notice anything out of the norm, visit your doctor. Specifically for male breast cancer, any change involving the nipple may be a sign that there is an underlying cancer."

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Yes, men can get breast cancer here are the symptoms to watch for - Insider - INSIDER

Are you looking for a way to grab some quality time with your young loved ones? On Saturday, December 12th, a unique opportunity for family-friendly fun presents itself at The Health Museum of Houston.

The Health Museum of Houston starts its seasonal event Make A HOLIDAY of It! Teddy Bear Bike Ride promptly at 10 AM. This interactive event includes an itinerary of teddy bear care, bike riding, and a picnic in the park.

To explain further, children are invited to perform medical examinations on the provided plush animals. These teddy bears will be included with the purchase of tickets, which allows kids to take home a precious memory from this fun day. This activity serves a greater purpose; to teach kids how healthy lifestyle habits affect their bodies and overall well-being.

A scenic bike ride on rideshare bikes will follow, leading participants to a sunny picnic in the park. Facilitators of the event provide and pre-package the lunches.

This event wraps up around 1 PM; however, participants can visit The Health Museum of Houstons current exhibits on their way out. The exhibit, Gear Up: The Science of Bikes, explores the evolution of the bicycle, from the creation of its design to how theyve been used throughout history.

Outbreak: Epidemics in a Connected World is also open for viewing! This exhibit explores pandemic risks and infectious diseases within the 21st century, specifically focusing on outbreaks in the Greater Houston area over the past 100 years.

To purchase tickets, please visit The Health Museums website. Registration closes on Thursday, December 10th at 2 PM, so make sure to sign up ahead of time. Ticket options start at $56, covering two picnic lunches, BCycle passes, museum admission fees, and one teddy bear.

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While there is some evidence that people who are living with HIV and other chronic illnesses may have an increased risk of experiencing severe symptoms and death from Covid-19 this young Limpopo woman who was born with HIV says she is doing everything in her power to ensure that she takes her medication daily.

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Twenty year-old Vhuhwavho Nevhungoni from rural Thathe-Vondo village in Limpopo outside Thohoyandou was born HIV positive.

She has faced the virus since her childhood and mastered the difficult process of sticking to her medications and taking good care of herself.

While growing up I made it my point that I had to take my medications all the times to avoid being sick and lead a healthy lifestyle, she said.

It is a huge responsibility for a young person to always remember that you have to take your medications on time almost every day, but I was able to do it and now I am happy and healthy, she said.

When South Africa went into hard-country wide lockdown earlier this year to combat the spread of Covid-19, Nevhungoni feared that she would not be able to receive her medication which she collects on monthly basis.

But thanks to her medical aid she had been able to receive her ARVs without a hitch.

At first I was worried that I will not be able to receive my medication due to the lockdown but to my surprise I was able to receive them with ease, said Nevhungoni.

As I am on a medical aid, I usually collect my medication at a private pharmacy every-month, so even during the hard lockdown they made sure that they kept my package safe, until I went to collect, she said.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) a record of 26 million people are on antiretroviral treatment.

There is a growing problem however in 2020 with the number of people who are not being treated believed to top 12 million.

That gap is jeopardising our goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Covid-19 has had a profound effect on people living with HIV, as it has for many diseases, said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom.

The increased risk has been compounded by disruptions to treatment for people living with HIV.

Sticking to Covid-19 precautions

Nevhungoni said despite taking her ARVs, she has been sticking to all Covid-19 precautions to ensure that she is protected from the pandemic.

I always follow all the safety cautions that everyone else is following such as wearing of mask, sanitizing all the times and mostly keeping to myself. I also try to limit the number of friends whom I spend time with, she said.

Though she managed to overcome various forms of stigma and discrimination while growing up in Vhembe, Nevhungoni said she feels that something still needs to be done to educate rural people about issues pertaining to HIV/Aids.

There is a fear of being judged by your peers and people in rural villages in particular and this stops young people from being open about their HIV status.

The in her third year studying Social Work student at the University of Pretoria, Nevhungoni said that she feels free to live openly with her HIV status in urban areas in Gauteng as she believes that in those areas people have better understanding when it comes to HIV/Aids than in rural communities in Vhembe.

In rural villages some people are judgemental when it comes to people who are living with HIV hence it is not easy for one to disclose their HIV status. Some children in rural villages have been called witches because of their HIV status and have found it difficult during school trips to take medications in front of everyone in fear of being judged, said Nevhungoni.

Nevhungoni also believes a lack of support groups for people living with HIV in rural areas compared to those living in urban areas is a major impediment to this sort of transparency.

In Vhembe something needs to be done to broaden the support, which might go a long way in ending stigma in rural areas. Some people end up defaulting on their medications if they are not in support groups, as they become depressed, she said.

Living without her mother

After she losing her mother to HIV when she was only two years old, Nevhungoni was legally adopted by the late Sue Anne Cook, who is the founder of Vhutshilo Mountain school which looks after HIV/Aids orphans in Vhembe to ensure their growth.

According to UNAIDS, modelling of the pandemic long terms impact on the HIV responses shows that there could be an estimated 123 000 to 293 000 additional new HIV infections and 69 000 to 148 000 additional AIDS-related deaths between 2020-2022.

The collective failure to invest sufficiently in comprehensive, rights based, people-centred HIV responses has come at a terrible price. Implementing just the most politically palatable programmes will not turn the tide against Covid-19 or end AIDS, said Winnie Byanyima, UNAIDS Executive Director.

-Health-e News.

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#WorldAIDSDay2020 : This HIV-Positive woman is leading a healthy lifestyle | Health-e - Health-e News