Feeling Philosophical? Deep Dive Into Human Consciousness Reveals Profound Conclusions
Washington, D.C., August 17, 2022 — “Your feelings, your thoughts, your perceptions, your mind, can be accounted for by your brain's processes,” philosophical writer Robert Hamady states in his thought-provoking new book, You Are Some Piece of Work. “Consciousness is a biological process like digestion.”
In part one, Hamady breaks down six compelling neurological findings that indicate it is the brain, not the will, that produces actions. He follows this in part two with the six principal features, and the wonder, of consciousness.
“Nothing is more astonishing than a mental event,” Hamady writes. Readers can learn why in You Are Some Piece of Work, then marvel at their average day.
At 66 pages, You Are Some Piece of Work is a concise read on the supremacy of the brain vis-à-vis the mind.
“Awareness of your body grounds you in the present,” Hamady adds. “When you're in the present, you’re not in time. There is no past to be stressed about, no future to fear.”
Readers of You Are Some Piece of Work may never “think” about their brains the same way again.
About the Author
Robert Hamady is a philosophical writer whose focus is self-realization. He is a lawyer and strategic planner with a degree in philosophy. His other works include In Search of the Elusive “I”,The Other Virtual You and Groceryman.
Spectral Announces FDA Approval to Add Up to 10 Additional Tigris Clinical Trial Sites
TORONTO, Aug. 18, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Spectral Medical Inc. (“Spectral” or the “Company”) (TSX: EDT), a late stage theranostic company advancing therapeutic options for sepsis and septic shock, as well as commercializing a new proprietary platform targeting the renal replacement therapy market through its wholly-owned subsidiary Dialco Medical Inc. (“Dialco”), today announced that following a review of Spectral’s supplemental information to its Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) application, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the addition of up to ten new clinical trial sites to the Company’s pivotal Tigris trial. This approval would bring the total potential trial sites to 25 U.S. institutions. The FDA determined that the Company provided sufficient data to support expansion of its human clinical study and that there are no subject protection concerns that preclude expansion of the investigation.
Chris Seto, Chief Executive Officer of Spectral, commented, “We are pleased to receive FDA approval to increase our Tigris clinical trial sites, which should support more rapid enrollment. We believe this approval is further validation of our progress and builds upon PMX’s recent Breakthrough Device designation by the FDA, as well as our ongoing trial results, which continue to exceed expectations.”
Dr. John Kellum, Chief Medical Officer of Spectral, stated, “Although the pandemic has made sepsis trials more challenging, we look forward to adding additional sites, which we expect will provide significantly more opportunities for enrollment. Our goal is to add at least four additional clinical trial sites by the end of October 2022. We believe having these additional sites active before flu season would be beneficial, given the prevalence of endotoxemic septic shock in these patients. In fact, Australia, often seen as a precursor to the U.S., is experiencing one of its worst flu seasons this year.”
About Spectral
Spectral is a Phase 3 company seeking U.S. FDA approval for its unique product for the treatment of patients with septic shock, Toraymyxin™ (“PMX”). PMX is a therapeutic hemoperfusion device that removes endotoxin, which can cause sepsis, from the bloodstream and is guided by the Company’s Endotoxin Activity Assay (EAA™), the only FDA cleared diagnostic for the risk of developing sepsis.
PMX is approved for therapeutic use in Japan and Europe, and has been used safely and effectively on more than 340,000 patients to date. In March 2009, Spectral obtained the exclusive development and commercial rights in the U.S. for PMX, and in November 2010, signed an exclusive distribution agreement for this product in Canada. In July 2022, the U.S. FDA granted Breakthrough Device Designation for PMX for the treatment of endotoxemic septic shock. Approximately 330,000 patients are diagnosed with septic shock in North America each year.
Spectral, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Dialco Medical Inc., is also commercializing a new set of proprietary platforms addressing renal replacement therapy (RRT) across the dialysis spectrum. SAMI is targeting the acute RRT market, while DIMI is targeting the chronic RRT market. Dialco is currently pursuing regulatory approval for U.S. in-home use of DIMI, which is based on the same RRT platform as SAMI, but will be intended for home hemodialysis use. DIMI recently received its FDA 510k clearance for use in hospital and clinical settings, and obtained its Health Canada license for use within Canadian hospitals, clinics and in home.
Spectral is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol EDT. For more information please visit www.spectraldx.com.
Forward-looking statement
Informationinthisnewsreleasethatisnotcurrentorhistoricalfactualinformationmayconstituteforward-looking information within the meaning of securities laws. Implicit in this information, particularly in respect of the future outlook of Spectral and anticipated events or results, are assumptions based on beliefs of Spectral's senior managementaswellasinformationcurrentlyavailabletoit.Whiletheseassumptionswereconsideredreasonable by Spectral at the time of preparation, they may prove to be incorrect. Readers are cautioned that actual results aresubjecttoanumberofrisksanduncertainties,includingtheavailabilityoffundsandresourcestopursueR&D projects, the successful and timely completion of clinical studies, the ability of Spectral to take advantage of business opportunities in the biomedical industry, the granting of necessary approvals by regulatory authorities as well as general economic, market and business conditions, and could differ materially from what is currently expected.
The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this statement.
The ‘Miracle’ of the Imperial Valley: Early Treatment Protocol Saved Thousands
“How many more people would be alive today had the medical establishment followed the example of Dr. Tyson and Dr. Fareed instead of heeding arrogant bureaucrats who recommended no treatment for COVID-19 until it was often too late?”— Senator Ron Johnson, Wisconsin
Santa Ana, CA, August 18, 2022 — As the seemingly never-ending stream of COVID variants make headlines, Drs. George Fareed and Brian Tyson of the Imperial Valley in California continue to advocate for early treatment protocols.
“Our mission is to help people understand the critical importance of early COVID-19 treatment because there may be harsh surges,” the doctors say on their website (http://www.overcomingcoviddarkness.com/). “We also hope that vaccination programs recognize that COVID-19 variants will continue to arise in those who have been vaccinated as long vaccines fail to completely block the infection.”
Drs. Fareed and Tyson saw hundreds of COVID patients every day in their open-air test-and-treat center. At a time when hospitals and other medical facilities were turning away patients who weren’t “sick enough,” Drs. Fareed and Tyson turned away no one, saved thousands of lives — and were threatened with suspension of their medical licenses.
“Our results are nothing short of a miracle,” the doctors write in the introduction to their new book, Overcoming the COVID Darkness. “Despite the amazing success we achieved with more than 7,000 patients, all of the major medical organizations — from the WHO, to the NIH, to the CDC — did not welcome our information.”
In Overcoming the COVID Darkness, the doctors share their candid, deeply compelling story, and attempt to provide readers with clarity about COVID and alleviate fears.
“People need to know — and be reassured — that we will survive this pandemic, just like pandemics of the past. There is treatment available. This treatment works when used early, and it is highly effective,” the doctors say.
Overcoming the COVID Darkness is their story, complete with testimonials from patients and other doctors, research studies, news clippings, and most of all, the reasons why this successful treatment (which includes pharmaceutical and nutraceutical ingredients) was held back from the public.
In a recent interview, Dr. Tyson posits, “Had we done test-and-treat centers all across the United States, we could have saved 80 percent of the population that died from COVID-19.”
About the Authors
Dr. George Fareed graduated from Harvard Medical School with Honors and completed a medical internship at Peter Bent Brigham Hospital. He has worked at NIAID, at Harvard Medical School and at UCLA School of Medicine.
He was a founder and director of scientific planning of a biotech company, Ingene (International Genetic Engineering, Inc.). Since 1991, Dr. Fareed has worked clinically in primary medical care in the Imperial Valley of California. He has been on the frontline for early COVID-19 treatment, and has practiced the whole spectrum of COVID-19 care, treating outpatients as well as inpatients as a hospitalist. He testified on November 19, 2020, in the Senate Hearing on early COVID-19 treatment.
Dr. Brian Tyson is a board-certified family practitioner who worked as an emergency physician at Arrowhead Regional Medical center for 13 years and as a hospitalist physician for 14 years before opening his own urgent care in 2018.
Dr. Tyson was the Program Medical Director for Cogent Healthcare and Beaver Medical Group. His experience with COVID-19 has been exceptional, with over 30,000 patients evaluated, and zero deaths with early treatment.
His urgent care serves a high-risk population that includes two nursing homes, and his success was due to his aggressive early management. Due to his proven methodology, Dr. Tyson is considered a frontline COVID-19 treatment expert and has been featured on multiple media sites.
Licensing Partnership with Wellbeings® marks entry into Canadian addiction treatment and relapse prevention market
TORONTO, CANADA, August 18, 2022 – Awakn Life Sciences Corp. (NEO: AWKN) (OTCQB: AWKNF) (FSE: 954) (‘Awakn’), a revenue-generating biotechnology company researching, developing, and commercializing therapeutics to treat addiction with a near-term focus on Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), announces today it has signed its first licensing partnership agreement in Canada with Wellbeings® Pain Management and Dependency Clinic (Wellbeings). The agreement will enable Ontario based Wellbeings®, who are focused on multi-disciplinary, evidence based, best-practice, patient centred care, to treat their patients with Awakn’s proprietary ketamine-assisted therapy for the treatment of AUD as a co-morbidity for pain.
This is the second Licensing Partnership agreement that Awakn has signed in North America and follows on from the announcement earlier this week of an agreement with Revitalist Lifestyle and Wellness Ltd., who are one of the largest publicly listed U.S. based ketamine wellness-clinic chains. These agreements mean that Awakn is generating revenue from its proprietary treatments across multiple territories, including the United Kingdom, United States, Norway, and Canada.
Under the terms of the license agreement with Wellbeings®, Awakn will provide access to its proprietary therapeutics for AUD and training to Wellbeings®practitioners, and in return, Wellbeings® will pay Awakn an annual subscription and a revenue share per treatment.
Awakn’s proprietary treatment was developed and validated in a Phase II a/b trial. The results of the trial were published in January 2022 in the American Journal of Psychiatry. The trial delivered 86% abstinence over the six-months post treatment versus 2% pre-trial. The current standard of care has an approximate 25% abstinence rate over the same timeframe.
The most recent comprehensive cost study estimated the total cost of alcohol-related harm to Canadians to be $14.6 billion. It was also estimated by the Canadian government that over 19% of the population were classified as heavy drinkers before the pandemic started. Awakn aims to help people who are suffering with alcohol addiction by providing clinic operators with access to an efficient and effective treatment option under license.
Anthony Tennyson, Awakn CEO commented,“We are delighted to sign another Licensing Partnership agreement in quick succession. Expanding our revenue generation into Canada is another significant milestone for Awakn. Wellbeings share our vision and goal of making new more effective treatment options available to so many people who are suffering and will make another excellent partner as we start to disrupt the incumbent addiction treatment industry in North America.”
Peggi Shepherd DeGroote, Wellbeings® CEO and president commented, “As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidence of Alcohol Use Disorder has increased significantly and is now affecting about 8 million people in Canada alone. People from all walks of life are suffering from this addiction. The opportunity to offer medical care that is so desperately needed for people to live their “best possible life” is exciting. Addiction care offerings have long produced less than adequate results for patients. Awakn’s proprietary ketamine-assisted therapy will be a much-needed addition to Wellbeings present offerings to produce outstanding outcomes. People need effective and long-lasting treatments and hope that something better is available so that they can overcome their addictions with medical help available. Awakn has a proven effective treatment that will revolutionize and democratize AUD care and outcomes. Wellbeings is thankful and excited to be the first Canadian partner of offer this care.”
About Awakn Life Sciences Corp.
Awakn Life Sciences Corp. is a revenue-generating biotechnology company researching, developing, and commercialising therapeutics to treat substance and behavioral addictions. Awakn has a near-term focus on Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), a condition affecting 400m people globally for which the current standard of care is inadequate. Our goal is to provide effective therapeutics to addiction sufferers in desperate need and our strategy is focused on commercializing our R&D pipeline across multiple channels.
About Wellbeings® Pain Management and Dependency Clinic
Wellbeings® is a specialty, community-based medical clinic designed to meet the needs of people for pain, substance use disorder (SUD) for things such as opioids (OUD) and alcohol (AUD) as well as the comorbidity of mental health wellness (PTSD and anxiety). In the past decade, Wellbeings® has helped more than 2,000 families in our community. Wellbeings is focused on multidisciplinary, evidence based, best-practice, patient-centered care. Its funding comes from OHIP, third-party coverage through insurance providers and philanthropic benefactors. Our team of physicians are committed to developing a treatment plan and a set of measurable goals to produce positive and long-lasting results to improve quality of life.
The GenWell Project Awarded $761,000 Grant By Canadian Institute for Health Research
Funds will allow The GenWell Project expand research and programming aimed at improving Canadian's social health and wellbeing
TORONTO, Aug. 18, 2022 /CNW/ - The GenWell Project, in partnership with Simon Fraser University, the Institute for Social Connection, the Public Health Agency of Canada and several researchers from Canadian Universities, has received $761,000 in Federal funding from the Canadian Institute for Health Research to research and produce Canadian Social Connection Guidelines that will help Canadians build a better understanding of the impact of social ties to their health and wellbeing and its impact on building a healthier society. The project will allow our team to synthesize existing research on social connection, continue additional years of survey data collection about loneliness and social health as part of the Canadian Social Connection Survey, and convene experts from across Canada and around the world in the area of social health to develop Canadian Social Connection Guidelines, similar to those that have provided Canadians with physical and nutrition guidelines more than fifty years.
The project is led by Dr. Kiffer G. Card, an Assistant Professor with the Faculty of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University and Director of Research for the GenWell Project. "Canada has a strong history in leading the development of public health guidelines," says Card. "In 1942, Canada's first Food Guide provided public health guidance for wartime food rationing. Twenty years later, the Fitness and Amateur Sport Act launched a physical activity revolution that eventually resulted in the Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living. Regardless of the challenge, evidence-based guidelines have provided simple, easy-to-learn strategies for healthy living."
Last year, The GenWell Project, in partnership with Card, launched the inaugural Canadian Social Connection Survey - a nationwide survey about human connectedness in the time of COVID-19 and the post-pandemic period. The survey of nearly 3,800 Canadians from across the country examined the patterns of social connection among participants and highlighted the significant degree of social disruption as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic. The results showed approximately 50% of Canadians, across all demographics, experienced a clinically significant level of loneliness, that roughly 6% of Canadians were chronically lonely and highlighted that social isolation, disconnection and loneliness can impact us all at different stages of life and in various situations. Previous studies have demonstrated the danger of these high levels of social disconnection. In fact, social disconnection and loneliness are associated with an up to 50% increase in risk for premature death – which is higher than the impact of obesity, sedentary living, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and air pollution.
According to Pete Bombaci, Executive Director for The GenWell Project, "Most people don't recognize the negative implications of social isolation, disconnection and loneliness, or the critical role that social connection plays in their health and wellbeing. As such, social connection guidelines can help Canadians be more conscious and intentional about their social health, for their own benefit or in recognizing the role that each of us can play in the lives of other Canadians."
*** Pete Bombaci and Dr. Kiffer Card are available for interviews to discuss the development of Canadian Social Connection Guidelines and the importance of social interaction ***
In addition to allowing The GenWell Project to work on the Canadian Social Connection Guidelines and conduct the Canadian Social Connection Survey, the funds will also help the organization expand current initiatives, such as the upcoming GenWell Weekend and add new ones, including the upcoming first annual Canadian Human Connection Conference, being held this October.
Established in 2016, The GenWell Project, a registered Canadian NFP, is a grassroots Global Human Connection Movement whose mission is to make the world a happier and healthier place by educating, empowering, and catalyzing people about the importance of face-to-face social connection as a proactive step we can all take for our health, happiness, and longevity, as well as for those around us. We share information, research, tips, tools and motivation through our social channels and our website to help people create healthy connection habits starting today. We activate around two weekends a year, in the spring and fall, when we want to be the catalyst that gives people permission to reach out and get connected face-to-face with family, friends, neighbours, classmates and colleagues. www.GenWellProject.org
SOURCE The GenWell Project
Canada's 2030 climate targets achievable if Canadians move to more plant-based diet
New World Animal Protection report produced by Navius Research studies the impact of animal agriculture and meat consumption on Canada's 2030 and 2050 climate targets.
TORONTO, Aug. 18, 2022 /CNW/ - As concerns grow about Canada's ability to hit its 2030 climate targets, World Animal Protection, in conjunction with Navius Research, is releasing a new report that shows if Canadians move from a high-meat consumption diet to a low-meat consumption one (a 50% reduction by 2030 and an 80% reduction by 2050), the impacts on greenhouse gas emissions would be significant enough to put Canada back on track to meet its 2030 and 2050 climate targets.
"The findings of this report should be a wakeup call for governments and Canadians alike," said Lynn Kavanagh, Farming Campaign Manager with World Animal Protection Canada. "Our diets are largely something that we can control and by moving to a more sustainable plant-based diet, we can all do our part in achieving a net zero society."
The Government of Canada has an important role to play in supporting Canadians to adopt more planet-friendly diets. Campaigns to promote the Canada Food Guide, for example, which is largely plant-based, and acknowledging animal agriculture as a major source of GHG emissions, are easy actions the government can take to start the transition towards sustainable eating.
This research is the first of its kind as it quantifies the true emissions from Canada's animal agriculture sector. Canada's emissions reporting accounts for emissions from feed production, fertilizer production and fertilizer use across various sectors, while these emissions should be attributed to animal agriculture to understand the true impact of this sector.
The report has also found if Canada's future animal consumption is lower, it will cost 11% less for the economy to comply with the 2030 emissions target compared to a future in which animal consumption remains at current levels. For the agriculture sector, that means $6.3 billion lower in 2030 and $12.5 billion lower in 2050.
World Animal Protection's Animal-sourced food consumption and Canada's emissions targets report uses a customized version of Navius Research's existing energy economy model, gTech, which simulates the effects of energy and climate policy on technology adoption, energy use, GHG emissions and the economy. The model was used to explore the impacts of shifting consumer food consumption patterns and their impacts on Canada's climate goals.
The impacts of meat consumption and animal agriculture on our climate are why World Animal Protection launched its Plan Meatless Better campaign this summer.
Canadians can go to planbetter.ca to answer a few questions about their eating habits and receive a personalized and customized plan and set of recipes tailored to their preferences.
Experts predict that without urgent and drastic shifts in global meat consumption, agriculture will consume the entire world's carbon budget necessary for keeping global temperature rises under 2°C by 2050.
SOURCE World Animal Protection
Statement from College of Nurses Council President Naomi Thick
TORONTO, Aug. 18, 2022 /CNW/ - At the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO), our purpose is clear: to protect the public through the promotion of safe nursing practice. This includes registering nurses with the knowledge, skill and judgment to practice safely in Ontario, whether educated in Canada or internationally.
Today we are pleased to respond to the Minister of Health, the Hon. Sylvia Jones, and propose new initiatives and regulatory changes which will add to our ongoing efforts to increase the number of new nurses available to the health care system.
CNO analysis of applicant data identifies how we can best focus our efforts to register more nurses. We have the potential to register 5,970 net new internationally educated nurse (IEN) applicants over the weeks and months to come. These applicants reside in Ontario and are actively working toward registration and therefore are potentially available to the health care system.
Our public protection mandate is as important as ever and we know by building on existing initiatives, leveraging Ministry leadership and actively collaborating with partners in government, academia and the health care system, we can register more nurses to practice safely in Ontario.
2022 is already a year of milestones for CNO, including registering a record number of IENs, and we look forward to building on this success.
CNO remains committed to partnering and collaborating with the Ministry of Health, our partners in the health care system and others to address this shared challenge.
SOURCE College of Nurses of Ontario
Rapid Weight Loss During U.S. Heat Wave Poses Increased Health Risks, Dietitian Says. How to Stay Safe?
Despite many people searching for suggestions regarding summertime weight loss, record-high temperatures in the U.S. suppose an increased health risk for intense fasting and exercise routines. A bariatric dietitian explains that a balanced diet and hydration are key during a heat wave.
August 16, 2022. Currently, 36.3 million people within the United States, or 11% of the population, reside in regions where severe heat levels are anticipated. Excessive heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the country, as high humidity in many areas makes it harder for the body to cool down, leading to dehydration, nausea, dizziness, and more.
Although there is plenty of advice on how to quickly slim down for the summer and attain a “beach body,” Dr. Karolina Bauraitė, a bariatric dietician at Nordbariatric Clinic — a leading international bariatric center for medical tourists in Kaunas, Lithuania — warns that a quick weight reduction might be dangerous in the current climate. She notes that staying hydrated and sticking to a balanced eating regimen is key for safely surviving the high temperatures.
Rapid summertime weight loss poses health risks
The concern with fast weight loss is that it usually takes extraordinary efforts in diet and exercise — efforts that could be unhealthy and are difficult to maintain as permanent lifestyle changes. A multitude of negative effects — including headaches, nausea, and dizziness — can arise from losing weight too rapidly, especially when starvation techniques are used.
“One of the main risks is dehydration. Ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial. Sweating becomes more intense in the summer, which is one of the ways in which the body loses fluids,” explained Dr. Bauraitė. “Failure to meet nutrient requirements can also expose the patient to malnutrition or the risk of it. At any time of the year, it is important to choose a balanced diet that supports health. It is also advisable to enrich the diet with specific vitamins and minerals when needed, such as after gastric reduction surgery.”
In general, rapid weight loss has also been linked to higher rates of gallstone formation. As the liver produces more cholesterol for the bile during fasts or longer starvation periods, it interferes with the gallbladder’s ability to empty properly.
Maintaining a health-friendly routine is key
Since rapid weight loss poses possible health risks, Dr. Bauraitė suggests having a nutritious diet instead.
“Maintaining a food regimen is crucial. It is advised to have well-balanced main meals and 1-2 pre-planned snacks. Snacking haphazardly ought to be avoided, as snacks frequently mask the feeling of thirst. Therefore, getting enough liquids will not only stop dehydration but also stop weight growth.”
While diets should remain tailored to the individual patient’s needs and overseen by a professional, it is generally recommended to enrich the diet with vegetables and to maintain as much food variety as possible.
“It is advised to replace sugar-laden desserts or soft drinks with fresh berries and fruit. Sweet and fatty desserts can cause unpleasant symptoms in certain cases, so it is recommended to make them at home and include fresh berries or fruit as an alternative. It is also important to consume sufficient fluids, making sure to avoid alcoholic beverages,” concluded the expert.
-END-
ABOUT NORDBARIATRIC
Nordbariatric is a private bariatric surgery clinic in Kaunas, Lithuania, part of Nordclinic, offering high-quality services and focusing on foreign patients. It is equipped with modern diagnostic and surgical facilities. Medical professionals at the clinic speak fluent English and show personal attention to every patient. www.nordbariatric.com/en/
Abbott's FreeStyle Libre® 2 System Now Reimbursed in Quebec
Quebec joins Ontario and Prince Edward Island in offering access to both FreeStyle Libre and FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring technology
The addition of the FreeStyle Libre 2 system enables access for Quebec residents aged four and over who manage their diabetes (type 1 or type 2) with multiple daily injections of insulin
With a simple scan, the innovative FreeStyle Libre 2 delivers accurate, real-time glucose readings and alerts users when their glucose is too high or too low, without the need for routine finger pricks∞
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Aug. 16, 2022 /CNW/ - Abbott today announced that its FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring system* is now reimbursed under the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Quebec (RAMQ) for Quebec residents aged four and over who manage their diabetes (type 1 or type 2) with multiple daily injections of insulin~. Quebec was one of the first Canadian provinces to reimburse flash glucose monitoring technology and with the addition of FreeStyle Libre 2, families with children who are living with diabetes will have the opportunity to benefit from this important diabetes management tool.
The FreeStyle Libre 2 system represents a significant advancement in diabetes management for Canadians. The sensor, which is the size of a Canadian Toonie, is worn on the back of the upper arm for up to 14 days. It measures glucose every minute to help people living with diabetes and their healthcare team make informed treatment decisions. With a one-second scan of a smartphone using the FreeStyle Libre 2 app,α users can see their glucose reading, trend arrow and eight-hour history. Using Bluetooth technology, the FreeStyle Libre 2 system can automaticallyπ alert users when their glucose is too high or low without needing to scan the sensor. Users can also share data with their family members via the LibreLinkUp mobile app.ύ
"The best healthcare solution is the one that helps the most people, which is why we designed our FreeStyle Libre portfolio with access and affordability in mind from the very beginning," said Philippe Busque, general manager of Abbott's diabetes care business in Canada. "Reimbursement of the FreeStyle Libre 2 system in Quebec is an important step toward helping more people with diabetes get access and we continue to work with all provincial governments to improve access for all people with diabetes across Canada."
Abbott's FreeStyle Libre 2 system has outstanding accuracy1. No routine confirmatory finger pricks are required for treatment decisions, even when glucose is low, falling or rapidly changing. It has impactful real-world2 and clinical research,3,4,5,6 showing how the FreeStyle Libre system is associated with better glucose control7, decreased time in hypoglycemia3,4,5,6 and hyperglycemia3,4 more time in optimal glucose range,7 and improved HbA1C.2 When compared to traditional blood glucose monitoring, using a flash glucose monitor can improve the ability of an individual living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes to monitor and manage their chronic condition along with their healthcare team, which is key to better diabetes management and health outcomes.
"This is great news for those living with diabetes in Quebec," said Sylvie Lauzon, president and CEO, Diabète Québec. "Providing access to flash glucose monitoring can help improve a person living with diabetes' ability to self-monitor, which is key to better diabetes management, and which can really help improve the quality of life of people living with diabetes."
As the #1 sensor-based glucose monitoring system used worldwide,∂ Abbott's FreeStyle Libre portfolio has now changed the lives of more than 4 million people across more than 60 countries.≠
Quebec announced public reimbursement of the FreeStyle Libre for the province in 2019. Public coverage is currently available for the FreeStyle Libre system in Ontario,£ Quebec,¤ Prince Edward Islandµ and Yukon# for those that meet the criteria. Public coverage is currently available for the FreeStyle Libre 2 system in Ontario,££ Yukon,Ø Manitoba,ΩSaskatchewan,± Prince Edward Islandµ and now Quebec¤¤, for those that meet the criteria. The FreeStyle Libre and FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring systems are reimbursed by most private payers in Canada,√ and are available to be electronically adjudicated at pharmacies with a prescription.
The FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring system is indicated for measuring interstitial fluid glucose levels in people aged 4 years and older with diabetes mellitus. Always read and follow the label/insert.
To learn more about the FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring system, visit www.MyFreeStyle.ca.
About Abbott
Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 113,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.
∞ Finger pricks are required if your glucose readings and alarms do not match symptoms or expectations.
~ Those over the age of 4 and under the age of 18 who have type 1 diabetes are eligible for reimbursement. The system is also reimbursed for those 18 and older who manage their diabetes with insulin with three or more injections per day and who have had frequent episodes of hypoglycemia in the past year despite adhering to a blood glucose management plan.
α The FreeStyle Libre 2 app and the FreeStyle Libre 2 reader have similar but not identical features. Finger pricks are required if readings do not match symptoms or expectations. The FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor communicates with the FreeStyle Libre 2 reader that started it or the FreeStyle Libre 2 app that started it. The FreeStyle Libre 2 app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check the website for more information about device compatibility before using the app.
π Notifications will only be received when alarms are turned on and the sensor is within 20 feet of the reading device. You must have override do not disturb settings enabled to receive alarms and alerts on your smartphone
ύ The LibreLinkUp app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check www.librelinkup.com for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of LibreLinkUp and FreeStyle Libre 2 app requires registration with LibreView. The LibreLinkUp mobile app is not intended to be a primary glucose monitor: home users must consult their primary device(s) and consult a healthcare professional before making any medical interpretation and therapy adjustments from the information provided by the app
∂Data based on the number of users worldwide for the FreeStyle Libre system compared to the number of users for other leading personal-use sensor-based glucose monitoring systems.
≠ Data on file. Abbott Diabetes Care.
√Individual private drug plans can vary. Please check with your plan administrator and/or your insurance company.
* The FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring system is indicated for measuring interstitial fluid glucose levels in people aged 4 years and older with diabetes mellitus. Always read and follow the label/insert.
£ Ontario: For people [over 18 years of age] managing diabetes with insulin. FreeStyle Libre Executive Officer Notice, Ontario Ministry of Health. September 12, 2019.
¤ Quebec: For people who meet the following two criteria: over 18 years of age on intensive insulin therapy (insulin pump treatment or ≥ 3 insulin injections per day) and with frequent episodes hypoglycemia in the last year. List of Medications, July 10, 2019. Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). FreeStyle Libre Changement dans les critères de remboursement. April 29, 2020.
µ Prince Edward Island: For people on multiple daily injections of insulin (three or more) or using an insulin pump. Government of Prince Edward Island. June 1, 2022.
# Yukon: For people with type 1 diabetes. Permanent funding for glucose monitors available to adult Yukoners, Government of Yukon, September 14, 2020.
Ø Yukon: For people with type 1 diabetes. Government of Yukon Memo, April 22, 2021.
Ω Manitoba: For people 25 years of age or under with type 1 diabetes who meet criteria. Manitoba Drug Benefits and Interchangeability Formulary Bulletin #113. Manitoba Health and Seniors Care. September 28, 2021.
± Saskatchewan: For children and youth under the age of 18 who meet criteria. Saskatchewan Formulary Bulletin #201. Saskatchewan Heath. June 1, 2021.
¤¤ * Quebec: For self-monitoring of blood glucose in diabetic persons aged four and over. Upon the initiation of treatment, the person: under age 18 must be suffering from type 1 diabetes; age 18 and over must meet the following two criteria: intensive insulin therapy (treatment by insulin pump or ≥ 3 insulin injections per day); and frequent episodes of hypoglycemia in the last year, despite compliance with a glycemic management plan. The initial request is authorized for a period of six months to assess the ability of patients to use FreeStyle Libre 2™ and wear the sensor. Requests for continuation of treatment are authorized for a maximum period of 12 months if the person shows optimal use of FreeStyle Libre 2™ or FreeStyle Libre™, i.e. at least 70% of the time.
√ Individual private drug plans can vary. Please check with your plan administrator and/or your insurance company.
REFERENCES
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1 Alva S, Bailey T, Brazg R, et al. Accuracy of a 14-day factory-calibrated continuous glucose monitoring system with advanced algorithm in pediatric and adult population with diabetes. J Diabetes Sci Technol 2020:1-8.
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SOURCE Abbott Diabetes Canada
Zen Rohatsu Invites Readers to Follow Buddha’s Path to Enlightenment
Philadelphia, PA, August 16, 2022 — Could an ancient practice hold the key to dealing with today’s stressors? Zen meditation practitioner Nora D’Ecclesis opens her new book, Zen Rohatsu, with a guided visualization that places readers at the time of the Buddha, under the sacred fig tree, as he sought to obtain enlightenment.
“Buddha was a man who found his enlightenment and set his path, avoiding suffering by controlling his thoughts and desires,” wrote D’Ecclesis. “He was not and is not considered a deity.”
And with this historical perspective into how the concept of Buddhist enlightenment emerged, D’Ecclesis sets the stage for Zen Rohatsu, which provides thoroughly researched insights into the origins of meditation, its rituals and the ways in which living mindfully can be transformative. Included are simple meditation techniques, such as postures, breathing exercises and the use of mala beads.
Written for anyone wanting to cultivate a deeper sense of mindfulness and spirituality — from beginners to advanced meditation practitioners — Zen Rohatsu guides readers down the proverbial path of enlightenment.
“Zen Rohatsu is a microcosm of Zen meditation which best explains why we meditate and why most should consider this spiritual practice,” D’Ecclesis said. “I sat to outline a story about my spiritual practice, which I wrote from the memory of my own experiences as a lay meditator. The result is this book.”
The book explains that Rohatsu is a spiritual practice of meditative zazen that occurs on the eighth day of the twelfth month on the Gregorian calendar. The meditation sessions, which focus on Zazen Meditation rather than scriptures or rituals, are celebrated for seven days in advance of December 8 by Zen practitioners all over the world. Zen Rohatsu will help readers understand this type of meditation and how it might help them.
D’Ecclesis also added: “Zazen, a Japanese style dating back to the Buddha, is a meditation that keeps us in the present with focus, equanimity and stress management by clearing our thoughts from the various anxieties that permeate them. We turn off the chatter in our own heads and establish a place of compassion. We all experience interoceptive responses to the stressors and suffering and even the great joys in life, as all sentient beings do, so the balance of meditation and concept of equanimity are a welcome alternative.”
Nora D’Ecclesis is an American bestselling nonfiction author and Haiku poet. Her international No.1 bestseller The Retro Budget Prescription held the top spot in Kindle book downloads for the business/self-help category for over a year. She is a graduate of Kean University of New Jersey with post graduate degrees in administration and education. Her other published nonfiction includes Amazon No. 1 bestseller Haiku: Natures Meditation and paperbacks/eBooks on such topics as time management, guided visualizations, gratitude/equanimity, journaling and Zen meditation.
For more information about the author, visit https://noradecclesis.com/, or follow her on Twitter at @DECCLESIS or on Facebook at NoraDEcclesis.
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