#HearNowON seeks Ontario secondary student input on school mental health
Online survey, forums part of "ground-breaking" initiative by School Mental Health Ontario to hear student voice
HAMILTON, ON, May 28, 2019 /CNW/ - School Mental Health Ontario - Santé mentale en milieu scolaire Ontario will engage secondary students across Ontario to hear student voices, improve youth engagement in school-based mental health programming, and inform a provincial student mental health leadership strategy. Through an online survey, and in-person forums, English and French students will have a voice in the development of mental health awareness and wellness promotion efforts in Ontario's publicly-funded schools.
Notes Dr. Kathy Short, Executive Director of School Mental Health Ontario, "Schools are an excellent place to promote student mental health, to build knowledge about social-emotional skills, and to identify and support students early who may struggle with a mental health problem. Young people have already let us know that they have something to say about how this happens in schools. That's why #HearNowON is ground-breaking — we will learn first-hand what secondary school students want to know about mental health, how they prefer to learn this information, and how they want to be engaged in mental health leadership. All of that can do so much to help us, and all Ontario school districts, to better promote the mental health of students."
The work of #HearNowON will be conducted with Wisdom2Action and the initiative protocols have been approved by the Dalhousie University Research Ethics Board so that findings can be summarized and shared widely.
The project is supported by the Ontario Student Trustees' Association (OSTA-AECO). Says Taylor Dallin, Operations Coordinator, OSTA-AECO, "Students want to learn more about mental health and mental illness. They want to know how to cope with stress, and how to recognize when things are starting to get off track, for themselves or their friends. They want to know how to help, and they want to get involved. #HearNowON is so important—we get to make a difference in this work. We really encourage every Ontario secondary student to make their voice heard".
Highlights Short, "While there are many products, speakers, and resources designed to support mental health awareness in schools, not all of these are evidence-based, co-created with youth, and aligned with the systematic work underway within Ontario school districts. School Mental Health Ontario is committed to the use of resources that are not only evidence-based and implementation-sensitive, but also student-centred. #HearNowON will help us to raise up the voices of students to inform the development and/or selection of mental health awareness, promotion initiatives and resources in coming years."
Says Short, "Our partners involved in this initiative, and more broadly across Ontario, are critical to the success of #HearNowON. School board mental health leadership teams, child and youth mental health organizations, and other education and health sector stakeholders understand the importance of supporting good mental health at school. They know the need for authentic youth voice to inform and complement existing evidence-based mental health promotion efforts."
#HearNowON Online Survey The online survey launches on June 3rd and will remain open until July 12th. The survey will be focused on student mental health knowledge needs and preferences. The survey can be accessed at https://www.wisdom2action.org/hearnowon/
#HearNowON Regional Forums Regional forums will provide an opportunity for students to think together about ideas for promoting student mental health in Ontario schools, and how students can be engaged as leaders in school-based mental health initiatives. Forums are taking place in London, Ottawa, Thunder Bay and Toronto. Mental health support will be available at all forums.
Thunder Bay – Saturday, June 1st
London – Saturday, June 1st:
Toronto – Saturday, June 8th
Ottawa – Saturday, June 15th
Those interested can follow the conversation on Twitter #HearNowON @SMHO_SMSO
School Mental Health Ontario works with Ontario school districts to support student mental health.
Wisdom2Action is a national social enterprise dedicated to youth engagement, knowledge mobilization and research
OSTA-AECO is the largest student stakeholder in Ontario education, representing approximately 2 million students in the public and Catholic schools in Ontario. The association also provides world-class professional development to student trustees across Ontario.
Note to media : Due to the sensitivity of the topic, the regional forums are not open to media.
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Allergan To Voluntarily Recall Textured Breast Implants in Canada
TORONTO, May 28, 2019 /CNW/ - Allergan Canada has made the decision to voluntarily recall textured breast implants from the Canadian market as a result of Health Canada's suspension of the BIOCELL® textured implant licence. Health Canada's decision is in contrast to public rulings and positions by other regulatory bodies and societies around the world, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) recent position. Allergan continues to stand firmly behind the benefit / risk profile of its breast implant products, and the Company plans to explore options to appeal this decision with Health Canada.
As part of this voluntary recall, any unused BIOCELL saline-filled and silicone-filled textured breast implants (medical device licences 3112, 72262, 72263, 87277 and 87279) will be removed from the Canadian market and no longer be sold. NATRELLE smooth implants and tissue expanders are not impacted by this licence suspension and voluntary recall.
Patient safety is Allergan's highest priority. This decision will raise many questions for Canadians who have textured breast implants. Patients are advised to have a thorough discussion with their plastic surgeon about the risks and benefits of their implant type should they have any concerns with their implants. Allergan is committed to working with Health Canada to implement a communications plan to inform surgeons, hospitals, government organizations, medical and healthcare professional associations and patient groups to ensure patient needs are met.
Should any Canadian patients or healthcare professionals have questions about BIOCELL® textured breast implants, you can contact our Medical Information team: MR-MedicalInformation@Allergan.com or 1-800-668-6424.
Health Canada's decision is not consistent with regulatory agencies and professional societies including the FDA, the Italian Ministry of Health, Spanish Ministry of Health, the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency, Argentina's National Administration of Drugs, Foods and Medical Devices, and the British Association of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), which have been systematically reviewing the status of textured breast implants in the context of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). These agencies and societies have determined that textured implants remain available to ensure that choice is not limited for surgeons and their patients. Specifically, they have stated that there is a need for more evidence gathering and information to make a fully informed determination regarding textured breast implants.
There continues to be no recommendation from any health authority, including Health Canadai and the FDA, for asymptomatic patients to have their textured breast implants removed or replaced prophylactically. As there is risk associated with all surgeries, patients are encouraged to discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare professional.
BIA-ALCL has been reported in patients with an implant history that includes Allergan's and other manufacturers' textured breast implants with various surface properties, styles, and shapes. As per Health Canada, the exact cause of BIA-ALCL is unknown.i
Whether mammaplasty, breast reconstruction or breast augmentation procedures; breast implants play a vital role in a patient's physical and psychological health. Surgeons need a variety of implant types to address the variable nature of breast anatomy and pathology to meet the needs of individual patients. With every medical procedure, there are benefits and risks. Allergan supports informed consent for patients.
"The safety profile of Allergan's breast implants is supported by extensive pre-clinical device testing and more than a decade of worldwide clinical use, as well as, a large number of peer-reviewed and published studies," said Dr. Carmen Enciu, Director, Chief Medical Office, Allergan Canada. "Allergan is committed to on-going evaluation, understanding and research surrounding breast implant effectiveness and safety."
About Allergan plc Allergan plc, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is a bold, global pharmaceutical leader. Allergan is focused on developing, manufacturing and commercializing branded pharmaceutical, device, biologic, surgical and regenerative medicine products for patients around the world.
Allergan markets a portfolio of leading brands and best-in-class products for the central nervous system, eye care, medical aesthetics and dermatology, gastroenterology, women's health, urology and anti-infective therapeutic categories.
Allergan is an industry leader in Open Science, a model of research and development, which defines our approach to identifying and developing game-changing ideas and innovation for better patient care. With this approach, Allergan has built one of the broadest development pipelines in the pharmaceutical industry.
Allergan's success is powered by our global colleagues' commitment to being Bold for Life. Together, we build bridges, power ideas, act fast and drive results for our customers and patients around the world by always doing what is right.
With commercial operations in approximately 100 countries, Allergan is committed to working with physicians, healthcare providers and patients to deliver innovative and meaningful treatments that help people around the world live longer, healthier lives every day.
For more information, visit Allergan's website at www.Allergan.com.
Forward-Looking Statement Statements contained in this press release that refer to future events or other non-historical facts are forward-looking statements that reflect Allergan's current perspective on existing trends and information as of the date of this release. Actual results may differ materially from Allergan's current expectations depending upon a number of factors affecting Allergan's business. These factors include, among others, the difficulty of predicting the timing or outcome of FDA approvals or actions, if any; the impact of competitive products and pricing; market acceptance of and continued demand for Allergan's products; the impact of uncertainty around timing of generic entry related to key products, including RESTASIS®, on our financial results; uncertainty associated with financial projections, projected cost reductions, projected synergies, restructurings, increased costs, and adverse tax consequences; difficulties or delays in manufacturing; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in Allergan's periodic public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including but not limited to Allergan's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 and Allergan's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2018. Except as expressly required by law, Allergan disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Throughout the decades, brow looks come and go. Full, bushy brows evoke 80s-era Brooke Shields. Super skinny brows scream the late 90s. Recently, the perfectly painted “Insta Brow” has been having a major moment.
For 2019, a more easy-going, lower-maintenance, the natural brow is trending. To achieve this look, we tapped brow guru Umbreen Sheikh for her best tips. As a licensed cosmetologist and Founder + CEO of Wink Brow Bar, Umbreen is a bonafide brow savant. Here’s how she – and her teams at Wink’s multiple locations in New York City, Brooklyn, and London – are helping clients live their best brow lives.
Umbreen Sheikh’s Top 6 Brow Tricks
1. Assume the position
While you might think you need to park yourself thisclose to the mirror to precision-groom your brows, that isn’t actually the case. “Standing too close can throw-off your brow proportions, and make you lose perspective on the overall shape,” says Umbreen. “For best results, stand at least one foot away.”
2. Break out the brush
Short on time? At the very least, give your brows a thorough brushing. Stroke up and over, and then anchor your arches with a dab of brow gel or clear mascara. (More on brow gel shade-selection below.) FYI, the Wink tool of choice has an angled side and a spoolie on one end, so consider investing in a brow brush of similar quality. You’ll be using it every day, so it will pay for itself in no time.
3. Select your ideal shade
Picking the perfect, slam-dunk shade of gel, pencil or powder is crucial, so this is where you need to spend real quality time. As a general rule, you’ll want to match your hair roots, which are typically one shade lighter than your brows. “Most women want their brows to add definition to their face, and not ‘read’ as harsh or aggressive,” says Umbreen. “Matching your brows to your roots does that.” With one exception, Umbreen cautions. “If you’re blonde, go a shade darker than your roots. Otherwise, you’ll look washed-out.” NOTE: If you opt for professional brow tinting, which lasts for up to four weeks and is among Wink’s most popular services, you can skip this shade-selection tip altogether. How easy is that?
4. Get a little nosey
One of the very best things about next-level brow grooming, whether you master it yourself or pop by Wink for professional assistance, is that it allows you to visually alter the shape of your nose. Thinner, wider – whatever nose look you’re after, beautiful brows can help you get there. If you’re opting for thinner, Umbreen recommends drawing an imaginary vertical line from the tip of your nose to the beginning of your brow and then focusing your shade-filling right there at the start. To make your nose appear wider, do the opposite and focus your shade-filling at the end of your brow, not the beginning.
5. Pencil (or powder) it in
Whichever shade format you choose, the absolute key to success is to follow the basic shape of your existing brow. Go easy, and only add color between hairs, as needed. “The idea is to shade, not ‘draw’ your brows on from scratch,” says Umbreen. “The goal is a soft, subtle look that lends definition. Straight, hard lines are to be avoided at all costs.”
6. Between brow appointments, “cheat” with concealer Pressed for time?If you can’t make it into Wink or carve-out 15 minutes to do a thorough DIY bathroom brow-grooming sesh, Umbreen recommends adding a dab of concealer on the most unruly hairs. “Whatever you do, resist the temptation to just yank them out,” she says. “Brows add so much structure and personality to your face that you really want to take your time, and groom properly. Or better yet, head to Wink, and let us help.”
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Peace and Embrowerment to all!
ABOUT UMBREEN SHEIKH, FOUNDER + CEO
The #BossLady of Brows, London-born / New York-based Umbreen Sheikh is on a mission to embrower every woman she comes in contact with.
A second-generation cosmetologist, Umbreen learned the ancient technique of threading from her mother, who owned several London salons. In transferring this centuries-old knowledge to her curious, capable daughter, little did Umbreen’s mother know that she was setting the stage for a brow-centric beauty empire.
Of course, there were plot twists along the way, namely Umbreen’s decision to attend University at King’s College London and obtain a degree in Biomedical Sciences. But it was a post-University move to Manhattan that would eventually bring Umbreen, full-circle, right back to brows.
After marrying in 2003 and relocating to New York with her seasoned financier husband, Umbreen spent time in the publishing world, as the PR Director for a niche magazine. Simultaneously, she was starting a family of her own. By 2011, she had two children. And once her tots were securely tucked away in school for most of their day, Umbreen knew it was time to get cracking on her career.
But what to do?
Like all visionary entrepreneurs, Umbreen started with what’s known in the biz world as a Need-Gap Analysis. What product or service was she – and busy, demanding, like-minded women just like her – missing?
It wasn’t long before Umbreen landed on next-level organic threading as the ultimate unmet beauty need. By 2014, she’d developed the concept for Wink Brow Bar. And ever since, she’s been in full-on growth mode – adding locations, services, and products at breakneck speed. Seguing from luxury threading studio to immersive beauty brand, today’s Wink is covering all the bases.
In addition to caring for her family and running her business, Umbreen is heavily involved in philanthropic endeavors. As a committee member of Developments In Literacy, she has helped educate 27,000 Pakistani girls. She is also a Lotus Circle Advisor for The AsiaFoundation, a non-profit organization committed to advancing the rights and opportunities for women throughout Asia.
Umbreen resides with her family in New York City.
Valens Signs Multi-Year Cannabis Extraction Agreement with Tantalus Labs
Kelowna, B.C., May 28, 2019 – Valens GroWorks Corp. (CSE: VGW) (OTC: VGWCF) (the “Company” or “Valens”), a multi-licensed, vertically integrated provider of cannabis products and services focused on various proprietary extraction methodologies, distillation, cannabinoid isolation and purification, as well as associated quality testing is pleased to announce that it has entered into an arm’s length binding multi-year extraction services agreement (the “Agreement”) to provide cannabis extraction services to Tantalus Labs (“Tantalus”), a leading British-Columbia-based cannabis producer.
The Agreement has an initial 2-year term from the date of the first shipment from Tantalus. Valens will process the cannabis biomass provided by Tantalus on a fee for service basis into premium quality resins and distillates using the Company’s leading proprietary extraction processing methods. The Agreement contains provisions under which it may be terminated with 180 days written notice after the one-year anniversary. Valens expects to receive and begin processing the first shipment from Tantalus early in fiscal Q3 of 2019 and currently holds all required licensing from Health Canada to carry out its obligations under the Agreement.
“Tantalus aspires to deliver unprecedented vaporization experiences to a discerning user base,” said Dan Sutton, CEO of Tantalus Labs. “Valens is absolutely our best in breed partner to formulate these experiences with.”
“We are honored to be recognized by Tantalus, one of the industry’s most respected players currently providing exceptional flower products to both medical and recreational users here in Canada,” said Tyler Robson, CEO of Valens GroWorks. “We look forward to working closely with the team at Tantalus as they broaden their product portfolio under the anticipated new regulations this fall.”
About Tantalus Labs Tantalus Labs is committed to Sungrown cultivation of world class cannabis products. Owned and operated in British Columbia, their team is a group of specialized scientists, engineers, and designers committed to the advancement of agricultural science. They believe that passion for natural, Sungrown cultivation methods will usher in a brighter future for clean cannabis.
About Valens GroWorks Valens GroWorks Corp. is a research-driven, vertically integrated Canadian cannabis company focused on downstream secondary extraction methodology, distillation and cannabinoid isolation and purification, as well as associated quality testing with three wholly-owned subsidiaries located in and around Kelowna, BC. Subsidiary Valens Agritech (“VAL”) holds a license to cultivate cannabis and produce cannabis oil under the Cannabis Act, as well as a license to conduct analytical testing for the cannabis industry. VAL currently has extraction processing and supply agreements with various leading producers across Canada. Subsidiary Valens Labs is a Health Canada licensed ISO 17025 accredited cannabis testing lab providing sector-leading analytical services and has partnered with Thermo Fisher Scientific to develop a Centre of Excellence in Plant Based Science. Subsidiary Valens Farms is in the process of becoming a purpose-built facility in compliance with European Union (EU) Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards, ensuring the product from this facility can be exported anywhere in the world where Cannabis is nationally legal for medical or adult usage purposes. For more information, please visit http://valensgroworks.com. The Company’s investor deck can be found specifically at http://valensgroworks.com/investors/
Physical Inactivity Pandemic - Evil of the Century
QUEBEC CITY, May 28, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The idea to produce a documentary was inspired by a 2014 article published in Maclean's magazine, which touted Quebec as one of the areas with the lowest levels of obesity in North America.
TALK Encounters, a Quebecois firm, is currently producing a documentary illustrating the growing problems caused by physical inactivity in today's youth. In the United States, over 36% of children under 12 years old suffer from obesity. We find the culprit to be physical inactivity and not junk food.
TALK Encounters
Karl Andre Talbot of TALK Encounters has been marketing advisor to the administrative counsel of PHIT America for the past 5 years. Recently, TALK Encounters has produced a series of films and videos for PHIT America. This American NPO has been devoted to fighting chronic inactivity in children throughout many schools for over 7 years now. PHIT America has offered GO Grants to over 600 schools rebuilding PE and other physical activity programs helping over 300,00 children become much more physically active. Recent studies have shown that by incorporating a daily physical activity (60 minutes/day) in schools, a striking impact is observed not only in the physical health of students, but also on their academic results, as well as their attention in class and the need for medication related to hyperactivity. PHIT America even managed to get the Personal Health Investment Today Act(PHIT Act) passed by the US House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress.
According to the WHO, if the situation does not change, more than 55% of the American population will be obese in 2045. Canada is not immune either. The financial burden of healthcare related expenses, medications, increase of illnesses, absenteeism and poor performance at work, are issues that could potentially devastate the economy.
Despite an increase in the obesity rate in Canada, Quebec has one of the lowest obesity rates in North America. The determining factor is undoubtedly the regular practice of physical activity in school settings and extra-curricular activities. Measures taken by the Quebec government, as well as campaigns such as Le Grand Defi Pierre Lavoie (LGDPL) achieve very positive results which fully represent the exact values that PHIT America promote to the American government.
Investing in physical activity programs for all schools demands sustained and well-choreographed efforts from numerous partners, both public and private. It is essential to apply efficient and valuable strategies and follow them diligently, as doing so is a major investment in our future. It is noteworthy to mention that only one quarter of 1% of the American military budget would suffice to finance all American schools to counter and even reverse the problem. Unfortunately, less than 50% of American schools receive assistance to favor physical activity in youths. As far as so-called elite schools, the annual budget is less than $800.00/school. What more is there to say?
The producers of TALK Encounters want to use implemented Quebec fitness strategies as a model to eradicate childhood obesity. Many Canadian/Quebecois and American athletes will bear witness to the impact that access to physical activity in school settings had on them. The documentary, currently in production, is set to premiere in 2020. It will be presented at different international film festivals, which will serve as our launching platform to demonstrate that our children's obesity is, in large part, avoidable. It is up to each and every one of us to make the required efforts to put in place school politics that favor the practice of physical exercise.
Finally - The Cravings Solution KETO, Low-Carb, Low-Sugar Dieters Have Been Waiting For
Made without wheat, dairy, soy, or added sugar, Good Dee’s baking mixes deliver full flavor to satisfy sweet cravings guilt-free!
NEW YORK – (May 27th, 2019): Great taste meets good health in a decadent line of low-carb, sugar-free Good Dee’s baking mixes. Born out of a love for baked goods and a passion for healthy living, Good Dee’s proudly uses only the highest-quality, innovative ingredients to deliver low-carb mixes with all of the flavor and no added sugar. Safe for gluten, soy and dairy-free diets, one woman’s lifelong quest to “have her cake and eat it, too” results in a KETO friendly solution the whole family will gladly devour.
For years, Good Dee’s creator and founder Deana Karim searched high and low for the perfect cookie. A lifelong struggle with weight gain and a family history of diabetes limited Karim to low-fat options, which lacked the full flavor of traditional baked goods while hiding some undesirable ingredients of their own. Unable to find an alternative that could satisfy sweet cravings and help maintain a healthy lifestyle, Karim resolved to create her own.
“I realized that if I kept depriving myself and thinking I was on a diet, I would fail,” explains Karim. “I embraced going low-carb and sugar-free and looked up alternative sweeteners. Through months of trial and error, I made a cookie that, after numerous taste tests, got a giant thumbs up.” With overwhelming approval by eaters of all different diets and lifestyles, Karim knew she had something special.
After the birth of Karim’s second child, she set to work launching Good Dee’s. The company featured a variety of baking mixes, from brownies to pancakes to cookies. A first-generation Middle Eastern immigrant who grew up watching her father start and run a successful business, Karim immediately took to entrepreneurship. Now with an expanded collection offering everything from cracker biscuit and grain-free cornbread to blondies and chocolate chip cookie one-bag mixes, Good Dee’s proves that a healthy lifestyle and good eats really do mix.
Shop the full line of mouthwatering grain, wheat, gluten and sugar-free mixes, including all-new coconut and lemon snack cake flavors, just $11.99 each at GoodDees.com. Also try the nut-free collection of brownies, cakes, and muffins. Learn more about this fast-growing company and its founder, Deana Karim, at GoodDees.com. Get inspired by innovative recipes and baking ideas to satisfy every craving on Instagram @GoodDeesMix.
About Good Dee’s:
Created and founded by native Texan-turned-New Yorker Deana Karim, Good Dee’s proves that health-conscious living and decadent indulgence really do mix. Give in to cravings guilt-free with Good Dee’s complete collection of baking mixes designed for low-carb, restricted, and special diets. The tasty solution to a lifetime of deprivation and struggle with weight gain, Good Dee’s offers innovative, full-flavor mixes free of gluten, soy, dairy, wheat, and added sugar. Also available in nut-free brownie, blondies, chocolate snack cake and muffin mix. Learn more and shop all flavors and varieties, priced at just $11.99 each, online at GoodDees.com. Find inspirational recipes and baking ideas on Instagram @GoodDeesMix.
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Fruit and vegetables lower risk of clinical depression
Increasing the amount of fruit and vegetables people eat lowers their risk of clinical depression, new research has found.
The study discovered that eating, for example, four extra portions of fruit and vegetables a day can boost people’s mental health to such an extent that it can offset half the negative psychological impact of divorce and a quarter of the psychological damage of unemployment.
Other studies have used people’s subjective responses to surveys to discover a link between eating fruit and vegetables with improved wellbeing.
But this is one of only a few studies that has found objective evidence of the association between fruit and vegetables and psychological health.
Redzo Mujcic, of Warwick Business School, author of the paper alongside Andrew Oswald, of the University of Warwick, said: “This is an interesting finding and makes the case for an empirical link between fruit and vegetables and improved mental wellbeing more powerful.
“The effect is not small as well. If people eat around seven or eight portions of fruit and vegetables a day the boost in mental wellbeing is as strong as divorce pushing people the other way, to a depressed state.
"We found being made unemployed had a very bad and significant effect on people’s mental health, greatly increasing the risk of depression and anxiety. But eating seven or eight portions of fruit and vegetables a day can reduce that by half.
"And the effect is a lot quicker than the physical improvements you see from a healthy diet. The mental gains occur within 24 months, whereas physical gains don’t occur until you are in your 60s.
“This is an important preliminary finding as governments and healthcare policymakers are currently more interested in the determinants of mental ill-health, such as clinical depression and high levels of anxiety, rather than people’s subjective assessment of their wellbeing as used in previous research.”
Dr Mujcic and Professor Oswald used data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, which has been done annually since 2001.
In it respondents are asked if they have been diagnosed with depression or anxiety along with several questions about their diet and lifestyles.
The study used a representative sample of 7,108 respondents who answered they had not been diagnosed with depression or anxiety in 2007, to see if their diet could predict their chance of depression two years later.
The results revealed an inverse relationship between fruit and vegetables and future depression or anxiety – ie the more fruit and vegetables people ate the less likely they were to be diagnosed with a mental illness in later periods.
“If people increase their daily intake of fruit and vegetables from zero to eight they are 3.2 percentage points less likely to suffer depression or anxiety in the next two years,” said Dr Mujcic.
“That might not sound much in absolute terms, but the effect is comparable to parts of major life events, like being made unemployed or divorced.
“We tested for reverse-causality – ie whether it might be that depression or anxiety leads to people eating less fruit and vegetables – but we found no strong statistical evidence of this.
“However, the next natural step is to do a randomised controlled trial to examine the causal relationship between diet and psychological wellbeing in society.”
BC PharmaCare Expands Use of Biosimilar Medicines
First Province to Implement Large-Scale Biologic Switching Program
TORONTO, May 27, 2019 /CNW/ - Biosimilars Canada, a national association representing Canada's biosimilar medicines industry, today congratulated the Government of British Columbia for announcing a program in which patients taking originator biologic drugs will be "switched" or transitioned by their clinicians to a biosimilar biologic drug within a six-month period.
Biologic medicines have revolutionized the treatment and prevention of many disabling and life-threatening diseases over the past 50 years, but they are also very expensive and are a significant driver of increasing prescription drug costs. Just 1.7 per cent of Canadian prescriptions were filled with biologic drugs in 2018, yet the cost of these prescriptions represented 29.9 per cent of Canada's total prescription drug costs that year.
Public and employer-sponsored benefit plans want to provide patients with access to innovative new medicines. Biosimilar medicines present an important way to manage costs while also supporting positive patient outcomes.
"Biosimilar medicines have an important role in supporting health care sustainability and patient care, and Biosimilars Canada congratulates the Government of British Columbia for its Canadian and North American leadership in promoting and expanding the use of biosimilar medicines," said Michel Robidoux, Chair of Biosimilars Canada and President and General Manager of Sandoz Canada.
While the use of biosimilar medicines has been well-established in Europe with more than 700 million patient days of use over the past decade, the uptake of these medicines in Canada for chronic treatments has been much slower as public and private payers have not actively implemented policy levers to support their use beyond naïve or new patients. Canadian payers are now beginning to recognize that enhanced policies are needed to fully realize the value of biosimilar medicines.
"Switching or transitioning patients from original biologic treatments to their corresponding biosimilar medicines is the responsible choice for those who manage drug budgets, and will help to ensure patient access to essential treatments for years to come," said Jim Keon, President of Biosimilars Canada.
The evidence supporting such a policy is clear. By the end of 2017 there were 90 studies involving the "switching" or transitioning of 14,255 unique patients that provide real world evidence confirming the safety and efficacy of this practice. The BC PharmaCare announcement is also consistent with Health Canada's recommendation that such a decision should be made by the treating physician in consultation with the patient and taking into account available clinical evidence and any policies of the relevant jurisdiction.
About Biosimilar Medicines A biosimilar biologic drug, or biosimilar, is a drug demonstrated to be highly similar to a biologic drug that was already authorized for sale.1 Health Canada evaluates all the information provided to confirm that the biosimilar and the reference biologic drug are similar and that there are no clinically meaningful differences in safety and efficacy between them.2 Health Canada's rigorous standards for authorization mean that patients and health care providers can have the same confidence in the quality, safety and efficacy of a biosimilar as any other biologic drug.3
About Biosimilars Canada Biosimilars Canada is a national association representing the biosimilar medicines industry in Canada. Its member companies are at the forefront of the global development and marketing of biosimilar medicines. Biosimilar medicines are approved by Health Canada as being as safe and efficacious as their reference biologic drugs, and are developed to the same quality standards. Biosimilar medicines present a significant opportunity to embrace cutting-edge therapies while addressing the cost-effectiveness demands on healthcare systems in Canada. Biosimilars Canada is a division of the Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association. Visit us at www.biosimilarscanada.ca.
Merck Canada Welcomes the Government of British Columbia's Biosimilars Initiative
KIRKLAND, QC, May 27, 2019 /CNW/ - Today, the Government of British Columbia announced its Biosimilars Initiative, which will transition patients who use specific reference biologic drugs for some rheumatology, dermatology and diabetes indications to a biosimilar. The initiative could help save millions of dollars over the first three years, and could improve access to prescription drugs for patients in the province.i
"I am pleased to see British Columbia lead the way in Canada regarding the use of biosimilars and in recognizing the value these products bring to patients," said Anna Van Acker, President and Managing Director, Merck Canada Inc. "With this announcement, the Government of British Columbia has reinforced the important role biosimilars can play in our healthcare system in helping broaden access not only to biologics, but also to innovative medicines overall. Merck is proud to offer biosimilar products as part of its commitment to delivering patient-centred solutions and believes in the value biosimilars bring to patients and to the sustainability of the healthcare system when savings are reinvested within the system."
The Biosimilars Initiative changes PharmaCare coverage for specific biologic drugs. During the transition period from May 27 - November 25, 2019, PharmaCare will cover both originator and biosimilar versions of the affected drugs to allow patients time to inform themselves and start the transitioning process with their prescriber. Effective November 26, 2019, PharmaCare will only cover the biosimilar versions of the drugs identified for the affected indications.
Merck is committed to assisting eligible patients and their healthcare providers in facilitating transition to its biosimilars through its patient support program.
For over a century, Merck, a leading global biopharmaceutical company known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, has been inventing for life, bringing forward medicines and vaccines for many of the world's most challenging diseases. Through our prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products, we work with customers and operate in more than 140 countries to deliver innovative health solutions. We also demonstrate our commitment to increasing access to health care through far-reaching policies, programs and partnerships. Today, Merck continues to be at the forefront of research to advance the prevention and treatment of diseases that threaten people and communities around the world - including cancer, cardio-metabolic diseases, emerging animal diseases, Alzheimer's disease and infectious diseases including HIV and Ebola. For more information about our operations in Canada, visit www.merck.ca and connect with us on YouTube and Twitter @MerckCanada.
Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., USA
This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., USA (the "company") includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the company's management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.
Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; the company's ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the company's patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.
The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in the company's 2018 Annual Report on Form 10-K and the company's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC's Internet site (www.sec.gov).
Scotiabank continues its support of the SickKids-Caribbean Initiative with a new $1 million donation
TORONTO, May 24, 2019 /CNW/ - Tonight, at the Beyond Boundless event, in support of the SickKids Herbie Fund, Scotiabank announced a new $1 million donation to support Phase Two of the SickKids-Caribbean Initiative, a project with a goal of helping to build a sustainable program to diagnose and treat paediatric cancer and serious blood disorders in the Caribbean.
The initiative – in which Scotiabank is recognized as the Telemedicine Partner – connects doctors at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto with doctors in six countries in the Caribbean to help improve – and in many cases, save the lives of young people. In addition, medical professionals across the Caribbean have access to participate in educational programming in Canada without ever setting foot on a plane.
"Prior to 2013, young people diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders in the Caribbean faced major systemic challenges," says Ted Garrard, CEO, SickKids Foundation. "There were few specialized diagnostic services, minimal data on treatment efficacy, and few health-care professionals with specialized training in the region. At that time, SickKids recognized the opportunity to make a difference and developed the SickKids-Caribbean Initiative, with Scotiabank signing on as the first financial institution to donate $1 million to the program. Now, with Phase Two of the program underway, we are grateful for Scotiabank's continued support through this additional $1 million gift."
Phase Two of the project is designed with the ultimate goal of enabling a full transfer of leadership and future sustainability to the Caribbean partners currently working in partnership with SickKids, including the University of the West Indies, Ministries of Health and key hospitals and institutions from the six participating Caribbean countries. This approach aims to improve the access and infrastructure to services for young people with cancer and blood disorders in the Caribbean, with enhanced capacity for country partners to provide a timely, accurate diagnosis and high-quality follow-up care.
"Scotiabank is proud to invest in the SickKids Caribbean Initiative to help as many young people in the Caribbean community reach their infinite potential and the right to thrive, through the benefit of improved access to the best healthcare," says Pruyn Haskins, Global Head of Equities at Scotiabank. "Young people are our future leaders and we recognize what is possible when they receive the backing they need to succeed. We have seen the SickKids-Caribbean Initiative do just that and are confident that our renewed $1 million donation will continue to help families in need for many years to come."
As Canada's international bank, Scotiabank has operations in countries around the world. We recognize and celebrate the impact that the medical professionals, volunteers and support staff at SickKids have on the hospital's young patients – no matter where they live – and that is why Scotiabank has supported the hospital for more than 30 years and is proud to continue that support through the SickKids-Caribbean Initiative.
About Scotiabank At Scotiabank, we aim to support organizations that are committed to helping young people reach their infinite potential. Young people are our future leaders and Scotiabank's goal is to help ensure that they have the necessary skills and resources they need to support their success. Together with our employees, the Bank supports causes at a grassroots level. Recognized as a leader for our charitable donations and philanthropic activities, in 2018, Scotiabank contributed more than $80 million to help our communities around the world.
Scotiabank is Canada's international bank and a leading financial services provider in the Americas. We are dedicated to helping our more than 25 million customers become better off through a broad range of advice, products and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management and private banking, corporate and investment banking, and capital markets. With a team of more than 98,000 employees and assets of over $1 trillion (as at January 31, 2019), Scotiabank trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: BNS) and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BNS). For more information, please visit www.scotiabank.com and follow us on Twitter @ScotiabankViews.
About SickKids Foundation Established in 1972, SickKids Foundation raises funds on behalf of The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and is the largest charitable funder of child health research, learning and care in Canada. Philanthropy is a critical source of funding for SickKids – one of the world's foremost paediatric health-care institutions. Thanks to the generosity of the community, and as a result of a record-breaking year in fundraising, SickKids Foundation generated an unprecedented $146.3 million for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2018. For more information, please visit sickkidsfoundation.com.
SOURCE Scotiabank
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