DECN READIES ITS 2NDEUA AMENDMENT WITH THE FDA FOR ITS GENVIRO! SWIFT PROFESSIONAL COVID-19 :15 TEST KIT, AND ALSO ANNOUNCES ITS FURTHER SUPPORT FOR MORE AND CONTINUED WORLDWIDE COVID-19 TESTING
LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / June 12, 2020 / Decision Diagnostics Corp. (OTC PINK:DECN) through its subsidiary Pharma Tech Solutions, Inc., today announced its continued support for additional COVID-19 testing on a worldwide level, as the company prepares a Second Amendment to its Emergency Use Application (EUA) that was completed and first submitted to the FDA on April 3, 2020.
This Amendment specifically addresses what the company believes are positive changes in the FDA Guidance and/or platforms (EUA updates 4 and 5) initiated on May 4 and May 11, 2020, respectively. The company believes that both of these guidance additions/changes help us as we present our GenViro! Swift :15 Kit and prepare it for commercial sale in anticipation of securing regulatory approval. In addition, the company emphasizes its ongoing support for increased testing as the US is experiencing a substantial uptick in the number of Covid-19 infections in approximately 20 states and the critical need to increase testing worldwide.
Keith Berman CEO of DECN commented, “It is clear from the data and in pronouncements from the vast majority of public-health experts that we need more testing, its accuracy needs to improve, and we need faster results. That’s exactly what we are working on with our Covid -19 :15 Swift Kit and why we are filing this 2nd amendment with the FDA.”
Leading outlets such as The New York Times have said the current state of testing is not sufficient, calling it “The Wild West”. In a late April article the Times also highlighted the fact that “The FDA must stick to its normal process for review but expedite it by giving top priority with its reviewers and bring more on if necessary.” Berman continued, “We agree and also believe that this will certainly support smaller, innovative companies with potential game-changing technologies like ours who remain anxious to demonstrate in the market alternative testing solutions.”
The company had previously announced that separate Emergency Use Applications (EUA) had been filed and have received Pre-EUA Acknowledgement letters from the U.S. FDA for device (serial number) PEUA200232, GenViro Covid-19 Swift Kit for professional use in commercial and group settings and device (serial number) PEUA200947, GenViro Covid-19 Screening Kit for at- home use.
Decision Diagnostics through its Pharma Tech Solutions, Inc. subsidiary is an 18-year old diabetes testing products firm, high-level manufacturer, quality plan administrator, FDA registered medical device customer support organization, and exclusive worldwide sales and regulatory process agent for its own proprietary regulated medical devices. Subject to FDA authorization of its GenViro! Swift kits, DECN anticipates adopting its further developed impedance technology, first utilized for its diabetic testing products, to implement the manufacturing and distribution of its GenViro! Covid-19 :15 Swift test kits in the U.S., Canada, and worldwide.
Mr. Berman continued, “While we will continue working with the FDA for an authorized EUA for our GenViro! Covid-19 :15 Swift Kit for both professional and at-home uses, we will not sit on the sidelines while the FDA reviews our game changing technology, and are proceeding with separate efforts overseas. We have identified and interviewed distribution organizations for International territories including the Russian Federation where we are at the agreement drafting stage, a second territory that includes India, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia, also at the agreement drafting stage, and we have begun an interview process for a territory in the EU by talking to a UK based distributor and a group in Denmark associated with a large Euro based pharma. We also expect to interview several more EU based companies in the next several weeks.”
ABOUT DECISION DIAGNOSTICS CORP
Decision Diagnostics Corp. is the leading manufacturer and worldwide distributor of diabetic test strips engineered to operate on legacy glucose meters. DECN's products are designed to operate efficiently and less expensively on certain glucose meters already in use by almost 7.5 million diabetics worldwide. With newly inspired technology diabetic test strips already in the final stages of development, DECN products compete on a worldwide scale with legacy manufacturers currently selling to 71+ percent of a $15+ billion at-home testing market. The company's new GenViro!™ product designed to test for Covid-19, is not yet available in the United States or Puerto Rico, but Emergency (EUA) Waivers are in process with the U.S. FDA.
Forward-Looking Statements:
This release contains the company's forward-looking statements which are based on management's current expectations and assumptions as of June 11, 2020, regarding the company's business and performance, its prospects, current factors, the economy, and other future conditions and forecasts of future events, circumstances, and results. ###
Health Canada Issues Notice of Compliance for Bausch Health's DUOBRII™
TOPICAL COMBINATION IMPROVING THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PLAQUE PSORIASIS IN ADULT PATIENTS WITH MODERATE TO SEVERE PLAQUE PSORIASIS FORMULATED WITH PROPRIETARY PRISMATREX™ TECHNOLOGY i
LAVAL, QC, June 11, 2020 /CNW Telbec/ - Bausch Health, Canada, which is part of Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE: BHC) (TSX: BHC), ("Bausch Health" or the "Company") has announced that Health Canada has approved the use of DUOBRIITM (0.01% w/w halobetasol propionate and 0.045% w/w tazarotene) lotion, a topical prescription medicine indicated for improving the signs and symptoms of plaque psoriasis in adult patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.i
A chronic inflammatory condition affecting the regeneration of skin cells, psoriasis affects its patients not just physically, but also emotionallyii. Studies suggest that about one million Canadians are impacted by this skin disease, with 90% of those affected suffering from plaque psoriasis.ii
DUOBRII is the first and only complementary retinoid-steroid combination of two ingredients – halobetasol propionate, which helps with the inflammation associated with psoriasis; and tazarotene helps with the normal growth of skin cells and by reducing inflammation.i DUOBRII is formulated with a unique and proprietary technology called Prismatrex, a polymeric emulsification system which provides a stable condition of the product where emulsion droplets retain their distribution across time and temperature.iii
"With Health Canada's approval of DUOBRII, patients suffering from plaque psoriasis will soon have an innovative topical treatment option that uniquely combines two well-known ingredients, halobetasol propionate and tazarotene with established safety profiles, into a single lotion offering the complementary benefits of a retinoid with a steroid for the first line treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis," said Richard Lajoie, President and General Manager, Bausch Health, Canada. "Since psoriasis is a chronic skin disease, patients require continuous treatment in order to achieve optimal control of their symptoms. Now, with DUOBRII, Canadian health care professionals and their patients have a new topical treatment option that can help achieve those long-term goals. We remain committed to bringing forward new medicines, like DUOBRII to meet the varying treatment needs of patients with psoriasis."
Psoriasis is a difficult condition to treat," said Dr. Neil H. Shear, MD, FRCPC, Professor and Head of Dermatology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. "Because psoriasis typically appears on visible parts of the body, it has a significant effect on how my patients feel and interact with others. Without question, achieving clear skin is the goal of patients and physicians alike. DUOBRII, which combines a corticosteroid and a retinoid, is the first new topical treatment option for psoriasis in many years, with encouraging results that can be seen in as early as two weeks. As well, it is the only topical treatment that provides extended clearance post-treatment."
Clinical trials and studies demonstrated that DUOBRII was statistically significantly more effective than Vehicle Lotion in achieving treatment success in the IGA at Week 8, defined as at least a 2-grade improvement from Baseline and a score of Clear or Almost Clear in the studies.i According to Dr. Shear, while other products containing steroids used for treating psoriasis have a limit to the length of time for their usage, DUOBRII has no treatment duration limitation. "Patients can use it until their skin is clear and can re-initiate treatment as needed."
"Having access to a new, first-line topical treatment is an important advance for patients with plaque psoriasis," said Rachael Manion of the Canadian Association of Psoriasis Patients (CAPP). "The psoriasis community welcomes the addition of this new once-daily topical treatment optioniv to the psoriasis treatment toolkit, especially in light of reduced treatment options for some people living with psoriasis during the COVID-19 pandemic."
It is expected that DUOBRII will be commercially available in Canada in late summer 2020.
DUOBRII is manufactured for US and Canadian patients at Bausch Health's Laval, Quebec manufacturing facility.
About Bausch Health Companies Inc.
Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX: BHC) is a global company whose mission is to improve people's lives with our health care products. We develop, manufacture and market a range of pharmaceutical, medical device and over-the-counter products, primarily in the therapeutic areas of eye health, gastroenterology and dermatology. We are delivering on our commitments as we build an innovative company dedicated to advancing global health.
In Canada, the Company's prescription product portfolio is focused on eye health, dermatology and cardio-metabolic conditions. More information can be found on the Company's website at bauschhealth.ca.
Theories about how COVID-19 spreads varies with emerging markets more likely to believe myths
More people globally believe COVID-19 can live on surfaces for days over other theories
Paris, France June 10, 2020 — Theories about how the coronavirus can spread varies across 16 countries with some myths holding more prominence in regions like emerging markets, according to the latest survey by Ipsos.
In global poll of nearly 16,000 people conducted from May 28 to 31, more people believe COVID-19 can live up to three days on surfaces over all other theories presented with a majority of respondents saying this is true in 11 of the countries.
People in Canada and the United Kingdom (69%), Australia (66%), Spain and Brazil (61%) are most likely to believe this, while those in China (32%), India (26%), Germany and South Korea (25%) and Italy (24%) are most likely to say it’s false.
But at the same time, people are more divided on whether COVID-19 can be spread by boxes and packages sent from other countries where the virus is present.
Respondents in emerging markets of India (54%), South Africa (50%), Brazil (45%) and China (42%) are most likely to believe this, while those in Italy (66%), Russia (61%) and Germany (55%) are most likely to disagree.
Exposure to drugs and temperature
In terms of treatment for COVID-19, a majority of people in 11 countries do not believe that hydroxychloroquine is a cure for the virus with those in Canada and the U.K. (80%), Australia (73%), the United States (69%) and Spain (67%) most likely to say this is false.
But people in India (37%) are mostly likely to believe the drug is a cure for the illness. Indians are also among the most likely to say that if a test for antibodies shows you have already been exposed to COVID-19, you cannot get the virus again. Those in Germany are also mostly like to say this is true at 28%, followed by 20% in Russia.
Meanwhile, those in South Korea (70%), Japan and China (68%) are most likely to say this is false.
When it comes to myths around exposure to the sun and temperatures to prevent contraction of COVID-19, people in India (35%), Russia (29%) and South Africa (27%) are most likely to believe this, while those in the U.K. (73%), Canada (70%) and Australia (63%) are most likely to say this is false.
Children, animals, food and technology
In terms of human transmission, a majority of people in all the countries disagree with the theory that children cannot get COVID-19 with this sentiment highest in the U.K. (93%) and Canada (91%). Mexico is the only country where nearly one in five (17%) say this is true.
People are more divided on whether pets can transmit the virus to humans. Those in hard-hit countries like Italy (83%), France (60%) and Spain (59%), followed by Mexico (58%) and Brazil (56%) are most likely to say this is false, while more than a third of respondents in Asian nations of China (40%), India (36%), South Korea (35%) and Japan (33%) said it is true.
When it comes to what you can eat to prevent infection, people in India (34%) and South Africa (14%) are most likely to say that eating garlic protects against infection of COVID-19. But, a majority of people in 15 countries said this is not true.
Lastly, there is consensus that 5G mobile technology cannot spread COVID-19 with a majority in all 16 countries saying this is false. People in the U.K. (88%), Canada (84%) and Germany (82%) top the list on this.
These are the results of an Ipsos survey conducted May 28th to 31st, 2020 on the Global Advisor online platform among 15,872 adults aged 18-74 in Canada and the United States and 16-74 in Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, India, Japan, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, South Korea and the United Kingdom. Where available, tracking results from previous studies conducted through March and April, as well as selected results from February, are referenced by date.
The sample for this study consists of approximately 1,000 individuals in each country. The samples in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, South Korea, the U.K. and the U.S. can be taken as representative of these countries’ general adult population over age 16 or 18 (as above) and under the age of 75. The sample in Brazil, China, India, Mexico, Russia, and South Africa is more urban, more educated and/or more affluent than the general population and should be viewed as reflecting the views of the more “connected” segment of the population. The data is weighted so that each market’s sample composition best reflects the demographic profile of the adult population according to the most recent census data.
Where results do not sum up to 100 or the ‘difference’ appears to be +/-1 more/less than the actual, this may be due to rounding, multiple responses or the exclusion of don't knows or not stated responses. The precision of Ipsos online polls is calculated using a credibility interval with a poll of 1,000 accurate to +/- 3.5 percentage points. For more information on the Ipsos use of credibility intervals, please visit the Ipsos website (www.Ipsos.com).
60 minutes of endurance training is enough to shift body clock in mice
New research published today in The Journal of Physiology shows that just one 60 minutes bout of exercise shifted the muscle clocks of mice by around an hour in either direction. If this research is replicated in humans, it makes a case for prescribing exercise for night-shift workers and for treating diseases like heart disease, both of which can result in disrupted clocks throughout the body.
Clocks exist in virtually all our cells to temporally coordinate cell specific functions. The setting of our clocks are sensitive to cues like changes in light throughout the day, or our time of eating. Researchers at the University of Florida found that the clocks in muscles of mice were “listening” to information from their muscle contractions during exercise.
This means that exercise is a cue for setting the clocks in muscles. The researchers determined this by studying mice that ran in different phases of the day: in the middle of their rest phase, an hour before starting their active phase, and in the middle of their active phase. Active and rest phases in mice are equivalent to day and night in humans. They then looked at how the amount of a primary clock protein changed over the course of multiple days following muscle contractions. Their results showed that depending on the timing of contractions the clocks shifted about an hour to either an earlier or later time and that this does not require circulating hormones or the central clock.
In other words, the timing of exercise during the day, can rewind or fast forward our muscle body clocks, so fine-tuning this could allow precise treatment of conditions where the body clocks either is running ahead or behind.
Researchers carried this research out in mice rather than humans as it would require multiple muscle biopsies, which are invasive procedures. Although this research has been done in mice thus far, it can be taken forward in patients without the need for clinical trials, as it calls for a prescription of exercise timing for certain conditions, such as heart disease.
Christopher Wolff, a co-first author on the study said:
“This research is really important because it highlights the effect exercise can have on our body clocks. If this is replicated in humans it means that night-shift workers can use exercise to help shift their body clocks. We may also be able to use exercise as a treatment for a ‘body clock disorders’ that can occur in many chronic diseases such as heart disease.“
The Journal of Physiology publishes advances in physiology which increase our understanding of how our bodies function in health and disease. http://jp.physoc.org
The Physiological Society brings together over 4,000 scientists from over 60 countries. The Society promotes physiology with the public and parliament alike. It supports physiologists by organising world-class conferences and offering grants for research and also publishes the latest developments in the field in its three leading scientific journals, The Journal of Physiology, Experimental Physiology and Physiological Reports. www.physoc.org
OMA's Prescription for the Province: Balance in Reopening
TORONTO, June 11, 2020 /CNW/ - As some areas of the province move towards Phase 2 of reopening this Friday, the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) urges continued measures to lower the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
Reopening the economy is important for Ontarians' financial, social, psychological, and developmental needs. At the same time, a balanced approach is essential to ensure that safety remains a top priority.
There is a significant backlog of medical care from the 3 months of lockdown. Community doctors are still uncertain as to the availability of PPE. Extra care and precautions are needed for vulnerable populations to ensure they remain safe and healthy and have the support needed to continue isolating.
"Ontarians have done a great job staying home and physically distancing to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, but a continued state of lockdown for the entire province is neither realistic nor sustainable," said OMA President Dr. Samantha Hill. "We know that we aren't out of the woods yet so as the province reopens it is essential to continue measures like physical distancing, handwashing and wearing face coverings.
The safe reopening of Ontario is contingent upon:
Continuous and robust case and contact tracing.
Widespread testing.
Good hygiene practices such as handwashing.
Physical distancing where possible.
Wearing face coverings indoors in public places and outdoors when physical distancing is difficult.
Public trust in and compliance with what will certainly be evolving messages, with local differences
The government should ensure there is clear and consistent information available on the safe use of face coverings, recommendations on physical distancing, contract tracing technologies and testing criteria. This information should be accessible, easy to understand, readily available and regionally based.
Doctors have and will continue to provide this information through the OMA communications channels and through daily interactions with hundreds of thousands of patients.
"The OMA will continue to work closely with the government to provide our expertise and ensure that public health remains top of mind," said OMA CEO Allan O'Dette. "As we begin to resume more activities, we must be vigilant in protecting ourselves and others."
The Ontario Medical Association represents Ontario's 43,000 plus physicians, medical students and retired physicians, advocating for and supporting doctors while strengthening the leadership role of doctors in caring for patients. Our vision is to be the trusted voice in transforming Ontario's health-care system.
SOURCE Ontario Medical Association
Does Keto Boost Your Immune System?
By: Fresh n' Lean, the nation's #1 organic meal delivery company
SUMMARY
More and more people are adopting ketogenic diets. Does keto boost your immune system? Studies show it may help protect against certain viruses, and some keto foods can bolster immunity.
Fresh N’ Lean is the nation’s largest organic meal delivery service. Our tasty, chef-prepared cuisine is always fresh and never frozen, and we offer five convenient meal plans: Protein+, Keto, Paleo, Standard Vegan and Low-Carb Vegan. Choose Fresh N’ Lean for affordable nutrition, delivered to your doorstep.
Reaching your goals becomes a lot harder if you’re always out sick.
If you want to avoid falling victim to a cold or flu, you’ll have to maintain a healthy immune system. The keto diet is an eating plan that’s low in carbs and high in fat, and it’s been touted for its ability to foster weight loss and lower blood sugar. Does keto boost your immune system? Some studies suggest that it can.
Below, we’ll take a look at a keto diet’s effect on immune function. We’ll also suggest specific keto foods that work hard to ramp up immunity. Read on to learn how a keto eating plan can help your body fight off viruses and pathogens.
Keto and immunity
We’re living in the shadow of a global pandemic. ”Wash your hands,” we’re told, and toilet paper shortages are the order of the day.
Studies have shown that the keto diet is good for burning fat and lowering blood sugar, and it may improve the health of those who are at increased risk for conditions such as diabetes. Its benefits don’t end there: Keto may also be helpful in warding off certain viruses.
You may be wondering what impact keto has on the virus that’s on the tip of everyone’s tongue right now: COVID-19. To date, there hasn’t been any conclusive data presented on whether a ketogenic diet can mitigate the effects of this deadly illness.
Fighting the flu
However, the good news is that studies suggest a keto diet reduces the effect of another well-known virus: influenza. Research published in the journal Science Immunology shows that a keto eating plan may produce favorable outcomes for those who want to avoid catching the flu.
In this age of COVID-19, worrying about catching a cold or flu seems almost quaint. However, a common cold can knock you off your feet for days. Being out of commission for that long can slow down your productivity, setting you back as you work to further your career.
According to Science Immunology, mice fed a keto diet were shown to be less likely to contract the influenza A virus. The protective effect of this diet seems to stem from its ability to boost the production of gamma-delta T cells in the animals’ lungs. This encourages increased mucus production in the epithelial cells lining the airway. This mucus ultimately serves to contain the virus.
All this comes with one huge caveat: So far, these studies have been conducted solely on mice infected with influenza, not people. But researchers say these results provide a rationale for investigating whether humans on a keto diet are less likely to get the flu.
Now that we’ve looked at the keto diet’s effect on viruses, let’s examine the role certain keto foods have on the body’s immune response.
Keto immune booster #1: Poultry
In certain cultures, chicken soup is said to be worth its weight in gold when it comes to strengthening the immune system and protecting against colds and flu. Research suggests the healing power of this food isn’t just an old wives’ tale.
Chicken soup contains poultry. Poultry meat has a vitamin that improves immune response. That vitamin is B6.
Both animal and human studies show that B6 deficiency has a negative impact on the body’s immune response. Research also shows that adding B6 to your diet reduces inflammation, and this can bolster the body’s immunity.
Both chicken and turkey are rich sources of B6. Know that commercially raised poultry contains antibiotics that may harm your health. Choose organic poultry to experience maximum benefit from this immune-boosting food.
Organic poultry may be difficult to find in some places. Easily access this meat by subscribing to Fresh N’ Lean’s Keto meal plan. In that plan, you’ll find organic poultry in dishes such as our Roasted Turkey Breast and Cage-Free Chicken Parmesan.
Keto immune booster #2: Cod
Many of us grew up taking cod liver oil. As its name suggests, this is an oil extracted from the liver of the cod fish. For centuries, it’s been used to treat conditions such as joint pain and rickets.
It turns out that its oil isn’t the only valuable part of this fish. The flesh of the cod is also rich in healthy nutrients. Fatty fish such as cod are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. These acids can help the body mount a powerful immune response against invading pathogens. They also support immunity by working hard to reduce inflammation.
Get your weekly serving of cod by subscribing to Fresh N’ Lean’s meal delivery service. You’ll find this nutritious fish in our Keto meals such as Wild Cod with Pesto.
Keto immune booster #3: Almonds
Fats play a key role in the keto diet. Almonds are one of the healthiest fat sources you can find, and these nuts work heroically to bolster the immune system.
Almonds are packed to the brim with vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports immunity. Vitamin E is fat-soluble, which means it requires the presence of a fat for effective digestion. In addition to vitamin E, almonds contain lots of beneficial fats. This combination works to help your body make the most of vitamin E’s immune-boosting powers.
Increase your almond intake by signing up for our Keto meal plan. You’ll find this nutrient-dense nut in dishes such as our Almond-Crusted Sustainable Cod.
Next steps
The keto foods listed above may support your body’s immune response. Add them to your diet to garner extra protection from colds and flu.
Get these nourishing foods delivered to your door by signing up for Fresh N’ Lean’s Keto meal plan. It includes dishes that contain ingredients such as cod, almonds and poultry.
If you would rather not receive future communications from Jacobson Strategy, let us know by clicking here. Jacobson Strategy, 6304 Vista Verde Drive East, Gulfport, FL 33707 United States
Nearly 1.5 Million North Carolinians Remain Jobless, But Tillis Won’t Support Extending Unemployment Benefits That Expire Next Month
Tillis Claims That He’s Fighting for NC’s Jobless, But His Record Tells a Different Story
Loss of Jobs Hurting Black Community, Minorities Particularly Hard
Raleigh, N.C. — Piedmont Rising Executive Director Casey Wilkinson released the following statement as the U.S. Department of Labor reports 44.2 million unemployment claims have been filed since mid-March and nearly 1.5 million North Carolinians remain jobless.
“The number of jobless claims filed last week are more than twice as high as the highest number of weekly claims filed during the Great Recession. Clearly, too many North Carolinians are out-of-work and still struggling. While Senators Tillis and Burr voted against expanded unemployment benefits that have served as a lifeline during this crisis, they have a chance to support extending this critical support ahead of their expiration next month. Not doing so would be cruel and bad for the economy. Instead of making life harder for working North Carolinians, like they have by voting consistently to raise health care costs, it’s time for Senators Tillis and Burr to support expanded unemployment benefits that help their constituents pay the bills and get by during this crisis. Especially as Black unemployment has risen, now is certainly not the time to leave North Carolinians to fend for themselves.”
Background
An estimated 44.2 million have filed for unemployment benefits due to the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic, meaning millions will be left without health insurance.
A new report shows that fewer than half of Black people included in the labor force were employed in April, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, further illustrating their greater risk for job losses amid the economic upheaval on top of higher rates of COVID-19, which has now killed more than 100,000 people in the US.
Without the ACA, North Carolina would have entered this pandemic with 500,000 fewer residents insured, and thus 500,000 more who would have weighed seeking treatment for coronavirus-like symptoms against their ability to pay for it.
Piedmont Rising is a 501 (c)4 issue advocacy organization built by and for North Carolinians to advocate for lower insurance premiums and prescription drug costs and to ensure that more people have access to safe and affordable health care. Through grassroots organizing, education, and engagement, we are amplifying our health care stories and holding our elected officials accountable to the people, and issues they were elected to represent.www.piedmontrising.org
AmeriHealth Caritas Urges Americans to Reduce Coronavirus Risk by Quitting Smoking and Vaping
Behaviors compromise lung health, can increase vulnerability to COVID-19 infection
Philadelphia, Pa. —AmeriHealth Caritas, a national leader in Medicaid managed care and other health care solutions for those most in need, cautions that electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use can lead to poorer health outcomes for people living below the federal poverty level, who are disproportionately affected by smoking-related health issues.
Some health officials are becoming increasingly alarmed by the possibility that vaping could make COVID-19 worse. Vaping, the use of e-cigarettes, can cause dangerous lung and respiratory problems, which could aggravate the symptoms of COVID-19.
At a recent press briefing on COVID-19, Dr. Sharon Watkins of the Pennsylvania Department of Health cautioned, “We do know that vaping is related to lung injury and lung injury is one of the risk factors for more severe presentation in COVID-19.” Watkins, the PA State Epidemiologist, said smokers should reduce or stop vaping to avoid COVID-19 complications.
Smoking has been designated as an underlying medical condition by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) because it weakens the immune system, which increases the risk for severe illness from COVID-19.[i] The American Lung Association also believes smokers are a high-risk group.
“COVID-19 is a respiratory disease, it attacks the lungs. That means people who smoke regular cigarettes, marijuana or vape should take extra precautions and consider themselves at higher risk for complications from COVID-19,” said Deborah Brown, chief mission officer of the American Lung Association. “And that means that there has never been a better time to quit smoking — use this current disruption of your regular schedule to create a new tobacco and smoke-free plan.”
Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, vaping was deemed a growing public health issue, said Dr. Andrea Gelzer, senior vice president of medical affairs at AmeriHealth Caritas. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the sale of fruit, dessert and mint-flavored e-cigarette pods which are popular with teenagers, but exempted menthol-flavored pods containing nicotine for adult users who may be trying to make a switch from traditional cigarettes.[ii]
“We are at risk of having a generation with significant respiratory problems caused by vaping,” Dr. Gelzer said. “People are becoming addicted to nicotine through vaping, which is not a safe or viable smoking cessation strategy.”
Through the first two months of the year there already were more than 2,800 lung injury cases and about 70 deaths in the United States and the District of Columbia associated with the use of e-cigarettes, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The aerosol created by e-cigarettes can contain harmful substances, including nicotine, heavy metals like lead, volatile organic compounds and cancer-causing agents.
Like traditional combustible cigarettes, e-cigarettes are being marketed and sold in retail locations concentrated in communities “at higher risk for adverse health outcomes, including communities whose residents have lower incomes, greater racial diversity, and lower educational attainment,” according to a recent report by the Public Health Law Center, a St. Paul, Minn.-based organization that provides legal and policy analysis to support efforts to reduce and eliminate commercial tobacco products.
Dr. Gelzer said e-cigarette use may worsen existing health disparities in vulnerable communities, especially those that have been disproportionately affected by smoking-related diseases and who have been historically targeted by tobacco marketers.
“We encourage and provide assistance to our members to quit smoking – including free cessation counseling and nicotine replacement products – because it is important to protect one’s health,” she said. “Nicotine is highly addictive and it can be very difficult to quit. There are safer and more effective methods for quitting smoking than e-cigarettes.”
About AmeriHealth Caritas AmeriHealth Caritas is one of the nation’s leaders in health care solutions for those most in need. Operating in 13 states and the District of Columbia, AmeriHealth Caritas serves approximately 4 million Medicaid, Medicare and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) members through its integrated managed care products, pharmaceutical benefit management and specialty pharmacy services, and behavioral health services. Headquartered in Philadelphia, AmeriHealth Caritas is a mission-driven organization with more than 35 years of experience serving low-income and chronically ill populations. For more information, visit www.amerihealthcaritas.com.
GOING TO A MED SPA OR A DOCTOR’S OFFICE FOR A PEEL IS SO PASSE
WHY NOT HAVE ONE CUSTOMIZED AND DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR ?
Peels are one of the most effective and least invasive paths to better skin. Specially formulated with gentle acids and other pure ingredients, they clarify and beautify by removing dead surface layers, enabling skin to heal and renew itself from within. In order to receive peels that are truly effective, skin care devotees must go to a physician’s office or med-spa to receive a peel with sufficient strength to deliver maximum results. With approximately $36.5 million Americans unemployed paying $125.00 or more a month for an in-office peel is a luxury most cannot afford. In addition, due to COVID there are many who do not feel comfortable having a procedure performed that entails being inside with no mask on with an aesthetician inches away from their face.
Although a plethora of skincare companies offer versions of peels in a pad form, most offer low concentrations of the active formulas and high PH’s that render the formulas less effective. What’s more, the method of applying these “peels” is not the same as what is done in a doctor’s office or med spa. Perfect Image is one of the first beauty companies, whose products were formulated by a chemist, to deliver custom peels to your doorstep that provide the same efficacy as in-office peels at a mere fraction of the price.
Cost: $29.95 for 30 ML or approximately 15-30 peel applications. Average use is 1-2 ML per treatment.
How does the process work? If customers have had professional peels performed and they are familiar with the strength used on their skin they can choose from 10%, 30% or 50% glycolic peels. If the process is new to them, or they have questions, they can chat online with a licensed aesthetician who they can send pictures to so that the aesthetician can recommend the strength best suited to their skin, as well as suggest pre-peel and post-peel products.
The product application- 99% of the peels that are available on the market come in a pad form and are meant to be swiped across the face.
Perfect Images does offer peels in a pad form as well, which are just as effective as their bottled formula. They are pads that are pre-soaked with the liquid gel peel. Just because they are in pad form, does not mean it lessens the effectiveness. The biggest difference from Perfect Image’s version compared to those on the market is the concentration of acid (most are 10% or lower concentration), and a higher pH typically 3.5 and higher which dilutes the formula. Perfect Image has a lower PH range from 2-2.5pH. to keep the integrity of the active ingredients.
Perfect Image products come in a liquid gel form in a “tincture” bottle and are left on the face for a maximum of 1 minute if it’s your first treatment. Then, users typically slowly increase the contact time on the skin and or number of layers on subsequent treatments. When layering the peel, it can be as effective or comparable to a peel in a spa or treatment center. Layers refer to how many times you wipe the peel over the same area in a single treatment. With each wipe, the peel intensifies and penetrates the skin a little deeper until neutralized or reaches a certain depth based on pH and skin type. Layering is only recommended for those who are comfortable with peels or have more experience, and have used the peel several times without complications. You can continue layering up to 2-5 layers depending on peel and skin tolerance. Perfect Image always recommends that its customers build up a tolerance before layering.
This is how peels are applied professionally. The products come with clear instructions to spot test on a small patch of skin such as under the chin or an area close to the treatment area, before applying to the face. Once it is determined that the skin reacts well to the product, it can be used on the face, shoulders, decollete, and tops of the hands.
Benefits:
Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
Improves skin hydration
Improves Scars
Reduces Pore Size
Helps to Reduce Acne
Reduces Hyperpigmentation
Stimulates collagen development for plumper, firmer skin
Increases cellular turnover for smoother skin
Each product is packed with natural plant/ botanical extracts.
The “beauty” of Perfect Image Products is how they are made
Paraben Free
Gluten Free
Phalate Free
Cruelty Free
Made in The USA
*** 70% peel is available for professional purchase only
Cornucopia Campaign Elevates the Country's Top-Rated Dairy Producers Empowering a consumer response to the “factory-farm takeover” of organic agriculture
Earl Ransom (above) and Amy Huyffer of Strafford Organic Creamery, one of Cornucopia’s top-rated dairies, are committed to the guiding principles of organic agriculture. They pay close attention to building soil fertility, protecting their watershed, and managing their beloved herd of Guernsey cows with animal welfare as a top priority. (Photo by Rachel Zegerius during a recent visit to top-rated dairies in Vermont)
The Cornucopia Institute is launching a new campaign to showcase dairy producers who use the most ethical, authentic organic farming practices.
The Organic Innovators: Top-Rated Farmers You Can Trust” Dairy Campaign will empower consumers and wholesale buyers to support hard-working farmers who are in danger of being washed off the land by a tidal wave of surplus organic milk, stemming from the rise of factory farms certified under the USDA organic label.
The campaign builds on Cornucopia’s Organic Dairy Scorecard, used by thousands of consumers monthly to make food shopping decisions that invest in responsible stewardship of environmental and human health. This consumer tool is based on up-to-date research of the organic dairy industry and rates over 160 organic dairy brands and private-label products.
“Authentic organic dairies lack the multimillion-dollar marketing budgets of their industrial competitors,” says Marie Burcham, Cornucopia’s director of domestic policy. “Cornucopia aims to elevate the critical role these dairies play in the marketplace and in our communities.”
The campaign will prioritize exemplary management practices that set top-rated farms apart from other organic dairy farms and provide a more nutritious, value-added product to consumers.
“Your food choices matter,” Burcham says. “If you have the access, buying from our top-rated brands serves as an investment in our collective health, decentralized food production, and the future of the planet while safeguarding the livelihoods of ethical, organic dairies.”
As the specter of food shortages hovers, local farms have been busier than ever and are not hobbled by the complicated supply chains of industrialized food production.
Cornucopia is committed to the preservation and protection of public health; access to clean, nutrient-dense food; and the livelihoods of authentic organic farmers who contribute to the health of their communities, animals, plants, and soil.
Read our profiles on Seven Stars Farm (Phoenixville, Pennsylvania), Thistle Hill (North Pomfret, Vermont), and Strafford Organic Creamery (Strafford, Vermont) on Cornucopia’s Farmer Spotlight page. Stay tuned to follow our ongoing “Organic Innovators” Dairy Campaign, which will include additional profiles and issue-specific research.
See how your favorite dairy brand rates on our mobile-friendly scorecard. If your favorite organic brand isn’t on this list, please let us know at cultivate@cornucopia.org.
The campaign builds on Cornucopia’s 