Sun Life to donate additional $1 million toward global COVID-19 relief efforts
In line with World Health Day, the donation will address health inequities, to build a fairer, healthier world for everyone
TORONTO, April 7, 2021 /CNW/ - Today marks World Health Day. As the pressures of the pandemic continue, this year's theme – to build a fairer, healthier world for everyone – takes on new meaning. In response, Sun Life is announcing an additional $1 million to help ongoing global COVID-19 relief efforts and address health inequities.
This support is in addition to Sun Life's $1 million donation announced in March 2020. Those funds focused on health care, elder care and addressing food insecurity needs in markets where Sun Life operates: Asia, Canada and the United States.
"Sun Life remains focused on assisting our communities, particularly those most impacted by the pandemic," said Kevin Strain, President, Sun Life. "COVID-19 has deepened inequities around the world, and our donation directly supports organizations helping those who need it the most. We believe supporting the needs and well-being of the most vulnerable is key to a healthy and sustainable future for our communities."
Helping Canadians live healthier lives - support for COVID-19
In Canada, a portion of the donation will go toward supporting public health units. This funding will assist with the vaccine rollout in various communities, with an emphasis on seniors and clinics supporting Indigenous populations. The remainder will help organizations address the mental health and food insecurity crisis.
Sun Life has taken actionable steps over the past year to promote the safety and well-being of Clients, employees, advisors and our communities. These include offering relevant and timely COVID-19 resources, many of which are available on Lumino Health, Canada's largest, free digital health network. Sun Life helped Clients with credit counselling and debt management support through a partnership with the Credit Counselling Society, a non-profit firm. And, Sun Life donated more than $13.7 million to community organizations globally in 2020, including donating more than $4.5 million towards diabetes awareness, prevention and care, increasing our overall total to $38 million since 2012.
As outlined in Sun Life's 2020 Sustainability Report, actions in support of COVID-19 relief efforts directly align with our Sustainability Plan and purpose.
About Sun Life Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing insurance, wealth and asset management solutions to individual and corporate Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of December 31, 2020, Sun Life had total assets under management of $1,247 billion. For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com.
Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.
Note to editors: All figures in Canadian dollars
SOURCE Sun Life Financial Inc.
Teva Canada Amplifies Commitment to Canadian Caregivers - Introduces new resources to support and improve mental health of Caregivers
April 6, 2021 – National Caregiver Day Event – TODAY AT 12:00 PM EDT
Free Live Virtual Class at 12:00 PM EDT today for caregivers focuses on importance of being resilient and how to access it from within; register via Eventbrite at: TevaCanada.com
New Life Effects Website supports patients with chronic conditions and their caregivers with powerful stories and content written by people with chronic health conditions offering "real-life" perspective;
30-Day Unlimited Trial of NEW Huddol Journeys App provides personal guidance from the world's best wellness experts in a variety of topics relevant to caregiving.
TORONTO, April 6, 2021 /CNW/ - Extending its ongoing commitment to caregivers through the Caregiver-Friendly Pharmacy (CFP) program, and recognizing the significant toll COVID-19 has had on the caregiver community over the past year, Teva Canada today unveiled new resources and programming to support the mental health challenges caregivers often experience.
Teva Canada today unveiled new resources and programming to support the mental health challenges caregivers often experience.
Introduced on National Caregiver Day, these added resources support and acknowledge the important role that Canada's eight million caregivers play in providing unpaid care to a family member or friend with a physical, cognitive or mental health condition.
"A year into the pandemic, continued uncertainty and isolation have disrupted all our normal routines and made caregivers particularly vulnerable to mental health issues as they take on more responsibilities to keep loved ones safe. The need to provide tools and resources to help caregivers cope has never been greater," says Teva Canada General Manager, Christine Poulin. "Faced with their own stresses as front-line workers, pharmacists continue to be a vital connection to caregivers, identifying and helping those who are overwhelmed and struggling. With the addition of new tools through the Caregiver-Friendly Pharmacy Program, pharmacists will be able to help caregivers cope better with the challenges of caring for those with chronic conditions and leverage their own resilience."
Recent Teva research1 indicates 43 per cent of the global population identify themselves as caregivers, yet one-in-four (24 per cent) do not have enough support to properly care for the individual they care for. A further 22 per cent of respondents say they have altered their daily routine as a result of becoming a caregiver and 32 per cent say caring has taken a large emotional toll on them. A Statistics Canada report released in November 2020, also indicated that senior caregivers reported a number of unmet caregiving needs with 33 per cent indicating they would like information and advice and 29 per cent requiring help from a medical professional.2
Building Resiliency with Life Coach Robert Pardi
On National Caregiver Day, Teva Canada is pleased to be partnering with Huddol (Canada's largest online caregiver support network that connects caregivers with peer and expert guidance) on a live virtual class – today at 12:00 PM EDT – with Journeys Mentor and former caregiver Robert Pardi as he conducts an introduction to the Moving Positively Through Change: Resilience Awakens 7-day Journey experience. Registration for the live class is free and available through Eventbrite at: TevaCanada.com
Pardi, a former investment banker and caregiver for 11 years to his wife who passed from breast cancer in 2009, chose to embrace change and transformed his life path to become a Life Coach to caregivers. Today he shares his philosophy on leveraging resilience and how to confront life challenges to use life instead of being used by life to empower other caregivers.
"Resilience is a skill that lies dormant in many of us, but one that we all have," he says. "Beneath it is the ability to confront change and adapt to it in a positive way. This is especially important for caregivers to be able to broaden their perspective about their situation and see the opportunity in caregiving and not necessarily the loss or changes in their loved one or circumstances."
Get 30 Days of Unlimited Access Free
Starting in the month of April, Teva Canada is offering free 30-day unlimited access to Huddol's NEW Journeys Appfeaturing Pardi's guided 7-day Journey, Moving Positively Through Change: Resilience Awakens. Each half-hour Journey session helps participants navigate the feelings and internal conflicts of being a caregiver and provides the tools and information to help them better relate to their new realities and find greater meaning and purpose in their life.
"The pandemic has reminded us that life is fragile, particularly when we are holding a life in our hands and caring for a family member or friend who is vulnerable. What we are creating through Huddol Journeys is a digital space that empowers caregivers to thrive in adversity – a prescription for human transformation," said Huddol CEO Mark Stolow.
To access the Teva Canada sponsored free 30-day trial of the Huddol Journeys App and the Moving Positively Through Change: Resilience Awakens Journey, visit: journeys.huddol.com/teva-cares
Life Effects - The Most Powerful Words of All
Teva Canada's NEW Life Effects website provides resources written by real people navigating life with one or more chronic conditions. Their shared stories offer information, insight, and inspiration about the lived experience. This advice is especially meaningful and inspiring to patients and their caregivers, recognizing that words from someone who's been there are the most powerful of all.
With personal insights and guidance from over 35 contributors living with a chronic condition, people can explore a mix of articles, videos, and podcasts on a variety of conditions including anxiety; asthma; cancer; cardiovascular disease; caregiving; COPD; depression; migraine and MS. The stories are vetted by medical experts prior to publishing and provide unique perspectives from patients around the world with new stories published monthly.
"There is such value and shared sense of empathy to be able to tap into real life stories – whether it be for comfort and understanding or advice and practical tips for living with the condition," says Lori Mann, Associate Director, Marketing Communications for Teva Canada. "Life Effects gives patients and their caregivers a sense of community and comfort as they relate to, and learn from, the experiences of people who have actually been there."
The content on Life Effects is non-promotional and avoids mention of treatment or classes of treatment. Stories are vetted by medical experts prior to publishing and provide the personal perspectives of patients and caregivers from around the world. With the launch in Canada, Life Effects content is now available in 12 markets (in 11 different languages). Though some details may not be relevant to the Canadian healthcare system, the contributors' lived experiences, feelings and perspectives are relevant and universal no matter where a person lives.
Watch the inspirational Notes of Hope video – Reminding us of the power of shared experience: TevaCanada.com
About the Teva Canada Caregiver-Friendly Pharmacy
In 2019 Teva Canada launched the Caregiver Friendly Pharmacy (CFP) program – a national program that supports caregivers with online tools and resources and empowers pharmacists to identify and engage with caregivers.
The CFP includes:
Accredited training for pharmacy teams (over 2,500 pharmacists have completed the continuing education);
Downloadable Online Caregiver resources used by over a quarter of a million Canadians including:
Additional resources include emotive videos of caregiver stories and a cancer podcast series on living with cancer.
All of Teva Canada's downloadable resources for caregivers can be found at: TevaCanada.com/Caregivers
About Teva Canada
Teva Canada, headquartered in Toronto, has provided affordable healthcare solutions to Canadians for over 50 years, building their trust one prescription at a time with now more than 192,0003 prescriptions filled each day with our products, representing 1 of every 8 generic prescriptions in Canada4. Originally Novopharm Limited, Teva Canada specializes in the development, production, and marketing of high-quality generic prescription pharmaceuticals and, through our branded division, focuses on a diverse line of speciality and biopharmaceutical products in a variety of therapeutic areas such as central nervous system (CNS), respiratory, oncology and rheumatology. Teva Canada's commitment to helping improve the lives of Canadians also extends to the Teva Caregiver program – providing tools and resources for Canadians navigating the care journey. Teva Canada employs more than 900 professionals, had sales of nearly $1.1 billion5 in 2020, and markets more than 3606 products in over 840 SKUs4 in Canada. We are a proud subsidiary of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Learn more at www.tevacanada.com.
About Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (NYSE and TASE: TEVA) has been developing and producing medicines to improve people's lives for more than a century. We are a global leader in generic and specialty medicines with a portfolio consisting of over 3,500 products in nearly every therapeutic area. Around 200 million people around the world take a Teva medicine every day, and are served by one of the largest and most complex supply chains in the pharmaceutical industry. Along with our established presence in generics, we have significant innovative research and operations supporting our growing portfolio of specialty and biopharmaceutical products. Learn more at www.tevapharm.com.
HealthPRO Celebrates its 25th Anniversary with National Art Contest Honouring Healthcare Heroes
The Winning Artist Will Have the Opportunity to Direct a $25,000 Monetary Donation to the Healthcare Facility of Their Choice
MISSISSAUGA, ON, April 6, 2021 /CNW/ - This year, HealthPRO is celebrating its 25-year anniversary as Canada's group contracting provider for healthcare.
HealthPRO Celebrates its 25th Anniversary with the #FacesofCanadianHealthcare Art Contest Honouring Healthcare Heroes
"We're incredibly proud of the work our team has delivered over the last 25 years, and we look forward to taking on the next set of challenges the sector presents to us," said Renato Discenza, President and CEO, HealthPRO. "As we reflect on this tremendous milestone, know that we remain committed to helping our members by continuing to invest in our two main strengths: Knowledge and Trust."
Since 1996, HealthPRO has strategically leveraged the buying power and market influence of its members – which now number more than 1,300 healthcare facilities – to reduce the cost of high-quality products and services while helping maintain assurance of supply. As of 2021, the company has returned more than $740 million to the Canadian healthcare system in the form of patronage dividends.
"In thinking of an appropriate way to commemorate our anniversary, we felt there was no better, or timely approach than honouring the work of Canada's healthcare heroes," said Discenza. "That's why we're launching our #FacesofCanadianHealthcare art contest; we want to celebrate the tireless efforts of Canada's dedicated healthcare professionals who make an incredible difference in the lives of patients and their families."
As part of the contest, artists from across Canada, professional or amateur, are invited to commemorate the vital work of Canada's healthcare professionals: nurses, doctors, pharmacists, administrators, custodians, procurement professionals and beyond. Eligible entry mediums include photography, painting, drawing, and digital art.
The winning artist will have the opportunity to direct a $25,000 monetary donation to a publicly funded Canadian healthcare organization of their choice, to help make a different in their local community. Additionally, the top three finalists will each personally receive a cash prize.
Additional information, including the contest's rules, regulations, and submission deadlines, can be found at www.facesofcanadianhealthcare.com.
About HealthPRO
HealthPRO is Canada's group contracting provider for healthcare. We put decades of knowledge and the purchasing volumes of more than 1,300-member healthcare facilities across Canada to work. Our members count on us to reduce the cost of products and services they use, improve patient safety, help maintain assurance of supply and pursue new ideas and innovations. The outcome is unprecedented buying power and market influence for Canadian healthcare facilities. For more information, please visit www.healthprocanada.com.
SOURCE HealthPRO Procurement Services Inc.
National Caregiver Day: New Study Shows COVID-19 Increasing Demands on Canadian Caregivers
Carers Canada launches a national campaign to showcase Canadian's experiences in caregiving and organizations that provide essential supports from coast to coast
TORONTO, April 6, 2021 /CNW/ - Today, on National Caregiver Day, we recognize the eight million Canadians who are caring for their family and friends. Bringing awareness to the crucial role caregivers' play, while shedding light on their unique challenges and unmet needs. This year, supporting Canadian caregivers is more important than ever as the COVID-19 pandemic has created additional pressures, negatively jeopardizing their physical, emotional and financial health.
A new study released by EMD Serono as part of their Embracing Carers™ Initiative, called The Carer Well-Being Indexexplores the impact of COVID-19 on the unpaid caregiver community in Canada. The index reveals some alarming trends affecting Canadian caregivers including rising demands, increased responsibilities, inequities and an overall toll on their health and well-being.
"At EMD Serono, we understand the crucial role caregivers play in our healthcare system and to the patients we serve," said Manuel Zafra, Managing Director, EMD Serono Canada. "The aim of this study, and the global Embracing Carers Initiative, is to identify challenges and work with key partners to identify and action solutions for this community."
Overall, the study showed that COVID-19 has increased demands and pressures on unpaid caregivers, causing unprecedented burnout (70%), with a 12 per cent growth in those taking on caregiver duties and the average time Canadians spend caregiving increasing by 4.8 hours a week.
Canadian Carers are Feeling More Burnt Out than Ever
71% of respondents said they are feeling more burnt out than ever, with 70% indicating worsening mental/emotional health, 55% with worsening financial health and 51% indicating worsening physical health
Canadian carers have taken on greater responsibilities surrounding emotional support, managing technology, homecare, and advocating for their loved one, with a 42% increase in homecare responsibilities due to the pandemic
64% of caregivers in Canada say that their primary responsibility is to manage doctors' appointments
Female Carers Disproportionately Affected
Female carers and those caring for someone with an ongoing cognitive condition are facing unprecedented challenges
61% of Canadian carers surveyed identified as female with 71% saying that being a carer negatively impacts their emotional/mental health
Two-thirds (65%) of female respondents say that being a carer has had a negative impact on their financial health (vs. 56% average Canadian carer)
"This study shows that the pandemic has placed added demands and strain, which is taking a toll on their health and well-being," said Nadine Henningsen, Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Home Care and Carers Canada. "Our experiences from COVID-19 have shown that governments must expand capacity in home-based long-term care services and access to primary health care so that caregivers receive the supports they need from our healthcare system."
To help address these challenges, Carers Canada launched a national campaign called "Experiences in Caregiving" to showcase Canadians' experiences in caregiving, the impact of COVID-19 has had on caregivers, and organizations that provide essential supports to caregivers. More than 25 caregivers across Canada will be sharing what they think, how they feel and what they do during their caregiving journeys. For more information and join in the national conversation, please visit carerscanada.ca.
*Part of EMD Serono's global Embracing Carers Initiative, the Carer Well-Being Index surveyed 9,044 caregivers across 12 countries, including 755 unpaid carers in Canada. The Embracing Carers Initiative was created to recognize and raise awareness of the crucial role of informal carers and develop solutions collaboratively with global carer organizations.
About EMD Serono, Canada EMD Serono, Canada, is the Canadian biopharmaceutical business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. EMD Serono, Canada has integrated cutting-edge science, innovative products and devices, and industry-leading patient support and access programs. EMD Serono, Canada has deep expertise in neurology, fertility and endocrinology, as well as a robust pipeline of potential therapies in neurology, oncology, immunology and immuno-oncology. Today, EMD Serono, Canada has more than 100 employees across Canada with headquarters in Mississauga, Ontario.
About Embracing Carers™ Embracing Carers™ is a global initiative led by Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, operating as EMD Serono, EMD Millipore, and EMD Performance Materials in the United States and Canada. It is a collaboration with leading caregiver organizations around the world designed to increase awareness, discussion, and action about the often-overlooked needs of caregivers. Given that caregivers need support and often do not know where to turn for help, Embracing Carers™ was created to fill that void.
About Carers Canada Carers Canada is a national coalition dedicated to increasing recognition and support for caregivers. Through collaborative engagement, members work to build awareness and recognition of the role of caregivers and the challenges they face. Carers Canada is a priority program of the Canadian Home Care Association (CHCA). www.carerscanada.ca.
About National Caregiver Day The first Tuesday of April has been unanimously adopted by the Members of Parliament of Canada to recognize the importance of the 'invisible' unpaid work. Interchangeably known as National Caregiver Day, this day marks the beginning of our formal recognition of caregivers and the valuable contribution they make to care recipients, our communities and our economy.
SOURCE EMD Serono, Canada
No Graphene In Our Masks
LONGUEUIL, QC, April 6, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ - You may already be aware that Health Canada has issued a recall on disposable masks containing a material made of tiny particles called graphene. The agency is advising people not to wear masks with graphene or biomass graphene because its preliminary assessment of the available research suggests the particles cause early lung toxicity in animals, though the risks to humans are not yet known.
As a manufacturer, it is our duty to inform and reassure you that all our masks are made with safe materials and therefore do notcontain graphene.
About Supermax Healthcare Canada
Founded in 2004, Supermax Healthcare Canada is a division of the Supermax Group based in Berhad, Malaysia. Supermax Corp in the second biggest disposable glove manufacturer worldwide. Supermax's brand is a synonym of quality.
SOURCE Supermax Healthcare Canada Inc.
Ready to Start Working Out Again? How to Choose the Right Gym for Your Needs
It seems more and more individuals are trying to focus on living a healthier lifestyle. As a natural component to any change in overall wellbeing, it is common to include a fitness regimen into the new lifestyle plan. Whether you are a newbie to the gym scene or trying to get back into the exercise and fitness game, selecting the right fitness plan for you can be filled with both excitement and challenges. For many, a new health routine will include joining a gym or fitness center. If you are ready to start working out again, here are some things to consider when choosing the perfect gym for you.
Find Your "Why?"
The first question you must answer before beginning any kind of fitness program is "Why are you joining a gym?" The "why" will help narrow down the kind of fitness programs to look for, equipment that you want to be able to use, and other important factors. Is a nutrition bar or on-site access to a nutritionist important to you? Are you looking for an overall change in well-being or is bodybuilding more your speed? Do you prefer classes or working out on your own? These and many other questions are ones to consider as you look at your fitness center options.
Make a Fitness Routine
Now that you know what you are wanting to accomplish, let's take a moment and explore some of the types of experiences you can find at many gyms and fitness centers across the nation. Approaching a fitness routine is a unique experience. Many gyms offer a variety of equipment ranging from treadmills and stationary bicycles to stair climbers and rowing machines. Just about every gym will also include free-weights and strength training machines.
These are all great, but sometimes you may want a different type of experience. Many of the larger gyms—and even some of the smaller ones—will offer classes ranging from Zumba and Step classes to cycling and stretching.
If you have issues with accountability, many gyms will also offer access to a personal trainer, fitness coach, or nutritionist. There are even some locations that offer 24-hour access for when your hours don't line up with the "normal" world.
Explore Other Fitness Centers
Of course, there are other ways to get into shape that don't include a standard gym. Some fitness centers focus on creating a mind-body connection. Yoga, Barre classes, and other dance-based or mind/body/spirit-based centers offer great ways to get in shape and lead a healthier, more active lifestyle. Just like a traditional gym, these health centers are as varied as the individuals that frequent them. Most will offer classes for all fitness levels and have great instructors available to provide one-on-one instruction and guidance as you continue on your journey.
There are many ways to get into shape. As you explore the different options, remember that the path that is right for you might be found in an unusual place. Try different options until you find the one that you enjoy the most and makes you feel tired yet refreshed at the end of your session. Remember, if you enjoy it, you'll keep doing it, and that leads to a healthier, more active life.
4 Natural Ways to Improve Your Energy Levels Daily
As an adult, it's not uncommon to experience bouts of exhaustion and fatigue. If you're in a stressful season at your job or in the early years of child-rearing, you're probably working on all cylinders. However, there are ways that you can naturally improve your energy levels on a daily basis. Your body is a finely designed machine. When you figure out the right ways to treat it, it will perform at optimal levels. Consider some of the natural ways you can improve your energy levels throughout each day.
Improve the Quality of Your Sleep
In order to properly rejuvenate your body, it's important to get enough sleep each night. Know how much sleep your body needs in order to thrive. If your schedule limits the amount of time you're able to sleep each night, it's also important to focus on the quality of the sleep you're actually getting. invest in a great mattress that helps you get deep sleep. Develop anighttime routine that helps you to relax before bedtime. Eliminate your electronics an hour before bed. As you try rhythms and routines to help yourself sleep deeper, you'll be able to improve the quality of your sleep even if you're unable to improve the quantity of sleep time.
Take a Supplement
Vitamin B12 is known for its ability to boost a person's energy levels. You can also take a daily multivitamin that promises to increase energy levels. Take a closer look at plant-based capsules like Kratom capsules for a natural energy boost. Do your research in order to find ingredients that can benefit your body's ability to become alert and energized. For some people, a lack of a specific vitamin causes a depletion of energy. If you're anemic, you're going to have a different experience than someone who is vitamin D-deficient.
Watch Your Diet
Try not to eat a really big breakfast. Instead, take a closer look at low- glycemic foods to give you the energy you need to get through the day. If you're eating a heavy meal filled with pancakes, hash browns and other carbohydrates, your body needs the energy to digest all of that. That takes energy away from your ability to focus, be alert and remain productive throughout the day.
Drink Water
Drink half of your body weight in ounces on a daily basis. The human body requires water to thrive. If you're dehydrated, you'll become fatigued, irritated and unproductive. Instead of reaching for that second cup of coffee in the afternoon, fill up your tumbler with water.
In perfecting the right routine for your body, you'll have to experiment to figure out what works. Try to document the process to take note of what works and what doesn't. Just because a specific supplement doesn't work doesn't mean you should quit all supplements. Keep trying different options to see what gives you the results you’re looking for. As you track how you feel, stick with what works and build on it with the right habits. Before long, you'll be able to improve your energy levels from a natural perspective to sustain your body throughout the day.
2021 Canada Gairdner Awards Recognize World-Renowned Scientists for Transformative Contributions to Research Impacting Human Health
TORONTO, April 7, 2021 /CNW/ - The Gairdner Foundation is pleased to announce the 2021 Canada Gairdner Award laureates, recognizing some of the world's most significant biomedical research and discoveries. During these challenging times, we believe it is important to celebrate scientists and innovators from around the world and commend them for their tireless efforts to conduct research that impacts human health.
2021 Canada Gairdner International Award The four 2021 Canada Gairdner International Award laureates are recognized for seminal discoveries or contributions to biomedical science:
Dr. Daniel J. Drucker, MD Professor, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto; Senior Scientist, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health, Toronto, Ontario
Dr. Joel Francis Habener, MD Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Director, Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
Dr. Jens Juul Holst, MD, DMSc Professor, Department of Biomedical Sciences and group leader, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
Awarded "For research on glucagon-like peptides that has led to major advances in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, obesity and intestinal disorders."
The Work: The independent and collaborative work of Daniel Drucker, Joel Habener and Jens Holst enhanced our understanding of how our gastrointestinal organs function and created new classes of drugs for the treatment of metabolic disorders, specifically type 2 diabetes, obesity and short bowel syndrome.
Drucker, Habener and Holst discovered hormones called glucagon-like peptides (GLP-1 and -2) which control the levels of Insulin and glucagon which work together to maintain healthy sugar levels. They elucidated their biology and physiological function and played critical roles in the design and testing of therapies informed by their initial and subsequent discoveries
These three scientists are awarded for a combined body of work with significant impact on the field of diabetes and short bowel syndrome but are also recognized for their individual discoveries that underpin the translational results.
In the 1970s, Holst recorded intestinal surgery patients experiencing insulin spikes and drops in blood sugar after meals, leading him to conclude that an incretin, subsequently identified as GLP-1, along with insulin and glucagon was responsible for the glucose-induced gastrointestinal stimulation of insulin secretion that caused the changes in blood sugar levels.
Around the same time, Habener used pancreatic cells from anglerfish to demonstrate that glucagon and somatostatin were encoded in the pancreatic cells as larger, precursor hormones. During additional mammal studies he discovered two new hormones related to glucagon which are known as GLP-1 and GLP-2.
Drucker, a fellow in Habener's lab in the 1980s, outlined the processing of proglucagon and the biology of GLP-1 action on insulin-producing cells, which led to the development of multiple types of treatments for type 2 diabetes. Together with Holst, working mostly in people, they showed that when food is ingested, GLP-1 is released into the bloodstream from cells in the gut increasing insulin release and suppressing glucagon.
Work from their labs and others led to the development of novel therapeutics to control insulin secretion in Type 2 diabetes based on understanding the action of GLP1 and its metabolism by the enzyme, DPP4, leading directly to the development of the DPP-4 inhibitors for diabetes therapy.
Drucker discovered the first actions of GLP-2 as a gut growth factor and both Drucker and Holst extensively characterized its mechanisms of action in animals and humans. The first GLP-2 analogue (teduglutide) was approved for clinical use in the treatment of short bowel syndrome in 2012.
The Impact: Together, Drucker, Habener and Holst made major contributions to endocrinology and changed the treatment of metabolic and gastrointestinal diseases. Their work is both basic and translational, a true example of bench to bedside research.
GLP-1 therapies have been effective in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and more recently, as a treatment of obesity to reduce appetite. Drucker and Holst's research on the function of GLP-2 and its role as an intestinal growth factor helped develop treatments for short bowel disease, decreasing the need for feeding tubes to provide nutrition in children and adults with the condition.
To date, over 100 million people with type 2 diabetes have been treated with a GLP-1 analogue or a DPP-4 inhibitor.
Dr. Mary-Claire King, PhD American Cancer Society Professor; Department of Medicine and Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA; Affiliate Member, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
Awarded "For transforming cancer genetics and oncology with the discovery of inherited susceptibility to breast cancer due to mutation of the BRCA1 gene."
The Work: Dr. King's first breakthrough was in molecular evolution and population genetics. Her research as a PhD student suggested that the differences between humans and chimpanzees are due to a small number of mutations affecting gene regulation and the timing of gene expression, rather than accumulation of differences in protein-coding sequences.
King's work evolved to focus on proving the existence of inherited susceptibility to breast cancer and identifying BRCA1 as the first gene responsible for it. Her group studied families in which many women developed breast or ovarian cancer. First, based on mathematical modeling, King hypothesized that severe inherited mutations in a single gene could be responsible for breast cancer in some women. At the time, this hypothesis was considered far-fetched and very unlikely.
Then based on this hypothesis, King proved the gene's existence by mapping the still-hypothetical gene to a specific chromosomal location. She named the gene BRCA1. The idea was no longer far-fetched and an international "race" of four years ensued to clone the gene.
After the gene was cloned, King and her colleagues developed and deployed next-generation sequencing strategies to identify mutations in BRCA1 and its sister genes responsible for multiple forms of inherited cancer. She and many others have applied the same approach to identification of genes with major impact on other complex diseases.
The Impact: Dr. King's discovery has transformed the diagnosis, drug development, and treatment of inherited breast and ovarian cancer. The identification of BRCA1 — and subsequently BRCA2 — has made it possible to diagnose whether a woman in an affected family is at extremely high risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer, enabling her to pursue preventative treatment.
King's passion for gene discovery integrated tools from genetics, statistics, mathematics, epidemiology, molecular biology, genomics and clinical medicine. Her revolutionary approach to gene discovery has had an impact on many other diseases, ranging from prostate cancer to inherited hearing loss to schizophrenia. King is also a pioneer in the development of DNA sequencing for the identification of victims of human rights' violations.
2021 John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award The 2021 John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award laureates are recognized for outstanding achievements in global health research:
Dr. Yi Guan, MD, MMedSci, PhD Chair Professor in Emerging Viral Diseases, Daniel C K Yu Endowed Professor in Virology, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong; Director, State Key Laboratory for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong; Director, Joint Institute of Virology (Shantou University-The University of Hong Kong), Shantou University, Shantou, China; Director, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Shantou University, Shantou, China.
Dr.Joseph Sriyal Malik Peiris, MBBS, FRCPath, DPhil (Oxon), FHKAM (Path), FRCP, FRS Professor and Chair in Virology, The University of Hong Kong; Honorary Consultant Microbiologist, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong; Co-Director, WHO H5 reference laboratory and SARS reference laboratory, HKU; Co-Director, WHO reference laboratories providing confirmatory testing for COVID-19, The University of Hong Kong.
Awarded "For significantly contributing to understanding the origins and options for control of newly emerging infectious disease outbreaks in Asia, notably zoonotic influenza and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)."
The Work: Drs. Guan and Peiris began collaborating at The University of Hong Kong in the aftermath of the H5N1 avian flu outbreak in Hong Kong. They initiated seminal studies of the underlying causes of H5 virus pathogenicity, the evolution of the H5N1 virus, and developed a highly effective monitoring and surveillance program of avian and swine influenza strains. Through their research Guan and Peiris established that live poultry markets in southern China and Hong Kong were the source of the virus spreading to humans, where it exhibited up to 60% lethality in infected persons. This work led to the temporary closure of the live poultry markets and cessation of animal to human transmission. Their subsequent work established new protocols for periodic live poultry market closures, emptying markets of poultry overnight to reduce virus amplification within these markets and the appropriate use of poultry vaccines to protect both poultry and people in Hong Kong from H5N1 infections. They have made major contributions towards understanding the emergence, transmission, epidemiology and pathogenesis of highly pathogenic avian influenzas including H5N1, H9N2, H6N1, H7N9, H5Nx and others and have provided evidence-based options for control of avian influenza viruses in Asia.
In 2003, following the emergence of novel coronavirus, SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) in China, Peiris led the team that first identified the virus responsible for the syndrome, the SARS-CoV-1 coronavirus, elucidating its pathogenesis, transmission, and quickly developed a diagnostic test which was then shared internationally. Meanwhile, Guan's team identified the human infectious source and zoonotic interface of SARS in the wild animal markets in Guangdong, China in 2003 and identified the human infectious source of MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) in Saudi Arabia in 2015. Guan's research accelerated advocacy of the closure of wild game animal markets, averting a potential recurrence of SARS in 2004.
The Impact: Guan and Peiris' investigations into the emergence and evolution of animal influenza H5 strains (and other H and N subtypes) and their role in identifying the SARS coronavirus, mode of transmission, risk factors, virus infectivity and period of infectivity, and identifying the original animal source were critical in the successful response to the outbreak.
In the case of SARS, which was causing up to 10% lethality in infected persons, their open sharing of information with the World Health Organization (WHO) and broader international community directly resulted in the rapid control of the disease. The establishment of the role of wild game animal markets in the transmission of the virus was pivotal in the decision by local Guangdong authorities to discontinue such markets to prevent future outbreaks of this or another emerging zoonosis. The isolation and characterization of the causative agent of SARS as a novel coronavirus and quick development of a diagnostic test of the virus in humans directly influenced public health policy to effectively monitor and control the spread of the disease.
Guan and Peiris' comprehensive strategies for surveillance, monitoring, identifying the human infectious source, investigation, diagnosis and control of emerging infectious disease outbreaks continue to provide critical guidance and insight for countries throughout Asia and the world, including the 2009 swine flu pandemic, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), and the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021 Canada Gairdner Wightman Award The 2021 Canada Gairdner Wightman Award laureate is a Canadian scientist recognized for outstanding leadership in medicine and medical science throughout their career:
Dr. Elizabeth Eisenhauer, OC, MD, FRCPC, FRSC Professor Emerita, Departments of Oncology and Medicine, Adjunct Professor of Oncology, Queen's University; Innovation Lead, Kingston Health Sciences Centre
Awarded "For investigation of new cancer drugs and delivery approaches, leading change in cancer clinical trials and establishing new standards of cancer treatment that have impacted patients around the world."
The Work: Dr. Eisenhauer's research has transformed the fields of cancer clinical trials and cancer drug delivery. Her fundamental contributions to the clinical evaluation of new anti-cancer agents, as well as cancer research strategy and clinical trials development, have been critical in the development of new treatments for ovarian cancer, malignant melanoma and brain tumours. She is credited with developing new methodologies for the delivery of Taxol, one of the most important cancer drugs in the world, which maintained the drug's efficacy and reduced toxic side effects to cancer patients. This shorter, safer method to deliver the drug has become the international standard, transforming the experience and outcomes of millions of patients worldwide.
Dr. Eisenhauer's extraordinary contributions extend to impactful national and international leadership roles including the founding in 1982 and subsequent direction of the Investigational New Drug Program (IND) of the National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group (NCIC-CTG), now the Canadian Cancer Trials Group. Dr. Eisenhauer also co-led the Methodology for the Development of Innovative Cancer Therapies International Task Force where she developed recommendations for the design and endpoints for trials of novel targeted cancer agents. As well she led the creation of the first collaborative cancer research strategy for Canada in her role as co-Chair of the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance, convened the first Summit to create a Tobacco Endgame for Canada and was inaugural Expert Lead for Research in the Canadian Partnership against Cancer.
The Impact: Dr. Eisenhauer's commitment to the advancement of cancer therapy, supportive care and prevention is unparalleled. Her extensive research contributions and leadership within the field of cancer care in Canada have influenced and advanced the conduct of clinical trials internationally. Her work has expanded the understanding of therapeutic interventions and has led to new standards of cancer treatment for patients in Canada and around the world.
About the Gairdner Foundation:
The Gairdner Foundation was established in 1957 by Toronto stockbroker, James Gairdner to award annual prizes to scientists whose discoveries have had major impact on scientific progress and on human health. Since 1959 when the first awards were granted, 394 scientists have received a Canada Gairdner Award and 92 to date have gone on to receive the Nobel Prize. The Canada Gairdner Awards promote a stronger culture of research and innovation across the country through our Outreach Programs including lectures and research symposia. The programs bring current and past laureates to a minimum of 15 universities across Canada to speak with faculty, trainees and high school students to inspire the next generation of researchers. Annual research symposia and public lectures are organized across Canada to provide Canadians access to leading science through Gairdner's convening power.
SOURCE Gairdner Foundation
Canadians with chronic health conditions reluctant to seek care during pandemic, survey finds
Almost four in ten Canadians (38%) surveyed, who have been clinically diagnosed with a chronic disease, say they are avoiding the health care system altogether during the pandemic.
MISSISSAUGA, ON, April 5, 2021 /CNW/ - Canadians living with chronic diseases - like arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease or obesity - are reluctant to seek proactive care during COVID-19, a new national survey reveals. While Canadians may think they're reducing potential health risks, delaying care can increase negative health outcomes and impact demand on healthcare professionals and our medical system.
Don't Put Your Health on Hold – Canadians are encouraged to engage healthcare professionals safely and efficiently during COVID-19. Every province and territory offers telemedicine and virtual care offerings. For those who need in-person care, Canadians should feel comfortable accessing their healthcare providers who offer safe, sanitized, environments for treatment. Please visit your provincial or territory Ministry of Health website for information to safely contact your healthcare professional either in-person or with telemedicine support.
Survey results include:
Almost four in ten (38%) Canadians surveyed - who have been clinically diagnosed with a chronic disease - say they are avoiding the healthcare system altogether during the pandemic.
13% of survey respondents who have been clinically diagnosed with a chronic condition have neither visited their physician nor had a virtual/telephone visit since the start of the pandemic.
Just over half (56%) of survey respondents with a chronic condition visited their physician in-person during the pandemic.
Expert statements:
Offering virtual care is good for patients, health care providers and the system, too. Especially in this pandemic environment, virtual medicine can facilitate delivering care. It can always be beneficial for people who live in a remote area or if they have mobility limitations. Electronic consults can help primary care providers obtain the advice of specialists for their patients. Many people affected by diabetes find virtual visits to be convenient; they experience high quality clinical care and are able to access the support they need in the virtual setting. – Seema Nagpal, Vice-President, Science & Policy, Diabetes Canada
Don't delay visiting the hospital if you are worried about acute health concerns, especially if diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is suspected. DKA is a serious complication of type1diabetes that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. In general, emergency departments and hospital wards are implementing all measures possible to prevent the spread of infection and are highly organized in terms of dealing separately with patients with established COVID-19, presumptive COVID-19, and without COVID-19. - Sarah Linklater, Chief Scientific Officer, JDRF Canada
Obesity is a serious chronic, progressive, and relapsing disease, similar to diabetes or high blood pressure, that can have a negative impact on your physical and mental health. Like any other chronic illness, long-term, continuous and interdisciplinary care is required to effectively manage obesity. We know that obesity care has been disrupted in many places in Canada. But, there are safe and reliable ways to speak to healthcare professionals during the pandemic, such as virtual care and in some cases, in-person consultations. Don't put your health on hold, speak to a qualified healthcare provider today. - Dr. Mary Forhan, Scientific Director Elect, Obesity Canada
About Survey This survey, commissioned by Novo Nordisk Canada Inc., was conducted using Leger's online panel between February 26 to 28, 2021 with 1,532 adult Canadians. 492 (35%) of the survey respondents have been clinically diagnosed with a chronic disease (e.g. arthritis, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, mood disorders, obesity, etc.). Leger estimates a probable margin of error of ±2.5%, 19 times out of 20.
About Novo Nordisk Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company, founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Our purpose is to drive change to defeat diabetes and other serious chronic diseases such as obesity and rare blood and endocrine disorders. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 44,000 people in 80 countries and markets its own products in around 170 countries. For more information, visit novonordisk.ca, Twitter, or YouTube.
SOURCE Novo Nordisk Canada Inc.
Sun Life donates $600,000 to help people with diabetes live healthier lives
Donation supports expansion of Toronto Rehab's virtual diabetes resource hub
TORONTO, April 5, 2021 /CNW/ - Worldwide more than 463 million people are living with diabetes, one of the fastest growing health challenges of our time. To help those living with the disease, Sun Life is donating $600,000 to Toronto Rehab-UHN. The funding will support the development of education materials for a new virtual diabetes program. The program provides information, tools and tips to prevent type 2 diabetes and encourage a healthy lifestyle.
Sun Life's initial commitment of $1 million in 2016 supported the launch of Sun Life Diabetes College; an online, interactive resource hub that helps people with diabetes manage their health through exercise, education and living a healthy lifestyle. The pandemic has forced more people online, increasing the need for virtual programs offering health-related information. Sun Life is committed to investing in programs that raise awareness of diabetes and drive healthy behaviour change.
"We believe that empowering individuals to take charge of their health can have a real impact. With the number of Canadians affected by diabetes growing every year, investing in programs focused on education and healthy habits can create positive and lasting change," said Linda Dougherty, Executive Vice-President, Corporate Strategy and Global Marketing, Sun Life. "As a large global organization, we are proud to champion diabetes awareness, prevention and care around the world. We are pleased to renew our commitment to Toronto Rehab. The important work they are doing is helping those with diabetes live healthier lives."
Since launching in 2016, close to 16,000 Canadians have accessed the tools, tips and information on the resource hub. Topics include how to prevent, manage and treat diabetes, as well as the importance of exercise and a healthy diet. For individuals living with diabetes, Sun Life Diabetes College has helped increase:
Knowledge about diabetes (22%)
Physical activity (21%) and motivation to exercise (14%)
Commitment to eating a healthy diet (25%)
The new 16-week exercise and education based virtual program will help participants anywhere in Ontario manage diabetes and achieve health and lifestyle goals. A team of health experts including kinesiologists, dietitians, social workers, psychologists and physicians will educate participants on how to treat their diabetes, get active, eat healthy and take control of their well-being.
"We are grateful to continue our collaborative partnership with Sun Life," said Dr. Paul Oh, Medical Director of UHN's Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation Program. "Together, we are improving and expanding Sun Life Diabetes College in response to our growing, worldwide need for effective, virtual diabetes education and care."
Since 2012, Sun Life has committed more than $37 million globally towards diabetes awareness, prevention and care. A few examples of our support in Canada include:
Canada's Children's Hospital Foundations - Invested $2 million to establish the Sun Life Child and Youth Type 2 Diabetes Prevention Program. An initiative to help children and adolescents adopt healthy living and lifestyle choices.
Right to Play – Donated $1.5 million to support Indigenous youth through the Promoting Life-skills in Aboriginal Youth (PLAY) program.
Montreal Heart Institute – Committed $450,000 to fund a diabetes prevention clinic to identify diabetes through early detection and promote healthy lifestyle strategies.
Celebrating 100 Years of Insulin Sun Life has a long history supporting health and wellness in Canada. As an early sponsor of the Banting Research Foundation, Sun Life donated $25,000 in 1925 for medical research. The foundation was named after Frederick G. Banting, one of two Canadians who discovered insulin. Today, we are proud to sponsor 100 Years of Insulin: Celebrating its impact on our lives. This free, virtual event on April 14, 2021, hosted by the Banting & Best Diabetes Centre, Diabetes Action Canada, and the University of Toronto Department of Medicine, will share research updates, stories on living with diabetes, and the latest advances related to insulin. Learn more here.
Sun Life in the community At Sun Life, we are committed to building sustainable, healthier communities for life. Community wellness is an important part of our sustainability commitment and we believe that by actively supporting the communities in which we live and work, we can help build a positive environment for our Clients, employees, advisors and shareholders. Our philanthropic support focuses on health, with an emphasis on diabetes awareness, prevention, and care initiatives; and mental health, supporting programs and organizations with a focus on building resilience and coping skills.
We also partner with sports properties in key markets to further our commitment to healthy and active living. Our employees and advisors take great pride in volunteering close to 12,000 hours each year and contribute to making life brighter for individuals and families across Canada.
