Canadian Ophthalmological Society highlights potential new treatments of eye disease during AMD Awareness Month
Clinical trials underway for promising new therapies that aim to enhance the treatment of age-related macular degeneration
TORONTO, Feb. 8, 2022 /CNW/ - Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of blindness in Canada, affecting nearly 2 million Canadians today. As February marks AMD Awareness Month, the Canadian Ophthalmological Society is helping to spread awareness by highlighting the work of Canadian ophthalmologists who are involved in research for promising new therapies that aim to enhance the treatment of "wet" AMD, which is the more severe type of the eye disease.
"At first, you may not notice changes in your vision but as AMD progresses to advanced stages, you may experience blurred vision that may start to appear as a large dark spot, while straight lines might look wavy or distorted," says Dr. Colin Mann, President of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society. "While there is no cure, the good news is that comprehensive eye exams can show if you're at risk of AMD and provide early detection and treatment if needed."
Promising AMD research is being done on many fronts with clinical trials well underway. A number of global Phase 3 clinical trials are assessing new therapies with the goal of increasing durability, reducing treatment burden, and achieving improved efficacy and safety. More options means that patients can have access to "individualized" treatments, as certain therapies may affect and work better for different patients. Applications for some of these therapeutics have already been submitted to Health Canada for review and approval.
"While very effective, many patients require frequent monitoring and treatments, which becomes a challenge for long term care of AMD," says Dr. Varun Chaudhary, Chief of Ophthalmology & Professor of Surgery at McMaster University. "If approved, the groundbreaking therapies being tested in Phase 3 trials could lead to improved outcomes for patients by providing durable options that can significantly reduce the treatment burden on patients."
Additional exciting news for AMD include clinical trials for geographic atrophy – a currently untreatable form of AMD which leads to significant vision loss. These trials are demonstrating some early positive signals and long term data is being collected. In addition, rapid advancements in imaging technologies are allowing eye care specialists to diagnose patients with early membranes of wet AMD before patients develop symptoms. These patients are at much higher risk of requiring treatment within the next year or two, and monitoring schedules can be adjusted to ensure close follow-up and early treatment which is vital for preserving vision in the long term.
There are also important developments in technologies that could allow patients undergoing treatment to use home equipment with data relayed directly to their eye care professional. In addition, advances in artificial intelligence are allowing developments of models that can predict how different patients will respond to treatment, which may allow more personalized treatment options in the future.
AMD affects the central vision and occurs when cells in the macula – a small area of the retina located at the back of the eye – break down or deteriorate. While peripheral vision is not affected, one loses the sharp, straight-ahead vision that is necessary for driving, reading, recognizing faces, and looking at fine detail. According to the Canadian Ophthalmological Society, AMD accounts for 90 per cent of new cases of legal blindness in the country.
While age is the most significant risk factor for developing AMD, you may be more likely to develop AMD if you have one or more of the following:
Blue eyes
High blood pressure
Heart disease
High cholesterol
Smoker
Overweight
Frequently eat foods high in saturated fat (e.g., butter, cheese)
Family history of AMD
Check your vision using the Amsler grid and learn more about AMD, or one of the other four serious eye diseases, by visiting seethepossibilities.ca.
About Canadian Ophthalmological Society The Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) is the national, recognized authority on eye and vision care in Canada. As eye physicians and surgeons, we are committed to assuring the provision of optimal medical and surgical eye care for all Canadians by promoting excellence in ophthalmology and by providing services to support our members in practice. Our membership includes over 900 ophthalmologists and 200 ophthalmology residents. We work collaboratively with government, other national and international specialty societies, our academic communities (ACUPO), our provincial partners and affiliates and other eye care professionals and patient groups to advocate for health policy in Canada in the area of eye and vision health. The COS is an accredited, award-winning provider of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) and is an affiliate of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). For more information, visit cos-sco.ca.
SOURCE Canadian Ophthalmological Society
Canada’s Wonderland to open April 30, with plans to hire approximately 4,000 associates for the 2022 season
VAUGHAN, ON, Feb. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Planning for the 2022 season at Canada’s Wonderland is underway and the amusement park has announced it will open to the public on Saturday, April 30. In preparation for the upcoming season, the park has launched its recruitment campaign to fill thousands of positions across all departments.
“We may be in the depths of winter, but we’re already looking ahead to the brighter, warmer days of spring when we can welcome guests back for the 2022 season,” said Norm Pirtovshek, general manager. “Hiring has begun and there are many great jobs available. Working here is fun for obvious reasons and comes with great benefits, but we also value professional growth and leadership development which makes Canada’s Wonderland the perfect place to launch a career.”
Food Service Associates and Line Cooks (minimum age to apply is 15 years old)
Lifeguards (minimum age: 16)
Ride Operators (minimum age: 18)
Maintenance (including Landscaping and Mechanical Technicians)
Security
Guest Services
Entertainment (Roaming Musicians, Character Performers and Show Hosts)
Both seasonal and full-time positions are available. Canada’s Wonderland is committed to fostering a workplace culture in which diversity, equity and inclusion are embraced and promoted. Associate benefits include free and unlimited use of the park and water park during off hours, free promotional tickets for friends and family, access to exclusive employee events and activities throughout the season, discounts to partnering Ontario attractions, employee discounts on food, merchandise and more.
The park continues to work closely with provincial and regional health officials and will provide updates to its COVID-19 safety protocols closer to opening day.
Canada’s Wonderland, located in Vaughan, Ontario (just outside Toronto), is a 300-acre theme park with more than 200 attractions including 17 roller coasters, and is the home to Splash Works, a 20-acre water park. Canada’s Wonderland is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: FUN), a publicly traded partnership and one of the largest regional amusement-resort operators in the world. The Company owns and operates 11 amusement parks, four outdoor water parks, an indoor water park and resort accommodations totaling more than 2,300 rooms and more than 600 luxury RV sites. For more information, see www.cedarfair.com.
Breaking the Rules with Galaxy Tab S8 series: Our Biggest, Boldest, Most Versatile Galaxy Tablets Yet
The Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra joins the Samsung tablet portfolio – offering powerful performance, a truly immersive display, and seamless ecosystem connectivity
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, Feb. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Samsung Electronics Canada announced its new Galaxy Tab S8 series, which includes the Galaxy Tab S8 and Galaxy Tab S8+, and the first-ever Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra tablet with our biggest, boldest display yet and the most powerful performance Galaxy Tab S has ever offered. Sophisticated hardware, premium productivity features, and seamless Galaxy ecosystem connectivity – are all combined in a single portable powerhouse that is designed to be your perfect companion in an always-on, video-first world. The Galaxy Tab S8 series offers you the freedom and flexibility you deserve to work and play on the go.
Now, we rely on tablets for video calls and streaming. Each Galaxy Tab S8 series device offers an improved video conferencing experience with ultra-wide front cameras, a three-microphone setup, and intelligent auto-framing1. The tablets offer revolutionary multitasking capabilities with enhanced Multi-active Windows2 and Samsung DeX, file-sharing with password-protected Quick Share3, powerful productivity with the new super-fast 4nm processor, and a smoother S Pen included in the box4. All of this is packed into the thinnest and toughest Armor Aluminum5 body yet for greater portability, and enhanced your mobile experience. The Galaxy Tab S8 series works hand-in-hand with your full ecosystem of Galaxy devices, thanks to features like Second Screen and Buds Auto Switch6.
“As we rely more on videos to stay connected and entertained, we know that a tablet’s most compelling feature is its large screen and portability,” said TM Roh, President & Head of MX Business at Samsung Electronics. “We built on years of innovation in mobile experiences to refine the Galaxy Tab S8 series, and to push the boundaries of what’s possible on a tablet with the first Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra.”
Expand Your World with the First Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra The Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra offers a premium tablet experience that is unlike any Galaxy Tab before it. With its expansive 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display and 120Hz refresh rate, it also boasts the thinnest bezels yet on a Galaxy tablet at 6.3mm for a maximum screen-to-body ratio and a truly immersive experience. Its gorgeous display is protected by an Armor Aluminum frame, making it over 30% more scratch-resistant and 40% less prone to bending than its predecessor.7 With premium technology you can take just about anywhere, the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is built to fully immerse you in every video, movie, game and more, on-the-move.
Equipped with powerful dual 12MP front cameras, the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra also transforms your video call experience with professional 4K video quality. Advanced hardware meets software with Samsung auto-framing technology that automatically keeps you in focus during a call, while also zooming in or out to include new participants as they join you. You’ll also sound as clear as you look, thanks to three precision microphones that use advanced noise reduction technology to prevent unwanted background chatter. Quad Speakers with Dolby Atmos®, found on all three Galaxy Tab S8 series models, ensure that everything sounds incredible and clear.
Work, Play and Connect Whether you want to explore your artistic side, be immersed in lag-free gaming, or simply multitask with ease, the Galaxy Tab S8 series is the tablet you need for unbeatable performance. Equipped with the first 4nm chip – the fastest processor ever in a Galaxy Tablet – Galaxy Tab S8 and Galaxy Tab S8+ also provide ample RAM and storage for any task. If you need more, the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra can expand to 12 GB of RAM and up to 256 GB of storage, and all three models offer expandable storage of up to 1 TB with an optional microSD8 card.
The Galaxy Tab S8 series is also the first Samsung tablet to support Wi-Fi 6E9, which provides up to double the bandwidth10 and maximum speed of Wi-Fi 6. With optimized network quality you don’t have to worry about weak connections.
With Galaxy Tab S8, you’ll always be ready for action, fueled by an intelligent all-day battery that supports hours of video playback11 when you’re in the middle of a movie marathon. It supports 45W super-fast charging that can get you back to 100% in just 80 minutes1213. The incredible fast-charging battery on the Galaxy Tab S8 can double as a portable charger14. Simply connect your Galaxy S22 series smartphone using a USB-C cable.
The Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S8+ both come with a new and improved S Pen that delivers an incredible writing experience that mimics gliding a pen across paper thanks to its ultra-low latency15.
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra boasts new 4K recording capabilities now allow you to capture crisp, eye-catching videos with both the rear camera and ultra-wide front camera. Content creators and streamers can effortlessly create online tutorials and gameplay, using customizable Selfie Videos16 that are now embedded within Samsung’s Screen Recorder.
The expansive display on the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra makes it easy for you to split the screen into multiple, resizable windows, so you can multitask without having to toggle between apps. Get inspired, search websites, and annotate presentation slides — all in one view.
Tablets also play an important role in keeping you connected to others. Samsung has partnered with Google for even better video calling and live sharing experiences through Google Duo17; so, you can co-watch videos with your friends on YouTube, share your browser to help plan your next meetup, or develop creative ideas using JamBoard18, Google’s interactive whiteboard.
Life Opens Up with Galaxy The Galaxy Tab S8 series performs seamlessly with the entire Galaxy ecosystem. We’ve ensured that the Samsung One UI Tab 4 user interface offers you a consistent and intuitive experience, seamless connectivity as well as smart integrations that flow from your Galaxy Tab S8 to smartphone and PC.
When inspiration strikes on the go, use the S Pen to jot down reminders in the new and improved Samsung Notes app on the Galaxy Tab S8 series and pull them up on your smartphone later for easy reference. And with the Galaxy Tab S8 series and Galaxy S22 Ultra, Quick Share enables you to share photos, videos, and files between devices twice as fast19 as its predecessor. Thanks to Auto Switch, your Galaxy Buds will automatically connect from your Galaxy Tab S8 to your Galaxy S22, so you can move between devices without missing a beat. And for the first time, the Samsung Health app is available on Galaxy tablets so you can browse fitness videos for workout content and keep track of your wellness and fitness data from your Galaxy Watch on a larger screen.
The Galaxy Tab S8 can be turned into a portable second monitor20 with touchscreen capabilities for Galaxy PCs for side-by-side multitasking. Samsung DeX21 – a convenient desktop experience that takes the Galaxy Tab S8 from tablet mode to desktop mode – now allows for transparent app windows and DeX mirroring for when you want to share your tablet’s screen on an external display.
A Tablet You Can Trust and Feel Good About In today’s always-connected world, security is more important than ever, which is why the Galaxy Tab S8 series boasts new features that allow you to track when your tablet’s camera and microphone are in use, giving you the option to instantly block all app access to prevent unwanted recording. The Galaxy Tab S8 series is also protected by the industry-leading Samsung Knox Vault platform, which encrypts personal data and keeps stored files and information isolated from the device’s main operating system to safeguard it from attacks. All members of the lineup sport an intuitive fingerprint scanner22 that enables single-touch device unlocking.
Standout Sustainable Design The Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra comes in bold and timeless Graphite, while Galaxy Tab S8+ comes in three sophisticated shades, Graphite, Silver and Pink Gold. Galaxy Tab S8, in Graphite and Pink Gold. Samsung is also releasing a new Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra Book Cover Keyboard23 that takes the Ultra’s functionality even further with wider, backlit keycaps, customizable shortcut settings, and adjustable standing angles. The optional Book Cover Keyboard features premium, polyurethane leather and a glass-coated touchpad that enables smooth and responsive typing. Plus, Wireless Keyboard Share24 can link your connected keyboard to a Galaxy smartphone for easy typing across devices.
You also have plenty of ways to express your personal style with distinctive Galaxy Tab S8 accessories and add-ons. Those include a transparent Note View Cover that enables handwriting with S Pen, even while the cover protects the screen, and an eye-catching Strap Cover to hold your Galaxy Tab S8 in the orientation that suits you best.25
Samsung is also proud to help reduce ocean-bound plastic and protect the planet, with the Galaxy Tab S8 series partially constructed using plastic components repurposed from discarded fishing nets. Samsung is helping lead the industry by employing this practice. The Galaxy Tab S8 series devices also come in our slimmest packaging to date, made from sustainably-sourced paper, which enables the company to lower emissions, and produce less waste.
Availability The Galaxy Tab S8 series will be available for pre-order beginning February 9, 10AM EST, and for purchase starting February 25, 2022, at Samsung.ca, Samsung Experience Stores and major retailer partners across Canada.
Gift with Purchase Offers From February 9 to February 24, 2022, Canadians who pre-order a Galaxy Tab S8 series tablet online at Samsung.com/ca or at a Samsung Experience Store location will receive a free Book Cover Keyboard Slim and Galaxy Buds2 (Graphite) as a gift with purchase.26
Purchase a Galaxy Tab S8 series tablet between February 25 and March 31, 2022, on Samsung.com/ca, or at a Samsung Experience Store location and receive a free Book Cover and Galaxy Buds2 (Graphite) as a gift with purchase.27
Trade-In Offer
From February 25 to March 31, 2022, customers who purchase a Galaxy Tab S8 series device at a Samsung Experience Store in Canada or online at Samsung.com/ca and participate in the trade-in program will receive an instant promotional trade-in credit of $100, plus the residual value of their trade-in device, applied upfront towards the purchase of their new Galaxy Tab S8 series device28
AIR MILES® Offers From February 9 to February 24, 2022, customers who pre-order and complete their purchase of an eligible new Galaxy Tab S8 series device at a Samsung Experience Store or online at Samsung.com/ca will receive:29
100 Bonus Miles with the pre-order of a Galaxy Tab S8.
200 Bonus Miles with the pre-order of a Galaxy Tab S8+.
300 Bonus Miles with the pre-order of a Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra.
From February 25 to March 4, 2022, customers who purchase a Galaxy Tab S8 series device at a Samsung Experience Store or online at Samsung.com/ca will receive:30
50 Bonus Miles with the purchase of a Galaxy Tab S8.
150 Bonus Miles with the purchase of a Galaxy Tab S8+.
250 Bonus Miles with the purchase of a Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra.
Peace of Mind with Samsung Care+ With a Samsung Care+ Plan, Canadians can experience a total care service for their new Galaxy Smartphone, Laptop, Tablet or Wearable device. Users will be protected for up to two years against physical or liquid damage and mechanical malfunction or defects, with a team of dedicated Galaxy experts available to help them get back on track.31
Canadians who pre-order a Galaxy Tab S8 series device on Samsung.com/ca between February 9, 2022 and February 24, 2022, will receive 50% off Samsung Care+ coverage.32
From February 25 to April 4, 2022, customers purchasing an eligible Galaxy Tab S8 series device can also purchase a Samsung Care+ 2 year plan for their new device for 30% off.33
Until April 4, 2022, customers who purchase Samsung Care+ for an eligible new Galaxy Tab S8 series device at a Samsung Experience Store in Canada or online at Samsung.com/ca will also receive 100 Bonus Miles.34
Door to Door Repair Service Across Canada Enjoy convenient pick-up, speedy repair, and contactless delivery to your home. If you need service support for your Samsung devices, you can arrange convenient Door-to-Door service pick-up through 1-800-SAMSUNG, Live Chat or text us at WECARE (932 273). Customers can also request a self-service repair and book simply through the Your Service portal found online at www.samsung.com/ca/galaxy-repair to arrange a convenient Door-to-Door device pick-up to their home. Pick-up and return of the Galaxy device is free of charge. Service is available for both In- and Out-of-Warranty customers. Coverage may vary. For more information on Door to Door Repair Service, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/ca/galaxy-repair
For more information about the latest Samsung Galaxy devices including specifications: www.samsung.com/ca/.
Device Specifications:
Galaxy Tab S8
Galaxy Tab S8+
Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
Display
11-inch, 2560x1600, (WQXGA) 276ppi LTPS TFT, up to 120Hz
12.4-inch, 2800 x 1752, (WQXGA+) 266ppi Super AMOLED, up to 120Hz
14.6-inch, 2960 x 1848, (WQXGA+) 240ppi Super AMOLED, up to 120Hz
* Measured diagonally as a full rectangle without accounting for the rounded corners. Actual viewable area is less due to the rounded corners and camera hole.
OS
Android 12.0
Dimensions
165.3 x 253.8 x 6.3mm
185.0 x 285.0 x 5.7mm
208.6 x 326.4 x 5.5mm
Weight
503g
567g
726g
Camera
Rear
13MP AF + 6MP Ultra-Wide (Dual) + Flash
Front
12MP (Ultra-Wide)
12MP (Wide) + 12MP (Ultra-Wide)
Memory & Storage
8GB + 128/256GB, microSD up to 1TB*
12GB + 256GB, microSD up to 1TB*
*MicroSD card sold separately.
Processor
4 nm 64-bit Octa-Core Processor
Battery*
8,000mAh (typical) Super Fast Charging 2.0(up to 45W)
10,090mAh (typical) Super Fast Charging 2.0(up to 45W)
11,200mAh (typical) Super Fast Charging 2.0(up to 45W)
* Typical value tested under third-party laboratory condition. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among the battery samples tested under IEC 61960 standard. ** Chargers sold separately.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi 6E ((802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax), Wi-Fi Direct Bluetooth® v 5.2
Colour*
Graphite &Pink Gold
Graphite, Silver & Pink Gold
Graphite
Connectors
Type-C USB 3.2
Sensors
Accelerometer, Geomagnetic, Gyro, Light, Fingerprint, Hall Sensor
GPS
GPS+GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo
Sound
Quad Stereo Speakers with Sound by AKG, Dolby Atmos®
Microphone
3 Microphones
Video
Recording
4K @ 30fps
Playback
8K @ 60fps
Security
Samsung Knox including Samsung Knox Vault
Biometric Authentication
Fingerprint with Side Key
Fingerprint On Display
Fingerprint On Display
Accessories
S Pen (BLE, Inbox) Book Cover Keyboard, Book Cover Keyboard Slim, Book Cover, Protective Standing Cover, Note View Cover, Strap Cover
S Pen (BLE, Inbox) Book Cover Keyboard, Book Cover, Protective Standing Cover
* S Pen and USB Type-C cable included inbox. Other accessories are available for purchase separately. Availability of third-party cases may vary by market, carrier and retailer.
*All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice. Specifications vary by markets and/or carriers.
________________________ 1Currently available on Samsung Camera, BlueJeans, Google Duo, Meta Messenger, Google Meet, New Knox Meeting, Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex Meet, Zoom. Auto-framing only available on ultra-wide front camera. Auto-framing only recognizes people and may not support certain resolutions and ratios. Certain functions may not be available when Auto-framing is on. 2Not all applications may be compatible for this feature. 3Quick Share available on Galaxy smartphones and tablets with Android OS version 10.0(Q) and One UI 2.1 or above. Bluetooth Low Energy and WI-Fi connection are required for Quick Share use. Not all applications may be compatible for this feature. 4S Pen is included with Galaxy Tab S8 Series. 5Armor Aluminum is cased on all metal components, excluding the display, side keys, and the SIM tray. 6Auto Switch feature only available on Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets with OneUI 3.1 or later and Galaxy Watch4 Series or later. Certain devices and applications may not support Auto Switch. 7Compared to Galaxy Tab S7. Based on laboratory testing. 8MicroSD card sold separately. 9Wi-Fi 6E network availability may vary by market, network provider and user environment. Requires optimal connection. Will require a Wi-Fi 6E router. 10Double speed for Wi-Fi 6E measured for devices while using Quick Share. Compared to speed on Galaxy Tab S7 (Wi-Fi 6). Actual bandwidth and speed may vary by market, carrier, and user environment. Available on devices running One UI 2.1 or above including Galaxy Tab S8, Tab S8+, Tab S8 Ultra, S22, S21 Ultra, and Z Fold3. 11Based on average battery life under typical usage conditions. Actual battery life depends on factors such as network, features selected and other application-usage patterns. Results may vary. 1245W charger sold separately 13When using the included charger and cable. Based on average battery life under typical usage conditions. Actual battery life depends on factors such as network, features selected and other application-usage patterns. Results may vary. 14When using the included charger and cable. Based on average battery life under typical usage conditions. Actual battery life depends on factors such as network, features selected and other application-usage patterns. Results may vary. 15Compared to Galaxy Tab S7. Latency speed of 2.8ms measured for Tab S8 Ultra(14.6’’) and Tab S8+(12.4’’) models when using Samsung Notes. 16Selfie Video within Screen Recorder supports full HD video recording and playback. 17 Google Duo is a trademark of Google LLC. Live sharing host is available to Galaxy S22 series and Galaxy Tab S8 series users at time of launch and will be provided to other Galaxy device users with Android S OS at a later date. Participants may need to upgrade to the latest Google Duo app to use live sharing. Google Duo app availability may vary by market. Requires optimal network connection. 18Jamboard needs to be downloaded separately. Additional functions may require purchase. 19Compared to speed on Galaxy Tab S7 (Wi-Fi 6). Based on laboratory testing. Double speed requires both devices to have Quick Share and Wi-Fi 6E and to be connected to a Wi-Fi 6E router. Quick Share available on Galaxy smartphones and tablets with Android OS version 10.0(Q) and One UI 2.1 or above. Quick Share requires Bluetooth Low Energy and WI-Fi connection. Not all applications may be compatible for this feature. 20Second Screen feature supported for Galaxy Book Windows PC and Galaxy Tab S7/7+ or later models. (2021 Jan update required for Galaxy Tab S7/S7+) Wireless display-capable Windows 10 PC models and Windows 10 v.2004 or later version are required. (Windows update: Sep 2020 or later) 21Samsung DeX supported on select Galaxy smartphones and tablets. Additional features available on compatible devices only including Galaxy S22, Galaxy Tab S8 and devices running One UI 4.1 or above. Compatible apps may vary and not all apps may be resizable on Samsung DeX. Accessories for external screen connection sold separately. 22Galaxy Tab S8+ and Tab S8 Ultra have on-screen fingerprint scanners. Galaxy Tab S8 has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner. 23Book Cover sold separately, does not include S Pen. 24Wireless Keyboard Sharing is available on Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra and select Galaxy smartphones, running One UI 4 or above. The smartphone should support Bluetooth HID profile. Both devices must be logged into the same Samsung account. Performance may vary depending on user network environment. 25Availability of covers and accessories may vary by device model and market. Covers and accessories are sold separately. 26Some conditions apply. Offer is valid from February 9th to February 24th, 2022. Pre-order from a participating authorized Canadian retailer any eligible Samsung Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra and receive both a Galaxy Tab S8/S8+ Book Cover Keyboard Slim or Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra Book Cover Keyboard and a Galaxy Buds2 Graphite as a bonus (Book Cover Keyboard Slim EF-DT630BBEGCA regular price $219.99, Book Cover Keyboard Slim EF-DT730BBEGCA regular price $279.99, Book Cover Keyboard EF-DX900BBEGCA regular price $459.99, Galaxy Buds2 SM-R177NZKAXAC regular price $189.99) upon completion of your Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra purchase.
Eligible Samsung Galaxy TabS8/S8+/S8 Ultra tablets are as follows:
Savings will be realized upon completion of your Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra purchase. While supplies last. No rain checks. Limit of one Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra Book Cover Keyboard and one Galaxy Buds2 per Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra purchased. The exact model of the Book Cover Keyboard or Book Cover Keyboard Slim received by the customer will depend on the eligible Samsung Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra purchased by the consumer. Open to Canadian residents only. Participating authorized Canadian retailers may vary and may sell for less. Purchases made at Samsung Experience Stores in Canada and samsung.com/ca are also eligible for this promotion. Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Promotion may be cancelled or changed without notice. 27Some conditions apply. Offer is valid from February 25th to March 31st, 2022. Purchase from a participating authorized Canadian retailer any eligible Samsung Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra and receive both a Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra Book Cover and Galaxy Buds2 Graphite as a bonus (Book Cover EF-BT630PBEGCA regular price $99.99, EF-BT730PBEGCA regular price $109.99, EF-BX900PBEGCA regular price $149.99, Galaxy Buds2 Graphite SM-R177NZKAXAC regular price $189.99)
Eligible Samsung Galaxy Tab S8/S8+/S8 Ultra tablets are as follows:
Optimi Health Dealer’s License Granted by Health Canada
Optimi Health to become a global leader in all-natural psilocybin production
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 07, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Optimi Health Corp. (CSE: OPTI) (OTCQB: OPTHF) (FRA: 8BN) (“Optimi” or the “Company”), developers of a vertically integrated mushroom brand targeting functional and novel psychedelic compounds for the health and wellness sector, is pleased to report that Optimi Labs Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Optimi Health Corp, been granted a Dealer’s License by Health Canada.
The Dealer’s License allows for possession, production, assembling, sale, and delivery of psilocybin within the regulated framework set forth by Health Canada. Optimi will now launch vertically integrated operations at its facility in Princeton, B.C. Once fully commercialized, Optimi’s purpose-built, 10,000 sq. ft. EU GMP-compliant research and production facility will be dedicated to cultivating, extracting, and processing the highest-grade all-natural psilocybin in North America. Guiding Optimi’s stringent research and drug development process, the Company’s GMP and EU-GMP-compliant facility will expand its domestic and global reach in compliance with Health Canada regulations and favourable international regulatory regimes.
“This is a proud and exciting moment for all of us at Optimi,” exclaimed Bryan Safarik, COO and Director of Optimi. He continued, “We purposely overbuilt this facility surpassing clean room pharma grade specifications, allowing us to grow and process the purest, most consistent, safest, and efficacious mushrooms in the industry. I have always believed in our ability to be a Canadian leader in the production of natural-grade psilocybin, so I am truly grateful for all the hard work, insight, and continued effort to get this world-class facility commissioned.” Safarik also praised Health Canada’s leadership role in working with Canadian drug producers as they continue to expand the science and safety of therapeutic psilocybin mushrooms through research and clinical trials.
As noted in the recently filed annual financials, as of September 30, 2021, $8,586,465 CAD in cumulative expenditures were incurred in connection with the construction of the combined 20,000 sq. ft. facilities. Optimi’s Dealer’s License EU GMP-compliant facility contains an impressive Region III, Schedule 8 security level vault capable of securing 1,250kg of psilocybin which carries an approximate value of $53MM CDN. Other features include an Argus environmental control system which provides software and hardware features for real-time monitoring and optimization, advanced HVAC equipment and controls, fire suppression, clean room technology, 700KW backup electrical power systems, robust chain-link fencing with smart system technology including perimeter intrusion detection, wireless gate access and magnetic locks.
Optimi is poised to become the only large-scale Canadian manufacturer, and the premier supplier, of all-natural psilocybin therapies to patients, research groups, universities, licensed clinics and holders of other Dealer’s Licenses and Section 56 exemptions in Canada. While the prescription model of psilocybin delivery is dependent on further clinical trial data from the industry, Optimi will be able to supply patients by way of their physicians and the Special Access Program today. The Company has begun outreach to potential psilocybin clients in Canada and is actively seeking commercial opportunities for its products in select markets with favourable regulatory regimes.
With Health Canada’s recent amendment of the Special Access Program, physicians will be able to request patient access to restricted psychoactive substances like psilocybin and MDMA for psychedelic-assisted therapy. Optimi is taking an active leadership role in finding solutions for the ongoing Canadian mental health crisis, including access to psilocybin for therapeutic purposes. Furthermore, Optimi is committed to being proactive concerning education about the safety and efficacy of psychedelic medicines and this is exemplified through its initial phase 1 dosing study.
“Optimi is focused on providing safe, pure and reliable psychedelic products for all those in need,” said Bill Ciprick, CEO. “Achieving our approved Dealer’s License is a significant milestone in our journey to becoming a leader in the psychedelic industry. We look forward to providing further communications over the coming weeks as production begins, and our 2022 growth strategy is deployed.”
Additionally, Optimi will host an official ribbon-cutting event, late spring, to showcase its state-of-the-art facility and team leadership. The event will be coordinated around all public health protocols established during that time to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved.
On Behalf of the Board of Directors,
Bill Ciprick Chief Executive Officer Optimi Health Corp.
ABOUT OPTIMI (CSE: OPTI) (OTCQB: OPTHF) (FRA: 8BN)
Optimi is developing a sophisticated mushroom brand that focuses on the health and wellness markets. With a vertically integrated approach, Optimi intends to cultivate, extract, process and distribute high quality functional and psychedelic mushroom products at its two facilities comprising a total of 20,000 square feet nearing completion in Princeton, British Columbia. To fully investigate the science of mushrooms, the Company has received a research exemption under Health Canada Food and Drug Regulations (FDR) for the use of Psilocybin and Psilocin for scientific purposes via its wholly owned subsidiary Optimi Labs Inc. Optimi has also been granted a dealer’s license under Canada’s Narcotic Control Regulations governing possession, distribution, sale, laboratory analysis of and research and development of Psilocybin and Psilocin formulations. Optimi is committed to expert cultivation and quality production subject to and in accordance with the terms of all applicable laws and governing regulations to ensure safe, superior Canadian fungi production. Find out more at: https://optimihealth.ca/.
This news release contains forward‐looking statements and forward‐looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward‐looking statements") that relate to Optimi’s current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result," "are expected to," "expects," "will continue," "is anticipated," "anticipates," "believes," "estimated," "intends," "plans," "forecast," "projection," "strategy," "objective," and "outlook") are not historical facts and may be forward‐looking statements and may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward‐looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward‐looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. In particular and without limitation, this news release contains forward‐ looking statements pertaining to activities proposed to be conducted under the Company’s dealer’s license and associated business related to Psilocybin and Psilocin and Optimi’s plans, focus and objectives.
Forward‐looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Optimi’s control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward‐looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the impact and progression of the COVID‐19 pandemic and other factors set forth under “Forward‐Looking Statements" and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual information Form dated January 12, 2022, and other continuous disclosure filings available under Optimi’s profile at www.sedar.com. Optimi undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward‐looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Optimi to predict all of them or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward‐looking statement. Any forward‐looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Numbers Reveal COVID Lockdown’s Human Toll
St. Paul, MN, Feb. 7, 2022 — How does a nation, and a world, respond to one of the greatest public health crises of our times? And at what cost?
With the logic of a lawyer and the scientific expertise of an immunologist, Hugh McTavish, J.D., Ph.D., walks readers through the COVID-19 pandemic and the policy decisions that were made to keep the virus in check in his eye-opening book, COVID Lockdown Insanity. Dr. McTavish’s fact-filled exploration reaches beyond the simple metrics of case and death counts and reveals the unsettling consequences of society’s responses to this disease. His careful examination of the scientific evidence related to COVID-19 transmission and his analyses of both the human and economic costs of the lockdown strategy illuminate the dysfunctionality of the government’s policy response. In the end, he lights a path toward making more enlightened decisions that offer hope of real solutions.
In the book, Dr. McTavish dissects the data that shows:
- The COVID lockdowns threw 63 million Americans into major depression.
- All evidence suggests that the lockdown response to COVID failed to decrease COVID deaths at all.
- Even if the lockdowns prevented 200,000 COVID deaths, which they probably did not, the lockdowns caused more loss of life in increased suicides, drug overdose deaths, cancer deaths and heart disease deaths than they saved in prevented COVID deaths.
- For every 1 COVID death prevented, the lockdowns caused these harms: 1/3 of a death of despair (suicide or drug overdose); 316 people thrown into major depression; 127 people out of work; 350 students out of school; 1,640 people denied the right to live their lives as they wish.
- Mask wearing has “little or no effect” on COVID cases or deaths.
- Hand washing and hand sanitizer use is the best intervention and could dramatically reduce COVID deaths, but this was underemphasized.
- Asymptomatic people very rarely spread COVID.
- Children do not spread COVID, and closing schools had no effect on COVID spread at all, and we knew that by the summer of 2020, and CDC staff wrote a paper saying so in January 2021.
In conclusion, Dr. McTavish says, “Lockdowns have no advantage at all. If you think life is better than death, a long life is better than a shorter life, happiness is better than depression, more money is better than less, education is better than ignorance, child abuse and domestic abuse are bad things, and more personal freedom is better than less, then you agree the lockdowns were a mistake.”
Hugh McTavish is a Ph.D. biochemist and immunologist and a patent attorney. He has authored 18 refereed scientific journal articles and is the inventor of 21 U.S. patents. He has also written two prior books on public policy and nature. He has started two pharmaceutical companies off his own inventions. He lives near St. Paul, Minnesota.
COVID Lockdown Insanity: The COVID Deaths It Prevented, the Depression and Suicides it Caused, What We Should Have Done, and What It Shows We Could Do Now to Address Real Crises
Tomorrow Can’t Wait: Every Canadian Deserves Access to Breakthrough Cancer Treatments
OTTAWA, Feb. 04, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cancer ends more Canadian lives than anything else. In 2020, cancer killed 83,300 Canadians. New research from The Conference Board of Canada shows that although there are new breakthrough treatments available, many in Canada will not have access to these life-extending therapies. The report, released today on World Cancer Day, details the varied and vast barriers to access and the reform that could grant friends and family members additional years of life – many more tomorrows – if the right measures are taken today.
“The findings can empower Canadians navigating a healthcare system that is increasingly becoming an uphill battle in accessing care and treatments,” said Chad Leaver, director of the Health Knowledge Area at The Conference Board of Canada. “The treatments are available. They can give the gift of more time lived – and add value to Canada’s economy. Each added year could mean witnessing a graduation, seeing retirement or experiencing the birth of a grandchild. Our recommendations challenge health system leaders to accelerate specific reforms to broaden access to these promising innovations. The lack of equity in patient access across Canada is concerning. In comparison with other countries, we are lagging far behind."
Breakthrough treatments have ushered in the era of personalized or precision medicine. Canada’s regulatory process approves these treatments for use quickly. But the country ranks 18th in a list of 20 OECD countries in its ability to complete the complex price negotiations that ultimately allow physicians to access them for their patients through provincial plans.
Investments in risk-sharing agreements, optimizing the use of real-world evidence and diagnostic genetic testing frameworks are key to transforming approval and reimbursement of breakthrough treatments for cancer and other disease groups. Integration will require data sharing and interoperability to monitor outcomes and facilitate agile system-level decision making.
As the report unveils, Canada’s healthcare systems have an opportunity to evolve and enable forthcoming innovations in cancer care. Canada’s response to the pandemic has demonstrated that it is possible to work together to implement solutions to big problems with speed and agility.
“The cumulative benefits of breakthrough cancer treatments could add up to 226,445 life years,” adds Leaver. “Ensuring eligible and waiting patients can receive breakthrough treatments is critical to allowing more Canadians to experience more tomorrows.”
Key findings from the research:
Cancer remains the leading cause of death in Canada.
An estimated 2 in 5 Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. 1 in 4 will die from cancer.
In 2020 alone, cancer took 83,000 Canadian lives and 225,800 Canadians were diagnosed with cancer.
The enormous backlog in cancer diagnoses, caused by the pandemic, underscores the need for governments, industry and researchers to respond and accelerate change.
Treatment options in the recent past were limited to surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Breakthrough treatments can increase survival without the side effects of the early options.
Breakthrough treatments have ushered in the era of personalized or precision medicine.
These advanced therapies target genes, tissues or cells specifically responsible for cancer growth.
Canadian patients have a significant delay in accessing breakthrough treatments.
Access to breakthrough treatments in Canada is inequitable. Coverage varies between provinces; and where patients receive care within their province also matters.
With some treatments, up to 60% of Canadian patients may be eligible without having access.
Pharmaceutical coverage, coordination of care and treatment, and access to diagnostic services vary between and within provinces.
Patients in Canada also have less access to ground-breaking clinical trials which is often the earliest point of access to new advanced therapies.
Potential cumulative benefits of breakthrough cancer treatments in our study totalled 226,445 life years gained and $5.9 billion in potential economic value across five tumour types over the last decade.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that with urgency, speedy approvals and timely access to vaccines and treatments are possible.
Canada is slow to complete the complex price negotiations so doctors can access breakthrough treatments for their patients.
Four reforms could improve timely patient access to breakthrough cancer treatment in Canada:
Streamline government processes of health technology assessment and price negotiation to accelerate access to breakthrough treatments.
Change how these therapies are funded to facilitate value-based care and risk-sharing agreements.
Fund access to diagnostic tests when breakthrough therapies are approved.
Expand and integrate systems that collect and share data.
Policy reforms will require a clear mandate from government, accountability frameworks, funding from all sectors and a collaborative operational governance model.
About The Conference Board of Canada: The Conference Board of Canada is the country’s leading independent research organization. Our mission is to empower and inspire leaders to build a stronger future for all Canadians through our trusted research and unparalleled connections. Follow The Conference Board of Canada on Twitter @ConfBoardofCda.
WHAT THE OLYMPICS CAN TEACH THE "IKID" GENERATIONInspirational Advice From a Former Winter Olympic Hopeful & Award-Winning Author
As a kid, Carew Papritz dreamed of being in the Winter Olympics. And being raised on cross-country skiing and racing, he knew this was his way in. When Carew was 17, he attended school in Norway for a year to train and race with the best skiers in the world—the Norwegians. Many of his fellow teammates were on the Norwegian Junior Olympic team, some of them eventually medaling in the Olympics. Aspiring to be an Olympic athlete means an incredible self-motivated desire to succeed. "In this day and age, when we think we can “click” our way to success in the digital world, trying to become an Olympic athlete is exactly the opposite", says Papritz. There is no easy way except hard work, incredible determination, laser-like focus, and willingness to dedicate and sacrifice your life to something amazingly wonderful and difficult to achieve—becoming an Olympic athlete.
TALKING POINTS (FOR INTERVIEWS & ARTICLES)What the Olympics can teach us and our children about setting goals in lifeWhat the Olympics teaches us about passion and perseveranceWhy sometimes failure teaches us more about life than success3 Important Ways to Lead a Legacy Life
Even though Carew trained and raced for years, he did not make the Olympic cross-country ski team. But what those years of training and racing taught him was extraordinary perseverance and how to believe in one’s self.
Carew attributes the success of his award-winning book, The Legacy Letters, directly to his years of Olympic training. Writing a book is no different than trying to become an Olympic athlete. All the elements of self-motivation and perseverance apply.
"I have now earned my medals through my writing, attributing this success to my years of wanting to be in the Olympic games."
From his many “first-ever” book signings (such as being atop of a volcano--Mt. St. Helens–or on horseback at Barnes & Noble), to earning a Guinness World Record for the World’s Largest Envelope, in part to celebrate National Thank You Letter Day–a holiday he created to inspire gratitude and civility through hand-written letter, Carew’s innovative literary accomplishments all stem from his desire to live life to the fullest, which is the central message behind his book.
ABOUT CAREW PAPRITZ:
Carew Papritz is an educational thought-leader, literacy advocate and award-winning author of the inspirational book, The Legacy Letters. Through his innovative efforts such as the I Love to Read YouTube series and National Thank You Letter Day, Papritz has made a universal impact by being an advocate for literacy and teaching people of all ages about personal and global legacy issues.
Papritz's writing has been published in a number of media outlets including Huffpost, Inc., Reader's Digest, Fox News, Woman's World Magazine, Yahoo! News, & First Time Parent Magazine.
Rivalry Becomes One of the First Fully Registered Operators of Internet Gaming and Sports Betting in Ontario
TORONTO, Feb. 04, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rivalry Corp. (the “Company” or “Rivalry”) (TSXV: RVLY) (FSE: 9VK) (OTCQX: RVLCF), an internationally-regulated sports betting and media company, today announced that it has become one of the first fully registered operators of internet gaming and sports betting in Ontario. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (the “AGCO”) has informed the Company that its registration has been approved.
“We are very pleased to be one of the first companies to be registered as an internet gaming operator in Ontario,” said Steven Salz, Co-Founder and CEO of Rivalry. “As a proud Toronto-founded and based company, it’s a particular privilege to be able to finally offer our innovative product legally and responsibly in our backyard. I’m confident we will deliver a differentiated experience that will elevate what consumers think sports betting can be.”
The Company continues to work with iGaming Ontario, a Government of Ontario agency which conducts and manages internet gaming in the province when provided through private gaming operators, to complete any and all final requisite steps as it prepares for launch. Last week, iGaming Ontario announced that Ontario’s new online gaming market will launch on April 4th, 2022.
About Rivalry
Rivalry Corp. wholly owns and operates Rivalry Limited, a leading sport betting and media property offering fully regulated online wagering on esports, traditional sports, and casino for the next generation of bettors. Rivalry Limited currently holds an Isle of Man license, considered one of the premier online gambling jurisdictions. Based in Toronto, Rivalry operates a global team in more than 18 countries and growing. Rivalry Limited was granted its Isle of Man license in early 2018, officially launching in August of that year, and the Company is currently in the process of obtaining additional country licenses. The Company also has a variety of originally developed products, including Quest, an on-site engagement experience, and an original casino game called Rushlane, a proprietary casino game that marks the creation of a new category for online gaming: Massively Multiplayer Online Gambling Games (MMOGG).
Company Contact: Steven Salz, Co-Founder & CEO 416-565-4713 ss@rivalry.com
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements
This news release contains certain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (“forward-looking statements”). All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “achieve”, “could”, “believe”, “plan”, “intend”, “objective”, “continuous”, “ongoing”, “estimate”, “outlook”, “expect”, “project” and similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes or that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the Company being approved as a licensed operator of internet gaming and sports betting in Ontario and the timing of internet gaming services being launched in Ontario.
Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management of the Company at the date the statements are made based on information then available to the Company. Various factors and assumptions are applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to and involve a number of known and unknown, variables, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, which may cause the Company’s actual performance and results to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include regulatory or political change such as changes in applicable laws and regulations; the ability to obtain and maintain required licenses; the esports and sports betting industry being a heavily regulated industry; the complex and evolving regulatory environment for the online gaming and online gambling industry; the success of esports and other betting products are not guaranteed; changes in public perception of the esports and online gambling industry; failure to retain or add customers; the Company having a limited operating history; negative cash flow from operations; operational risks; cybersecurity risks; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; reliance on management; reliance on third parties and third-party networks; exchange rate risks; risks related to cryptocurrency transactions; risk of intellectual property infringement or invalid claims; the effect of capital market conditions and other factors on capital availability; competition, including from more established or better financed competitors; and general economic, market and business conditions. For additional risks, please see the Company’s prospectus dated September 17, 2021 available on the Company’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.
No assurance can be given that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.
Source: Rivalry Corp.
In Canada, lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, with estimates that 29,600 Canadians received a diagnosis in 20211
Tecentriq® (atezolizumab) is the first and only cancer immunotherapy approved for NSCLC in the adjuvant setting
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 4, 2022 /CNW/ - Hoffmann-La Roche Limited (Roche Canada) is pleased to announce that on January 14, 2022, Health Canada has authorized TECENTRIQ® (atezolizumab) as monotherapy for adjuvant treatment following complete resection and no progression after platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy for adult patients with stage II to IIIA* non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumours have PD-L1 expression on ≥ 50% of tumour cells (TCs).2
TECENTRIQ is a type of cancer immunotherapy treatment.2 Immunotherapy may work by helping the immune system fight the cancerous cells.3 TECENTRIQ works by attaching to a specific protein in your body called Programmed Death Ligand-1, or "PD-L1".2 This protein makes the immune system in your body not work as well. By attaching to the protein, TECENTRIQ helps your immune system to fight your cancer and may reactivate the anti-tumour immune response.3
"The burden of lung cancer is significant and treatment innovation at any stage is important to provide more options," says Shem Singh, Executive Director Lung Cancer Canada. "With this approval, Canadians living with NSCLC now have another option when it comes to managing the disease at an early stage and potentially improving quality of life."
The approval is based on data from the Phase III IMpower010 study comparing TECENTRIQ to best supportive care (BSC) after adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with completely resected early stage non-small cell lung cancer. In this study, a clinically meaningful improvement in disease-free survival (DFS) in the TECENTRIQ arm was shown compared to the BSC arm in patients with PD-L1 TC ≥ 50% stage II to IIIA.2
TECENTRIQ has nine currently approved indications in Canada, two of which are approved with conditions (NOC/c).2 For the adjuvant treatment of early-stage NSCLC, TECENTRIQ is available in three dosing options, providing the flexibility to choose administration every two, three or four weeks.2
"The inclusion of a new treatment for non-small cell lung cancer patients is welcome news," says Peter Glazier, Executive Vice President of the Lung Health Foundation. "For a majority of patients with lung cancer, advances in treatment have been minimal. As an organization focused on addressing the gaps in the prevention, diagnosis, and care of lung disease in Canada, we are very supportive of a new treatment option for Canadians living with lung cancer. "
Lung cancer can be broadly divided into two major types: non-small cell (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), with about 88 per cent of lung cancer cases in Canada (excluding Quebec) being NSCLC.4 Lung cancer is also classified in stages, as stage I through IV, based on the extent of disease in the body at the time of diagnosis.4
"As a healthcare solutions company, we are excited to provide a new treatment option for Canadians living with non-small cell lung cancer," says Loredana Regep, Vice President, Medical and Regulatory Affairs, Hoffmann-La Roche Limited. "This recent approval gives physicians an additional option for the treatment of early lung cancer after more than a decade with limited treatment advances in this setting."
About the Health Canada Approval
The approval is based on results from an interim analysis of the IMpower010 study that compared TECENTRIQ to best supportive care (BSC) after adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with completely resected early stage non-small cell lung cancer.2
IMpower010 is a Phase III, open label, multicentre, randomized study evaluating the efficacy and safety of TECENTRIQ for the adjuvant treatment of patients with stage IB (tumors ≥ 4 cm) – IIIA NSCLC (per the Union for International Cancer Control / American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, 7th edition). People who had complete tumour resection and were eligible to receive cisplatin-based chemotherapy were enrolled. Subsequently, people whose disease had not progressed following completion of cisplatin-based chemotherapy (up to four cycles) were randomized. Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive TECENTRIQ (Arm A) or best supportive care (BSC) (Arm B). The primary efficacy outcome measure was DFS as assessed by the investigator.2 DFS was defined as the time from the date of randomization to the date of occurrence of any of the following: first documented recurrence of disease, new primary NSCLC, or death due to any cause, whichever occurred first.2
In the analysis of patients (n = 229) with PD-L1 TC ≥ 50% stage II to IIIA (pre-specified key-secondary endpoint), a clinically meaningful improvement in DFS in the TECENTRIQ arm was shown compared to the BSC arm (hazard ratio [HR]=0.43, 95% CI 0.27-0.68).2
About TECENTRIQ
TECENTRIQ is a monoclonal antibody designed to bind with a protein called Programmed Death Ligand-1 (PD-L1), which may be expressed on tumour cells and tumour-infiltrating immune cells, blocking its interactions with both PD-1 and B7.1 receptors.2This protein makes the immune system in your body not work as well. By attaching to the PD-L1 protein, TECENTRIQ may help the immune system fight the cancer.2
TECENTRIQ is a type of cancer immunotherapy treatment.2 Immunotherapy treatments work by helping to strengthen or restore the immune system's ability to fight the cancerous cells.3
About Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally.5 In Canada, lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of death from cancer in both men and women.1 In 2021, it was estimated that 29,600 Canadians would be diagnosed with lung cancer.1
Lung cancer can be broadly divided into two major types: NSCLC and SCLC, with about 88 per cent of lung cancer cases in Canada (excluding Quebec) being NSCLC.4 In Canada, approximately 50 per cent of patients with NSCLC are diagnosed with stage I to III disease.4 Diagnosing lung cancer early, before it has spread, may improve chances of survival.1
About Roche
Roche is a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics focused on advancing science to improve people's lives. The combined strengths of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, as well as growing capabilities in the area of data-driven medical insights, help Roche deliver truly personalized healthcare. Roche aims to improve patient access to medical innovations by working with stakeholders across the entire healthcare sector to provide the best care for each person.
Roche is the world's largest biotech company, with truly differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology and diseases of the central nervous system. Roche is also the world leader in in vitro diagnostics and tissue-based cancer diagnostics, and a frontrunner in diabetes management. In recent years, Roche has invested in genomic profiling and real-world data partnerships, has become an industry leading partner for medical insights, and has collaborated in artificial intelligence (AI) data mining to fuel healthcare insights.
Roche Canada was founded in 1931 and employs more than 1,800 people across the country through its Pharmaceuticals division in Mississauga, Ontario as well as its Diagnostics and Diabetes Care divisions in Laval, Quebec.
Roche continues to search for better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases and make a sustainable contribution to society. Globally, Roche has been recognized as one of the most sustainable companies in the Pharmaceuticals Industry by the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for twelve consecutive years. Roche Canada is also actively involved in local communities through its charitable giving and partnerships with organizations and healthcare institutions that work together to improve the quality of life of Canadians.
5 World Health Organization: GLOBOCAN 2020 – Lung Cancer: Estimated cancer incidence, mortality, and prevalence worldwide. [Internet; cited September 2021] Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/cancers/15-Lung-fact-sheet.pdf *Per the Union for International Cancer Control/American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, 7th edition.
SOURCE Roche Canada
Health Canada Authorizes TECENTRIQ® (atezolizumab) for Canadians with early non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
In Canada, lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, with estimates that 29,600 Canadians received a diagnosis in 20211
Tecentriq® (atezolizumab) is the first and only cancer immunotherapy approved for NSCLC in the adjuvant setting
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 4, 2022 /CNW/ - Hoffmann-La Roche Limited (Roche Canada) is pleased to announce that on January 14, 2022, Health Canada has authorized TECENTRIQ® (atezolizumab) as monotherapy for adjuvant treatment following complete resection and no progression after platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy for adult patients with stage II to IIIA* non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumours have PD-L1 expression on ≥ 50% of tumour cells (TCs).2
TECENTRIQ is a type of cancer immunotherapy treatment.2 Immunotherapy may work by helping the immune system fight the cancerous cells.3 TECENTRIQ works by attaching to a specific protein in your body called Programmed Death Ligand-1, or "PD-L1".2 This protein makes the immune system in your body not work as well. By attaching to the protein, TECENTRIQ helps your immune system to fight your cancer and may reactivate the anti-tumour immune response.3
"The burden of lung cancer is significant and treatment innovation at any stage is important to provide more options," says Shem Singh, Executive Director Lung Cancer Canada. "With this approval, Canadians living with NSCLC now have another option when it comes to managing the disease at an early stage and potentially improving quality of life."
The approval is based on data from the Phase III IMpower010 study comparing TECENTRIQ to best supportive care (BSC) after adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with completely resected early stage non-small cell lung cancer. In this study, a clinically meaningful improvement in disease-free survival (DFS) in the TECENTRIQ arm was shown compared to the BSC arm in patients with PD-L1 TC ≥ 50% stage II to IIIA.2
TECENTRIQ has nine currently approved indications in Canada, two of which are approved with conditions (NOC/c).2 For the adjuvant treatment of early-stage NSCLC, TECENTRIQ is available in three dosing options, providing the flexibility to choose administration every two, three or four weeks.2
"The inclusion of a new treatment for non-small cell lung cancer patients is welcome news," says Peter Glazier, Executive Vice President of the Lung Health Foundation. "For a majority of patients with lung cancer, advances in treatment have been minimal. As an organization focused on addressing the gaps in the prevention, diagnosis, and care of lung disease in Canada, we are very supportive of a new treatment option for Canadians living with lung cancer. "
Lung cancer can be broadly divided into two major types: non-small cell (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), with about 88 per cent of lung cancer cases in Canada (excluding Quebec) being NSCLC.4 Lung cancer is also classified in stages, as stage I through IV, based on the extent of disease in the body at the time of diagnosis.4
"As a healthcare solutions company, we are excited to provide a new treatment option for Canadians living with non-small cell lung cancer," says Loredana Regep, Vice President, Medical and Regulatory Affairs, Hoffmann-La Roche Limited. "This recent approval gives physicians an additional option for the treatment of early lung cancer after more than a decade with limited treatment advances in this setting."
About the Health Canada Approval
The approval is based on results from an interim analysis of the IMpower010 study that compared TECENTRIQ to best supportive care (BSC) after adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with completely resected early stage non-small cell lung cancer.2
IMpower010 is a Phase III, open label, multicentre, randomized study evaluating the efficacy and safety of TECENTRIQ for the adjuvant treatment of patients with stage IB (tumors ≥ 4 cm) – IIIA NSCLC (per the Union for International Cancer Control / American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, 7th edition). People who had complete tumour resection and were eligible to receive cisplatin-based chemotherapy were enrolled. Subsequently, people whose disease had not progressed following completion of cisplatin-based chemotherapy (up to four cycles) were randomized. Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive TECENTRIQ (Arm A) or best supportive care (BSC) (Arm B). The primary efficacy outcome measure was DFS as assessed by the investigator.2 DFS was defined as the time from the date of randomization to the date of occurrence of any of the following: first documented recurrence of disease, new primary NSCLC, or death due to any cause, whichever occurred first.2
In the analysis of patients (n = 229) with PD-L1 TC ≥ 50% stage II to IIIA (pre-specified key-secondary endpoint), a clinically meaningful improvement in DFS in the TECENTRIQ arm was shown compared to the BSC arm (hazard ratio [HR]=0.43, 95% CI 0.27-0.68).2
About TECENTRIQ
TECENTRIQ is a monoclonal antibody designed to bind with a protein called Programmed Death Ligand-1 (PD-L1), which may be expressed on tumour cells and tumour-infiltrating immune cells, blocking its interactions with both PD-1 and B7.1 receptors.2This protein makes the immune system in your body not work as well. By attaching to the PD-L1 protein, TECENTRIQ may help the immune system fight the cancer.2
TECENTRIQ is a type of cancer immunotherapy treatment.2 Immunotherapy treatments work by helping to strengthen or restore the immune system's ability to fight the cancerous cells.3
About Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally.5 In Canada, lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of death from cancer in both men and women.1 In 2021, it was estimated that 29,600 Canadians would be diagnosed with lung cancer.1
Lung cancer can be broadly divided into two major types: NSCLC and SCLC, with about 88 per cent of lung cancer cases in Canada (excluding Quebec) being NSCLC.4 In Canada, approximately 50 per cent of patients with NSCLC are diagnosed with stage I to III disease.4 Diagnosing lung cancer early, before it has spread, may improve chances of survival.1
About Roche
Roche is a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics focused on advancing science to improve people's lives. The combined strengths of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, as well as growing capabilities in the area of data-driven medical insights, help Roche deliver truly personalized healthcare. Roche aims to improve patient access to medical innovations by working with stakeholders across the entire healthcare sector to provide the best care for each person.
Roche is the world's largest biotech company, with truly differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology and diseases of the central nervous system. Roche is also the world leader in in vitro diagnostics and tissue-based cancer diagnostics, and a frontrunner in diabetes management. In recent years, Roche has invested in genomic profiling and real-world data partnerships, has become an industry leading partner for medical insights, and has collaborated in artificial intelligence (AI) data mining to fuel healthcare insights.
Roche Canada was founded in 1931 and employs more than 1,800 people across the country through its Pharmaceuticals division in Mississauga, Ontario as well as its Diagnostics and Diabetes Care divisions in Laval, Quebec.
Roche continues to search for better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases and make a sustainable contribution to society. Globally, Roche has been recognized as one of the most sustainable companies in the Pharmaceuticals Industry by the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for twelve consecutive years. Roche Canada is also actively involved in local communities through its charitable giving and partnerships with organizations and healthcare institutions that work together to improve the quality of life of Canadians.
5 World Health Organization: GLOBOCAN 2020 – Lung Cancer: Estimated cancer incidence, mortality, and prevalence worldwide. [Internet; cited September 2021] Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/cancers/15-Lung-fact-sheet.pdf *Per the Union for International Cancer Control/American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, 7th edition.
SOURCE Roche Canada
Fentanyl Deaths More Than Doubled in 30 States in Just Two YearsFentanyl Deaths Among Teens Tripled, Deaths Among Black Teens Increased 5x New Report: https://familiesagainstfentanyl.org/states/Akron, Ohio – In just two years, fentanyl poisoning deaths have doubled in the United States, and in 30 states, deaths have more than doubled according to a new analysis from Families Against Fentanyl. In six states, fentanyl fatalities increased nearly fivefold (Alaska, Colorado, Louisiana, Mississippi, California and Texas). See the report, “Fentanyl: The State We’re In” and tables at end of release below.
Families Against Fentanyl also found that among teens, fentanyl poisoning deaths are rising even faster. Teen deaths tripled in the last two years, and among black teens, deaths are five times higher than they were two years ago. Families Against Fentanyl analyzed data from the Center for Disease Control to find where and among which groups fentanyl poisoning deaths are rising the fastest. Since 2015, fentanyl fatalities across the United States increased by 547%. In Indiana, the District of Columbia, Minnesota, Washington and Colorado - fentanyl fatalities increased by over 1,000%. In Louisiana, Arizona and California - they increased by more than 2,000%.“The fentanyl crisis is getting worse, not better. Fake pills with deadly amounts of fentanyl are popping up everywhere. It’s in fake Xanax and Percocets, it’s being laced in cocaine and ecstasy. A single pill can kill,” said Families Against Fentanyl founder James Rauh, who lost his son to fentanyl poisoning.“Fentanyl poisoning is tearing families apart and killing our young people at an alarming rate. This stuff is so deadly it’s been used as a chemical weapon. Even babies and young children have been fatally poisoned by accident. It does not belong on our streets. It’s time for our leaders in Washington to do more.” “It is time to attack fentanyl overdoses with the same vigor and approaches as we do the coronavirus. It is heartbreaking to treat babies who overdosed or people who had no idea their pills or powder was contaminated with a deadly poison,” said Dr. Roneet Lev,emergency physician and former Chief Medical Officer of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. “Treating fentanyl overdoses is an attempt to bring someone back from the dead. As an emergency physician I do my best, but sadly we are not always successful. Fentanyl suppliers are preying on the vulnerable in our society.” Families Against Fentanyl is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of the illicit fentanyl crisis and advocating for federal action. The organization was founded by James Rauh of Akron, Ohio after his son was killed by fentanyl poisoning in 2015. Today’s analysis comes on the heels of another recent report from Families Against Fentanyl that found that fentanyl poisoning is now the #1 cause of death among Americans 18-45 and was responsible for more deaths than suicide, car accidents or gun violence last year. The new report also follows a new report published in JAMA Pediatrics that found that unintentional drug “overdose” deaths among Americans aged 10-24 years old have resulted in the loss of 1.25 million years of life from 2015 through 2019.“Mass incarceration of drug users and low-level dealers is not the answer and won’t stop the poisoning. We need to go to the source and stop the illegal manufacturers of this lethal chemical. Almost all illicit fentanyl is manufactured in other countries. By designating fentanyl a Weapon of Mass Destruction, the U.S. can do more to root out the illegal manufacturers and stop this poison before it ever reaches our streets. If 200,000 deaths isn’t mass destruction, I don’t know what is,” added Rauh.
Bipartisan leaders including former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge and former CIA Director John Brennan have joined with Families Against Fentanyl towarn of the national security threat posed by illicit fentanyl and urged President Biden to designate illicit fentanyl and its analogues as weapons of mass destruction. More than 25,000 Americans have joined the call by signing FAF's petition. See tables below.
Technical note: This analysis was calculated using the most recent reliable data per CDC recommendations and compares fatalities for the 12 month period ending in May 2021 to the 12 month period ending in May 2019.Highest Fentanyl Deaths Per Capita In Last YearPer Capita RankStateDeath RateTotal Deaths*Total Deaths Rank1West Virginia64.41,150212District of Columbia49.7354333Maryland402,42094Delaware38.1376325Ohio374,29936Kentucky36.11,616157Tennessee35.72,45878Connecticut331,174209Maine30.64133010Rhode Island29.23093611Pennsylvania28.93,690512Massachusetts28.61,9751213Vermont26.81674314Indiana26.11,7641315New Jersey25.62,2761016South Carolina25.11,3091917North Carolina242,543618Florida23.75,161119Arizona221,6361420New Hampshire21.92993721Missouri21.71,3341822Michigan20.52,0471123New York20.23,912424Louisiana20.19362425New Mexico19.84162926Wisconsin201,1482227Illinois19.42,442828Virginia15.81,3571729Alaska13.3974430California135,123231Mississippi12.73783132Minnesota12.57092633Colorado12.27092734Alabama11.35562835Washington10.78252536Nevada10.73363537Georgia10.41,1122338Oregon8.33513439Kansas8.22383840Arkansas7.92383941North Dakota6.8524742Iowa5.81844143Utah5.21704244Texas4.91,4321645Idaho4.8884546Oklahoma4.71884047Wyoming4.6275048Montana4.2454849Nebraska3.6694650South Dakota3275151Hawaii2.33349 Technical note: This analysis was calculated using the most recent 12 months of reliable provisional data per CDC recommendations and which at time of analysis is the 12 month period ending in May 2021.
TRAIN IT RIGHT NEWSLETTER
Sign Up and get a free 7 day Train it Right HIIT Program!
TALKING POINTS
Carew Papritz is an educational thought-leader, literacy advocate and award-winning author of the inspirational book, 
Since 2015, fentanyl fatalities across the United States increased by 547%. In Indiana, the District of Columbia, Minnesota, Washington and Colorado - fentanyl fatalities increased by over 1,000%. In Louisiana, Arizona and California - they increased by more than 2,000%.“The fentanyl crisis is getting worse, not better. Fake pills with deadly amounts of fentanyl are popping up everywhere. It’s in fake Xanax and Percocets, it’s being laced in cocaine and ecstasy. A single pill can kill,” said Families Against Fentanyl founder James Rauh, who lost his son to fentanyl poisoning.“Fentanyl poisoning is tearing families apart and killing our young people at an alarming rate. This stuff is so deadly it’s been used as a chemical weapon. Even babies and young children have been fatally poisoned by accident. It does not belong on our streets. It’s time for our leaders in Washington to do more.” “It is time to attack fentanyl overdoses with the same vigor and approaches as we do the coronavirus. It is heartbreaking to treat babies who overdosed or people who had no idea their pills or powder was contaminated with a deadly poison,” said Dr. Roneet Lev, emergency physician and former Chief Medical Officer of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. “Treating fentanyl overdoses is an attempt to bring someone back from the dead. As an emergency physician I do my best, but sadly we are not always successful. Fentanyl suppliers are preying on the vulnerable in our society.” Families Against Fentanyl is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of the illicit fentanyl crisis and advocating for federal action. The organization was founded by James Rauh of Akron, Ohio after his son was killed by fentanyl poisoning in 2015. Today’s analysis comes on the heels of another recent report from Families Against Fentanyl that found that fentanyl poisoning is now the 
