OTTAWA, Dec. 9, 2019 /CNW/ - Due to ongoing confusion amongst the general public regarding Hospice Palliative Care (HPC) and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA) and the Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians (CSPCP) would like to clarify the relationship of hospice palliative care and MAiD.
Healthcare articles and the general media continue to conflate and thus misrepresent these two fundamentally different practices. MAiD is not part of hospice palliative care; it is not an "extension" of palliative care [i] nor is it one of the tools "in the palliative care basket".[ii] National and international hospice palliative care organizations are unified in the position that MAiD is not part of the practice of hospice palliative care.[iii] [iv] [v] [vi] [vii] [viii] [ix] [x]
Hospice palliative care and MAiD substantially differ in multiple areas including in philosophy, intention and approach.[xi] Hospice palliative care focuses on improving quality of life and symptom management through holistic person-centered care for those living with life threatening conditions. Hospice palliative care sees dying as a normal part of life and helps people to live and die well. Hospice palliative care does not seek to hasten death or intentionally end life. In MAiD, however, the intention is to address suffering by ending life through the administration of a lethal dose of drugs at an eligible person's request.
Less than 30% of Canadians have access to high quality hospice palliative care, yet more than 90% of all deaths in Canada would benefit from it.[xii] [xiii] Despite this startling discrepancy, access to hospice palliative care is not considered a fundamental healthcare right for Canadians. In contrast, MAiD has been deemed a right through the Canada Health Act, even though deaths from MAiD account for less than 1.5% of all deaths in Canada.[xiv]
We call on the federal and provincial governments to prioritize funding and improve access to hospice palliative care in Canada, and to support the implementation and action plan of the National Framework for Palliative Care in Canada.[xv] Canadians must have a right to assistance in living with hospice palliative care, and not just a right to termination of life.
Sincerely,
(signed) Sharon Baxter, MSW, Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA)
(signed) Leonie Herx MD PhD FCFP (PC), Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians (CSPCP)
___________________________________ [i] Buchman, Dr. Sandy. "Bringing Compassion to Medicine and to the CMA." Canadian Medical Association, 12 Oct. 2019, https://www.cma.ca/dr-sandy-buchman. [ii] Kutcher, Dr. Matt. "Navigating MAiD on PEI." Canadian Medical Association, 19 Nov. 2018, https://www.cma.ca/dr-matt-kutcher. [iii] World Health Organization (WHO). "WHO Definition of Palliative Care." World Health Organization (WHO), https://www.who.int/cancer/palliative/definition/en/. [iv] De Lima L, Woodruff R, et al, International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care "Position Statement Euthanasia and Physician-Assisted Suicide." JPM Vol 20, 1:1 -7. [v] Radbruch, Lukas, et al. "Euthanasia and Physician-Assisted Suicide: A White Paper from the European Association for Palliative Care." Palliative Medicine, vol. 30, no. 2, 2015, pp. 104–116., doi:10.1177/0269216315616524. [vi] Australia and New Zealand Society of Palliative Medicine (ANZSPM) "Position Statement on the Practice of Euthanasia and Physician Assisted Suicide." 31 Mar. 2017 [vii] Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association "Policy on Hospice Palliative Care and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD)." Jun. 2019 [viii] Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians "Key Messages: Palliative Care and Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)." May 2019. [ix] "Statement on Physician-Assisted Dying." American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM), 24 Jul. 2016, http://aahpm.org/positions/pad. [x] Canadian Medical Association. "Palliative Care (Policy)." 2016 [xi] Shariff M & Gingerich M. "Endgame: Philosophical, Clinical and Legal Distinctions between Palliative Care and Termination of Life." Vol. 85, Second Series Supreme Court Law Review 225. 2018 [xii] Quality End-of-Life Care Coalition of Canada and Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association. "The Way Forward National Framework; a Roadmap for an Integrated Palliative Approach to Care." Mar. 2015. [xiii] Canadian Society of Palliative Care Physicians . "How to Improve Palliative Care in Canada - A Call to Action for Federal, Provincial, Territorial, Regional and Local Decision-Makers." Nov. 2016. [xiv] "Fourth Interim Report on Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada." Government of Canada, Health Canada, Apr. 2019, https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/health-system-services/medical-assistance-dying-interim-report-april-2019.html. [xv] "Framework on Palliative Care in Canada." Government of Canada, Health Canada, 4 Dec. 2018, https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/health-care-system/reports-publications/palliative-care/framework-palliative-care-canada.html.
SOURCE Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association
Psychologist Offers Your Resolution Free Guide to a Happier, Healthier You in 2020
With the start of a new year it is important to reflect back on the prior year, assess what went well, what didn’t and decide where you want to go next. It takes a lot of mental toughness, self-love, and discipline to create the life you want. Simply coasting along on cruise control reacting to life can lead to victim mentality and stagnation. Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist. She shares key ways to get mentally fit for the new year so you can move forward successfully. In doing so, you don’t have to swear yourself to resolutions and feel like a failure if you don’t achieve them. Just think about the life you want to create and take small steps.
\Clear clutter.
Look at your surroundings. If you have junk drawers galore, a messy car, countertops and cabinets that are full of stuff you don’t even use, it is time to clear the clutter. According to Dr. Hafeez, “cluttered spaces reflect a cluttered mind. If you want to wipe the slate clean to allow room for new people and circumstances that serve you, you must get your mind clear. Many of my patients who describe themselves as anxious, stressed or even depressed say they feel better when they start clearing up their physical space.”
Eat mind-boosting foods.
Mental fitness also has to do with how well our minds work. A loss of memory or the ability to concentrate or focus can easily shift with an improved diet. “Research finds that along with other benefits, foods rich in Omega-3, such as some fish and nuts, as well as those full of antioxidants can help protect the brain from memory decline. “Eating more fish such as salmon and add fruits such as blackberries and blueberries to your diet can help. The good news is that brain-boosting foods include delicious options such as chocolate, guacamole (avocados) and sunflower seeds.
Color! The adult coloring book bandwagon is a good one to jump on. According to Dr. Hafeez coloring requires a total focus on the present. The repetitive motion of coloring provides relief from stress and anxiety by entering a meditative state. “Not everyone can sit still and breathe for 15 minutes per day, but they certainly can color. It’s absolutely a fun way to achieve mindfulness and shake off the day,” explains Dr. Hafeez.
Apologize and forgive.
A fast way to mental fitness is forgiveness! “Carrying around resentments and guilt wears us down and can lead to serious illness such as cancer or stroke. If you experienced a tough break up, divorce or perhaps the 2016 political climate led to arguments and lost friends, reach out apologize and seek forgiveness and move on. Remember, forgiveness doesn’t mean you condone hurtful behavior. Forgiveness frees you and the other person making it easier to move forward.
Learn something new.
Challenge your brain by learning a new language, how to cook, paint, do Tai Chi. Pick something you think would be interesting or useful to learn and learn it. If you avoided cooking your whole life, learning the basics will serve your brain very well. According to Dr. Hafeez, “the more we can activate the cognitive functions of our brains the better our short and long-term memory and hand-eye coordination will be.”
Plan and prepare more meals at home
Instead of committing to a strict diet, incorporate more home-cooked meals into your repertoire. Research shows that food made at home has less fat, calories, and sugar than meals eaten out, even if you’re not specifically trying to prepare and eat healthier meals.
Set a goal to make one new friend a month
As we get older we tend to get stagnant with our friendships and not reach beyond our formed circles anymore. Make an effort to engage the person you always see at your spin class or pass everyday in the hallway at your co-working space. Bringing new people into the fold can add spice and variety to your life.
Do something that scares you
Dr. Hafeez does not mean putting your life at risk. If public speaking has been a thorn in your side, take a class in it, and they put your lessons to use. If you would love to try snow skiing but have been too timid- take a lesson. Has the travel bug bit you but you don’t have a companion? Throw a dart at a map and travel (safety first) wherever the dart lands. It does not matter what you do, however big or small as long as you try something previously out of your comfort zone. One completed victory will give rise to another.
Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. a neuropsychological, developmental and educational center in Manhattan and Queens.
Dr. Hafeez masterfully applies her years of experience connecting psychological implications to address some of today’s common issues such as body image, social media addiction, relationships, workplace stress, parenting and psychopathology (bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, etc…). In addition, Dr. Hafeez works with individuals who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, attention and memory problems, and abuse. Dr. Hafeez often shares her credible expertise to various news outlets in New York City and frequently appears on CNN and Dr. Oz.
Innovative project launched using advanced digital technology to transform management of complex care for patients with heart failure
Continuum is a large-scale project developed by a partnership of CRCHUM, Greybox Solutions Inc., MEDTEQ and Boehringer Ingelheim Canada
MONTREAL, Dec. 9, 2019 /CNW/ - Montreal's innovation professionals are coming together to provide an advanced technological solution to help care more effectively for patients with heart failure and multiple other conditions such as diabetes.
Called Continuum, the research collaboration is led by the team of Dr. François Tournoux, a cardiologist and researcher at the Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM). The project seeks to understand how advanced digital technology can help health professionals and patients suffering from multiple serious medical conditions to jointly manage their treatment plan at home to reduce hospital readmissions. Continuum will also create a vast database that could be used by artificial intelligence (AI) in the future to develop further care innovations.
The project has been developed by CRCHUM in partnership with Greybox Solutions Inc., a Montreal–based innovative business dedicated to providing digital solutions to improve people's lives; MEDTEQ, a pan-Canadian consortium funded by Quebec's Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation and designed to fast-track development in tandem with innovative health technology; and Boehringer Ingelheim Canada, a company committed to developing solutions beyond breakthrough medication to improve health care and change patient experience.
Heart failure and diabetes are leading causes of hospitalization in Quebec and across Canada, with many patients often needing to return to hospital after being discharged. An important reason for this is the difficulty of maintaining at home the complex medical care these patients need on an on-going basis to manage the many symptoms and potential complications of their conditions.
Continuum will examine how digital technology can support health care professionals in managing these complex cases with the patient at home, while keeping treatment aligned with Canadian guidelines for management of heart failure and diabetes. In addition to optimizing care for most patients, the project will seek greater participation by them in their own care and will provide the tools for them to do so.
The first pilot phase of Continuum has been launched at the CHUM and will then be extended to other hospitals across Quebec. The Continuum project has established a rich and diverse ecosystem for patients, clinicians, researchers and technological and pharmaceutical professionals to come together to develop, assess and set up innovative tools for making a difference in the lives of patients suffering from chronic diseases. Partners in this multi-sector project have one goal: improve people's health around the world with an innovative technological solution.
This project takes advantage of the extensive Montreal-based expertise available in the diverse fields involved. It will create a number of new full-time positions in this emerging field of medical technology at both Greybox and the CHUM. Other full-time positions will be created through initiatives related to the partnership.
Quotes "Continuum is an innovative program that may change how we provide care for patients suffering from serious chronic diseases. Our goal is to improve their health, avoid rehospitalization and reduce the use of health care resources. This fascinating emerging technology and our multi-faceted partnership can help us reach our goal." – Dr. François Tournoux, cardiologist and researcher at CRCHUM and Continuum program leader
"The integration of new technologies is increasingly playing a prominent role in medical care and health care systems. To better meet patients' and citizens' needs, it is vital we make use of the potential of technology. With the Continuum research project we are paving the way with our partners not only to improve complex health care but also improve the patient experience and strengthen the partner-patient role." – Dr. Fabrice Brunet, CEO, CHUM
"Continuum has applied the TAKECARE technology that Greybox has been developing since its inception in 2013. We are pleased to know that Montreal-based patients are benefitting from our technology. We are sure that the technology will not only provide better results for patients but also better results for our health care system." – Pierre Bérubé, CEO and Founder, Greybox Solutions Inc.
"High-quality care delivery for patients suffering from serious chronic diseases requires excellent teamwork on behalf of the patient and care team. MEDTEQ wishes to promote collaboration that makes a difference in our health care system. Continuum is an example of key partners collaborating to make a difference by using engaging new technology." – Diane Côté, President and CEO, MEDTEQ
"As a family-owned business, Boehringer Ingelheim is constantly fine-tuning transformative health care solutions that not only help patients and their families but also provide the health care system with more efficient care. Our partnership with Continuum plays a key role in our commitment to foster innovative change and improve the health of Canadians." – Andrea Sambati, President and CEO, Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd.
"This unique partnership brings together the driving forces of the biopharmaceutical, research and digital health sectors to develop innovative solutions to solve chronic health problems that affect many Quebecers. This project will significantly increase the quality of care provided to the population and demonstrate once again the expertise, innovative capacity and excellence of the Québec life sciences industry." – Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of Economics and Innovation
Heart failure and diabetes More than 600,000 Canadians and 160,000 Quebecers suffer from heart failure, a complex chronic illness characterized by the inability of the heart to pump enough blood throughout the body.1,2 Heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalization in Canada and Quebec.3 Even with a treatment plan, one in five patients (21 per cent) hospitalized for heart failure treatment are re-admitted within 30 days of discharge.4 In 60 per cent of cases, the main reason heart failure patients are rehospitalized is due to other conditions.5
CRCHUM The Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM) is one of North America's leading hospital research centres with a mission to improve adult health. The research continuum focuses on fields such as basic life sciences, clinical research and public health. Over 1,850 professionals work at CRCHUM, including 542 researchers and 719 students and research interns. For more information, visit chumontreal.qc.ca/crchum@CRCHUM.
Greybox Solutions Inc. Greybox Solutions Inc. is a growing Montreal–based business specializing in health technology, specifically innovative software development to improve patients' lives. Its mission is to find digital transformation solutions to meet the many health care system challenges and reduce payers' heavy load with respect to managing chronic illnesses.
As part of its digital distribution strategy, Greybox works actively with strategic partners to make integration of electronic medical files and other existing systems easier. Greybox distributes TAKECARE, its digital health platform, to redefine the relationship between patients and its health care team.
Greybox has committed itself to integrating with major international IT systems, making a name for itself through its distribution networks, and interfacing with private and public reimbursement processes. For more information, visit greybox.ca.
MEDTEQ MEDTEQ is a pan-Canadian consortium for industrial research and medical technology innovation. The MEDTEQ mission is to accelerate the development of innovation technology solutions to improve patients' health and quality of life. MEDTEQ supports the validation and integration of health care system solutions and their impact on the local and international scale, bringing together complementary skills from industrial, university, and health care provider partners.
MEDTEQ is financially supported by the provincial government, the federal government through its Centres of Excellence for Commercialization and Research (CECR), the private sector, and various partners to promote research and industrial relationships. For more information, visit medteq.ca.
Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. Improving the health of humans and animals is the goal of Boehringer Ingelheim, a research-driven pharmaceutical company. In doing so, the focus is on diseases for which no satisfactory treatment option exists to date. The company therefore concentrates on developing innovative therapies that can extend patients' lives. In animal health, Boehringer Ingelheim stands for advanced prevention.
Family-owned since it was established in 1885, Boehringer Ingelheim is one of the top 20 companies in the pharmaceutical industry. Some 50,000 employees create value through innovation daily for the three business areas of human pharmaceuticals, animal health and biopharmaceuticals. In 2018, Boehringer Ingelheim achieved net sales of around 17.5 billion euros. R&D expenditure of almost 3.2 billion euros, corresponded to 18.1 per cent of net sales.
As a family-owned company, Boehringer Ingelheim plans in generations and focuses on long-term success. The company therefore aims at organic growth from its own resources with simultaneous openness to partnerships and strategic alliances in research. In everything it does, Boehringer Ingelheim naturally adopts responsibility towards mankind and the environment.
The Canadian headquarters of Boehringer Ingelheim was established in 1972 in Montreal, Quebec, and is now located in Burlington, Ontario. Boehringer Ingelheim employs approximately 600 people across Canada.
5 Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux du Québec, MED-ÉCHO, Fichier des hospitalisations – 2009-10, and Canadian Institute for Health Information, Discharge Abstract Database, 2010-11.
SOURCE Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd.
5 Training Tips to Protect Against Strained Muscles
When it comes to injuries, muscle strain is among some of the most unpredictable, yet most common. Whether you’re exercising, working, or simply going about your daily routine, one wrong move could result in sudden pain.
Muscle strain is mostly prevalent in those who exercise and train a lot. Despite the randomness of muscles strain causes, there are plenty of things you can do to help prevent muscle strain.
Warm Up First
One of the most common causes of muscle strain is working out without warming up first. Warm ups don’t have to be anything tricky. In fact, they should be something simple. They can be anything, like a walk around the block or mild stretching.
Some people actually think that the more rigorous the exercise, the less likely they’ll develop muscle strain. This is not true as your muscles will become inflamed after an intense workout. Inflammation opens the door for many potential problems with not only your muscles, but your joints and ligaments as well.
Build Muscle Tone
Another common reason for muscle strain is muscles that aren’t quite strong enough for the task at hand. Similar to inflammation, weak muscles are also at risk of developing muscle strain such. One wrong move and it will be very painful to lift your arm for a few days.
A surefire way to prevent muscle strain is to build muscle. Keep in mind that muscle growth doesn’t happen overnight. It takes dedication, commitment, and effort to have effect. Remember to take things slow as you do so.
Improve Endurance
Everyone has a limit of how much they can endure, but with enough time and dedication, your endurance will gradually improve. Overexerting yourself is something you should always avoid as it can cause other problems aside from muscle strain. As with building muscle, it’s crucial you take things slow and pace yourself.
Consider Your Exercise Method
Not everyone can perform all types of exercise, so be sure to exercise within your limits. Going beyond you’re able to do can be risky, so never push yourself. If you have trouble deciding what type of exercise is right for you, consult your doctor.
Choose the Right Exercise Gear
Having the right gear can also help prevent muscle strain. While the gear you need will depend on your activity, using the correct recommend equipment will prevent more injuries that just muscle strain. To prevent muscle strain specifically, consider using compression gear over whichever muscles are at risk for strain. Runners many want compression pants, and those working their arms may want an upper arm sleeve.Muscle strain can become very uncomfortable and painful. However, by taking the right precautions, you’ll be able to train without having
President and CEO of SE Health Wins First-Ever 'Women-Led Business' Award at the Markham Board of Trade, Business Excellence Awards
Innovative President and CEO, an example for leaders in all industries and a champion for home care – leading SE Health's commitment to helping people live and age well at home today and into the future
MARKHAM, ON, Dec. 5, 2019 /CNW/ - Shirlee Sharkey is a woman on a mission; to make people feel their best – at home. She's been leading this mission for almost three decades. Last Thursday, Sharkey, a long-time advocate for home care and a lover of dogs (go figure) was honoured with the first-ever 'Women-Led Business' award at the Markham Board of Trade, Business Excellence Awards.
Women have been leading SE Health (formerly Saint Elizabeth Healthcare) – a national, not-for-profit, social enterprise that specializes in home care, senior's living and family caregiving – since its inception over 110 years ago. In 1908, four nurses came together in Toronto to establish Saint Elizabeth Visiting Nurses Association; where they provided care to the poor, new moms and babies, and others in need. Today, women continue to represent SE Health in extraordinary roles across the organization.
Sharkey is at the helm of that leadership. As a pioneer and futurist – known for empowering people at every turn and 'keeping it real' – Sharkey has a track record for leading excellence in home care and for implementing health innovation and digital technology to enhance care and the human experience.
"I am thrilled to win this award surrounded by my amazing colleagues, in a region I proudly call home," said Shirlee Sharkey, President and CEO at SE Health, who sees the growing need for home care services in York Region and says it's a privilege for SE Health to meet and exceed these care needs.
"Today, with over 9,000 leaders of impact, we have many influential and powerful women at all levels of the organization – from the frontlines, to administration and beyond," added Sharkey. "Through 21,000 care exchanges daily and nationally, we are Spreading Hope and Happinessat home, and providing exceptional customer service and care to our clients," added Sharkey. "Thank you to the Markham Board of Trade for this tremendous honour."
In addition to leading SE Health, Sharkey, a 'fearless firecracker' from Windsor, Ontario, serves on many boards, including Excellence Canada, Canadian Frailty Network and University Health Network.
Sharkey's greatest advice for other women leaders on a mission: "move forward boldly, wearing your most comfortable shoes; and take the people with you – the people are always the starting point, the middle and most certainly the end."
About SE Health SE Health is a not-for-profit social enterprise applying knowledge, vision and drive to impact how people live and age at home, today and into the future. With Canadian roots and 110+ years of expertise, the organization brings quality excellence and innovation to home care, seniors' lifestyle, and family caregiving. Through its team of 9,000 Leaders of Impact, SE Health delivers 21,000 care exchanges daily, totaling 50 million in the last decade alone. Visit us online at sehc.com
SOURCE SE Health
NY NOW® WINTER 2020 MARKET CELEBRATES COMMUNITIES, ARTISTIC EXPRESSION AND CURATED EXPERIENCES
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (December 5, 2019) – NY NOW®, the definitive Market for Home, Gift, Handmade + Lifestyle, Winter 2020 market is presenting three distinct brand communities that will evoke discovery and embrace the affinity for lifestyle buying. Taking place Saturday, February 1- Wednesday, February 5 at the Jacob K Javits Center in New York, NY NOW will showcase the most influential portfolio of brands and products in Design, Sustainability and Wellness - ultimately creating an immersive environment to inspire and educate independent retailers who are looking to activate a new community of brands within their store.
“The upcoming Winter 2020 edition of NY NOW is all about embracing our communities of brands and products with the goal to stimulate, energize and inspire retailers and media alike. At this market, we will introduce new and relevant brands across the many lifestyle product categories NY NOW offers,” says Ilene Shaw, Shaw & Co. Productions and NY NOW’s curator. “We continue to evolve and invigorate the NY NOW market as a leading resource for the industry, and we strive to support discovery and the tremendous excitement and momentum centered around lifestyle buying,” added Shaw
Accent on Design: The home and gift industry’s leading resource for innovative, forward-thinking design, Accent on Design®, presents a juried curation of both established and emerging brands that embody unique concepts, embrace form and function, and inspire change through new product launches. From furnishings and decorative accessories to audio accessories and state-of-the-art kitchen gadgets, Accent on Design presents an unrivaled collection across all categories of product. Current, featured brands include:Ameico, American Design Club, Atlantic Folk, CDMX, Chen Chen + Kai Williams,Eastern Accent, Saikai, Sweet Bella, Studio Roof, Tedzukuri Atelier, Umbra, w&p, Yamazaki
Sustainability: Recognizing and embracing the community of brands that live, breathe and incorporate sustainability into their project lifecycle are celebrated throughout the NY NOW market, but particularly within the HANDMADE Collection. This Winter 2020 market a cohesive, eco-friendly representation throughout the Handmade® Designer Maker, Artisan Resource® and Handmade® Global Design sections will present the industry with progressive brands who are promoting awareness and driving change for a more sustainable future of fashion.
Wellness: NY NOW’s continued commitment to this ever-growing industry sector is in full display this Winter 2020 market. Sitting within the elevated environment of Lifestyle, thousands of retailers and spas can expect to discover a dramatically expanded Wellness section. This collection will feature emerging and established must know brands from innovative beauty, CBD and apothecary to state of the art supplement/natural health products, and everything in between. IndieNOW is a beautifully curated, open environment within Wellness that amplifies the new and emerging brands in the ever-changing beauty and personal care space.
For your convenience, the upcoming WINTER 2020 dates will be staggered to ensure you experience everything NY NOW® has to offer: Handmade: Saturday, February 1 - Tuesday, February 4 Home and Lifestyle: Sunday, February 2 - Wednesday, February 5 National Stationery Show (NSS®) and SURTEX® Show: Sunday, February 2 - Wednesday, February 5
Media Registration NY NOW is now open - Click Here to register. Note to Editors:NY NOW is pleased to announce a new, comprehensive media resource center focused on enhancing the pre-show, onsite and post-show experience for our members of the media Please contact: Beth Cowperthwaite at beth.cowperthwaite@emeraldexpo.com with all media inquiries, interview requests and editorial opportunities open to NY NOW exhibitors.
Calling all Bloggers & Social Media Influencers! Interested in submitting a request to be part of NY NOW’s Winter 2020 Blogger Community at the show? Click Hereto apply
To make plans for upcoming markets, visit the NY NOW’s website and keep up-to-date on all information by visiting NY NOW on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
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About NY NOW:
The winter 2020 edition of NY NOW®, the Market for Handmade, Home and Lifestyle, will take place February 1-5, 2020 at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. NY NOW features three comprehensive collections - HOME, LIFESTYLE and HANDMADE - that encompass tens of thousands of products in hundreds of product categories. NY NOW is owned by Emerald Expositions, a leading operator of business-to-business trade shows in the United States. The company currently operates more than 55 trade shows, as well as numerous other face-to-face events. In 2019, Emerald’s events connected over 500,000 global atte
South Australian researchers are closing in on the world’s first peanut allergy vaccine after winning funding to propel their project towards human trials.
Picture: Craig Nagy.
The peanut vaccine has been created by Australian biotechnology company Sementis in collaboration with the University of South Australia’s Experimental Therapeutics Laboratory.
It was formulated by packaging peanut proteins into the Sementis Copenhagen-vectored (SCV) virus platform.
Researchers at the University of South Australia in Adelaide helped develop the scalable and stable SCV platform system.
Lead researcher Dr Preethi Eldi said while animal trials had shown a long-lasting response to peanut allergy the latest grant of almost $AU40,000 would be used to evaluate the efficacy of the vaccine in humans.
She said human trials would begin in early 2021.
“This funding helps us to get the vaccine out there and move forward into clinical trials,” Dr Preethi said.
“We need it to be particularly safe, so a kid can take it and then you can still send them off to school and you don’t have to keep them at home and monitor them after receiving the treatment.”
According to the World Allergy Organization, between 220 and 550 million people are affected by food allergies with peanuts being one of the most common.
In Australia, one in 200 adults have a peanut allergy and almost three in 100 children.
Dr Eldi said South Australian researchers were trying to address “the root cause of the reaction” and block the release of chemicals to prevent allergic reactions.
“Everybody’s looking for the cure for peanut allergy,” she said.
“But our vaccine is designed not just to provide a cure or treatment but also to prevent a peanut allergy occurring.”
Peanut allergies take place when the immune system mistakenly identifies peanuts as an allergen and signals immune cells to release chemicals, resulting in an allergic reaction.
Reactions can range from mild, such as hives, cramps, nausea and vomiting, to severe, such as impaired breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure and dizziness. In the worst cases, peanut allergies can cause life threatening anaphylactic reactions and death.
The vaccine, which has so far been trialled on mice and in the blood samples of humans, has been given in two instalments two months apart.
“Similar to how you would do your immunisations for kids,” Dr Eldi said.
“The clinical trial will give us more information as to what the right time period to give the vaccine is, but we are hoping that it’s going to be a ...
The hidden dangers of alternatives to sugar
The war on sugar has been well documented. Moves towards sugar taxes and similar legislation show that the demand to cut down on sugar has been growing. Many companies have answered this demand, and sought to avoid paying sugar taxes, by replacing the demonised sugar with far more publicly palatable sweeteners.
GlobalData food editor Callum Tyndall says: “Many sweeteners, such as aspartame, are artificial (something that doesn’t sit well with wellness-invested consumers) and there are still important questions to be asked around just how healthy these sugar alternatives really are.
“Earlier this year, we looked at whether sweeteners were actually healthy or safe and how they matched up to the claims made around them. The question now, as they continue to serve as the principal alternative to sugar and gain subsequent steam as the push against sugar continues, is just how do they fit into the wellness movement going forward and what else may be out there for the alternative market?
“The chances of sweeteners being harmful are low, studies into the field are yet to find indications of adverse health effects from using common sweeteners in normal amounts. This does not preclude further studies from finding such effects or placing more of a dent in the reputation of sweeteners (it is a field still relatively understudied), but consumers can at least feel fairly assured that their sweetener isn’t a hidden ill. They should, however, be asking themselves whether it is in fact an outright good.
“Many sugar replacements have been shown to actually be sweeter than sugar itself, without having the negative health effects (or have at least not yet been proven to have said effects).
“However, perhaps the greatest health concern when it comes to sweeteners, at least of the artificial kind, is that, due to their lack of nutrition, they may push consumers towards eating unhealthy items in some kind of recompense for the sugar they’ve avoided by using a sweetener. While consumers may be seeking to avoid the calorific dangers of sugar, they may, in fact, be placing themselves at a different kind of risk.
“Ultimately, while there is a strong chance that the sugar alternative market will continue to grow as consumer defect from table sugar, there is a good chance that the actual best choice from a health perspective is not to seek out an alternative, but simply to be mindful of consumption and employ regular portion control.”
AbbVie reaches an agreement with the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA) for SKYRIZI™ (risankizumab) for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic condition affecting 125 million people worldwide and many patients despite treatment still do not reach their goals or lose treatment response over time. 1-3
SKYRIZI™ is a novel, humanized immunoglobulin monoclonal antibody designed to selectively inhibit IL-23 by binding to its p19 subunit.4
On April 17, 2019, SKYRIZI™ received a NOC from Health Canada for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in patients who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy, based on results from clinical studies showing significant improvement in levels of skin clearance after just 16 weeks and at 52 weeks with every 3-month dosing in more than 2000 adult patients. 4
In May 2019, SKYRIZI™ received positive reimbursement recommendations from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) and the Institut national d'excellence en santé et en services sociaux (INESSS).
SKYRIZI™ is the first IL-23 inhibitor to arrive to a positive conclusion with the pCPA.
MONTREAL, Dec. 6, 2019 /CNW/ - AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV), a global, research and development-based biopharmaceutical company, announced an agreement was reached with the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA) regarding SKYRIZI™ (risankizumab) for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in patients who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.
"Although the introduction of biologics has improved treatment outcomes, many patients continue to live with their needs unmet. Patients strive for therapies that provide predictable and durable full skin clearance with convenient dosing. Ultimately, they want a therapy that improves their quality of life,'' Dr. Kim Papp, Probity Medical Research Inc. ''It is great news to know that more Canadians will have access to a new treatment option."
SKYRIZI™ received Health Canada approval in April 2019 based on results from four pivotal Phase 3 studies, ultIMMa-1, ultIMMa-2, IMMvent and IMMhance evaluating more than 2,000 patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.4 SKYRIZI™ is part of a collaboration between Boehringer Ingelheim and AbbVie, with AbbVie leading development and commercialization globally.
Canadians living with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis were well represented in all four of the pivotal clinical trials leading to Health Canada's approval, showing the Canadian leadership in this clinical development program. In clinical studies, SKYRIZI™ significantly improved levels of skin clearance after just 16 weeks and maintained clearance at one year (52 weeks).4
"We are committed to continuing to improve the lives of those living with psoriasis where there is still much to be done," explains Stéphane Lassignardie, Vice-President and General Manager, AbbVie Canada. "We are extremely proud that SKYRIZI™ is the first IL-23 inhibitor to reach an agreement with the pCPA. This is a great step forward for Canadians to obtain access to this innovative therapy."
About AbbVie Care The AbbVie Care program is designed to provide a wide range of customized services including reimbursement and financial support, pharmacy services, lab work reminders and coordination, personalized education and ongoing disease management support throughout the treatment journey. For more information, consult www.abbviecare.ca.
About AbbVie AbbVie is a global, research and development-based biopharmaceutical company committed to developing innovative advanced therapies for some of the world's most complex and critical conditions. The company's mission is to use its expertise, dedicated people and unique approach to innovation to markedly improve treatments across four primary therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, virology and neuroscience. In more than 75 countries, AbbVie employees are working every day to advance health solutions for people around the world. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.ca and www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvieCanada and @abbvie on Twitter or view careers on our Facebook or LinkedIn page.
GOODLIFE LAUNCHES NEW CORPORATE GIVING AND VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Company pledging up to $550,000 to match employee donations to over one million causes globally[London, ON] - On Giving Tuesday, GoodLife Fitness announced the launch of an all-new giving and volunteer program called GoodLife Gives. On the GoodLife Gives platform, employees are able to donate to over one million causes globally, and GoodLife will match their donations, up to $200 per fiscal year, dollar-for-dollar. Additionally, employees can earn "volunteer rewards" that go towards their $200 donation total. For every hour an Associate gives back to a charitable organization, their GoodLife Gives account will be loaded with $5 that can be donated back to any cause of their choice. In the spirit of the Giving Season, GoodLife has loaded each Associate's account with $25 to donate to any cause of their choosing on the platform within the first six weeks. "I love seeing the positive vibes and amazing energy our Associates bring when they are volunteering," said GoodLife Founder and CEO David Patchell-Evans. "They care deeply and know their efforts can make a difference. GoodLife Gives is empowering our team to continue to contribute to causes that are personally meaningful, whether that be donating time or donating dollars, with the additional support of the company behind them. I am looking forward to watching their goodwill roll out in their communities across the country." To bring this program to its Associates across the country, GoodLife has collaborated with Benevity, a Canadian company and global leader in online workplace giving solutions. GoodLife Gives is only one aspect of the company's expanding Corporate Responsibility Program. This Program has been developed to build on decades giving back and will help GoodLife make an even greater difference in Canadian communities from coast-to-coast. "Not only is giving back the right thing to do, but it also goes hand-in-hand with the Core Values that drive our business," said GoodLife President and COO Jane Riddell. "Of all the things I've done in my life, the thing that has meant the most to me is giving back to causes that I am passionate about. My hope is that our Associates feel empowered to become agents of change in the communities in which we live and work and that they take the opportunity to give back to the causes that matter most to them." Over GoodLife's 40 years in business, caring and giving back have been at the core of the company's purpose. GoodLife has contributed over $40 million to charitable causes and programs aimed at increasing access to physical activity and helping people live healthier, more fulfilling lives. This includes giving free gym access to over 40,000 youth each summer through our Teen Fitness program, contributing expertise and equipment to northern communities through Support the North, supporting autism research and treatments, investing in cardiac health and rehabilitation at University Health Network, and more. GoodLife is also active in Canadian communities, participating in hundreds of community events annually.
About GoodLife FitnessProudly Canadian since 1979, GoodLife is the largest group of fitness club chains in Canada and the fourth largest overall in the world. With almost 500 Clubs from coast-to-coast, over 11,000 employees and more than 1.5 million members, GoodLife is helping to transform the health and fitness of 1 in 25 Canadians every day. The GoodLife group of clubs includes: GoodLife Fitness, Fit4Less, and ÉconoFitness.
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