Disability leave due to mental health issues can be avoided
Experts discuss how managers can spot early warning signs of disability leave and other prevention methods in online keynote presentation
TORONTO, Dec. 7, 2018 /CNW/ - Morneau Shepell's research shows that more than half (57 per cent) of employees and managers are suffering, or have at some point in the past, with a mental health issue or sleep-related disorder. Within the same study, 40 per cent of managers and 34 per cent of employees reported suffering from extreme levels of stress within the previous six months and revealed a strong correlation between workplace stress and employee retention. Many employees transition to disability leave because of untreated mental health issues – a situation that experts believe is preventable.
"Our research shows that there are early warning signs, such as a change in behaviour or productivity, that suggest someone is struggling and may go on disability leave. Managers can spot these signs up to 18 months before they take leave, but may not know what to do," said Paula Allen, vice president, research, analytics and innovation solutions, Morneau Shepell. "Additionally, we found that about a third of the employee population is working at less than 70 per cent of their productivity."
Experts from Morneau Shepell and Nestle Canada will discuss this and more on December 13 at the Total well-being keynote: Creating a workforce that is health, happy and productive.
"We know that when people go off work for mental health issues they could be away for a long time," said Alastair Macdonald, senior vice president of human resources, Nestle Canada. "If we can intervene before a crisis situation, in terms of prevention, intervention or restoration, it is money well spent."
Members of the media are invited to watch the keynote address, featuring experts from Morneau Shepell and Nestle Canada, to learn more about how the physical, mental, social and financial wellness of employees affect their companies. Through a technology-driven approach, using platforms like LifeWorks by Morneau Shepell, employers are better equipped to develop a more resilient workforce.
Event details
| What: |
Total well-being keynote: Creating a workforce that is health, happy and productive |
| When: |
Thursday, December 13, 2018, 11 a.m. ET |
| Where: |
Register and watch online by visiting join.lifeworks.com |
| Who: |
Chester Elton, #1 best-selling author and workplace expert
Rita Fridella, Executive Vice President Morneau Shepell and President, LifeWorks
James Lee, Senior Director of Product, LifeWorks by Morneau Shepell
Paula Allen, Vice President, Research and Integrative Solutions, Morneau Shepell
Alastair Macdonald, Senior Vice President of HR for Nestle Canada |
About Morneau Shepell
Morneau Shepell is the only human resources consulting and technology company that takes an integrated approach to employee well-being, health, benefits and retirement needs. The Company is the largest administrator of retirement and benefits plans and the largest provider of integrated absence management solutions in Canada. LifeWorks by Morneau Shepell is a total well-being solution that combines employee assistance, wellness, recognition and incentive programs. As a leader in strategic HR consulting and innovative pension design, the Company also helps clients solve complex workforce problems and provides integrated productivity, health and retirement solutions. Established in 1966, Morneau Shepell serves approximately 24,000 clients, ranging from small businesses to some of the largest corporations and associations. With more than 4,500 employees in offices worldwide, Morneau Shepell provides services to organizations around the globe. Morneau Shepell is a publicly-traded company on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: MSI). For more information, visit morneaushepell.com.
SOURCE Morneau Shepell Inc.
5 Things You Need to Kow About Probiotics
By Eddie Fatakhov M.D. (a.k.a. Dr. Fat-Off)
What is a probiotic?
Probiotics are not only live microorganisms found in supplements and some fermented foods such as yogurt and pickles, they have also been found to have a variety of health benefits. These benefits include vitamin K and B production, the breakdown of insoluble (indigestible) fiber, immune system support, the improvement of mental health, improvement of heart health, reduction of certain allergies and skin conditions, and (possibly one of the most sought after effects) the reduction of belly fat.
What is the link between probiotics and body fat?
There are large populated families of primarily friendly microorganisms (bacteria) living in your digestive system, two of which are families tied to the management of body fat – bacteroidetes and firmicutes. According to a wide variety of studies, body weight is related to the balance of these two families of bacteria.
These studies look at the difference between the gut bacteria in normal-weight people versus overweight or obese people. The major difference found was that obese subjects had an imbalance in their firmicute levels versus their bacteroidetes.
Which probiotics help you lose weight?
Not all probiotics are created equal. While there are many strains available, only a few have been proven to have positive effects on weight. One strain that studies have found to assist in weight loss is the Lactobacillus family. Studies have found the following to be true:
- When paired with diet and exercise eating yogurt with Lactobacillus fermentum or Lactobacillus amylovorus helped to reduce body fat by 3–4% over a 6-week period.
- The effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus supplements was measured on 125 subjects for weight loss and weight maintenance. The study found women taking the probiotics over a three month period lost 50% more weight than the placebo group.
- Lactobacillus gasseri is one of the most productive probiotic when it comes to weight loss. This specific probiotic inhibits dietary fat absorption. This means the calories your body would otherwise “harvest” are excreted instead.
How can probiotics help you lose weight?
While research is still ongoing, here are some of the ways probiotics are thought to assist in weight loss:
- They release GLP-1. Probiotics may play a part in the release of GLP-1 (appetite-reducing hormone). Studies have shown increased levels of GLP-1 may actually help you burn calories and fat.
- They increase production of ANGPTL4. Levels of the protein ANGPTL4 may rise from probiotic use. This production might actually lead to decreased fat storage.
Are probiotics safe?
There are many types of probiotics available today. Because of this it’s good to remember that some have a lot research behind them and some do not. Here are somethings to know before you buy a probiotic:
- Mild side effects are possible such as gas or bloating within the first few days of use.
- All foods with probiotics are not created equal.
While these foods usually have good levels of live bacteria – “live and active cultures” yogurt, kefir, aged cheeses, brined pickles, sauerkraut, tempeh, and miso – products that claim to have probiotic benefits might not. Enriched juices, cereals, and snack bars may have less than promised levels, or weakened forms of the organisms.
- Probiotics might not be safe for everyone.
People with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients in treatment, should avoid probiotics.
- Expiration dates and storage are very important.
Because probiotics are living organisms they have a limited shelf life. Using probiotics before their expiration dates and following the suggested storing advised on the product label maximizes their potency.
Before taking any supplements we recommend talking to your doctor to ensure you are taking one that is right for you.
If you would like more information on probiotics, please contact The Center for Internal and Integrative Medicine
ABOUT DR. FAT-OFF…
Eddie Fatakhov, M.D., a.k.a. Dr. Fat-off, is a Board-Certified Physician, Nutritionist, and Best-Selling Author of "The Doctors' Clinic-30 Program. His latest book is “Dr. Fat-Off Simple Life-Long Weight-Loss Solutions.”
Email: eddie@drfatakhov.com
Office: 404-836-9906
Website: www.eddiefatakhovmd.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fatakhov
Instagram: http://instagram.com/eddiefatakhovmd/
A Holiday Wish and a New Year’s Resolution from Stop Foodborne Illness
As the season of “comfort and joy” approaches, Stop Foodborne Illness (
www.stopfoodborneillness.org), a national, nonprofit, public health organization dedicated to preventing illness and death from foodborne pathogens, has one holiday wish—that you make this important New Year’s resolution:
“I will learn more about food safety so I can prevent my family and friends from being victims of foodborne illness.”
Foodborne illness is no joke, as can be witnessed by the recent nationwide ban on Romaine lettuce issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Harmful pathogens have become an ever-increasing threat in our food supply, causing serious illness and even death among people with weaker immune systems such as young children and older adults. In 2011, the CDC
estimatedthat each year, roughly 1 in 6 Americans (or 48 million people) gets sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die of foodborne illness.
You may be surprised to learn that the
FDA’s list includes products from nearly all food categories! In fact, we’re going to list them here: tahini, breakfast cereal, cheese, asparagus, cake mix, pistachios, veggie sandwiches, twice-baked potatoes, ice cream, ham rolls, biscuits, rolls, salads, subs, ham, macadamia nuts, cage free eggs, dry whey powder, bread, crackers, cracker sandwiches, pasta salad, poke kits, sprouting mix, vegetable trays, fresh melons, frozen broccoli, frozen whole tilapia fish, fruit mix, organic nut mix, wild Coho smoked salmon, microgreen mixes, ice pops, smoked salmon spread, romaine lettuce, eggs, organic amaranth flour, coconut, pastries, coconut flour, nutritional yeast, pumpkin seeds, deli products, alfalfa sprouts, chia seeds, cardamom pods, pork, bison, cream cheese, and frozen green beans and mixed vegetables.
“We must attack foodborne illness on many fronts and in many ways,” said Lauren Bush, board co-chair of Stop Foodborne Illness. “Producers, retailers and consumers must be more vigilant than ever in identifying and preventing harmful pathogens in our food supply. We cannot stress enough how important it is for everyday people to be knowledgeable about foodborne illness—what it is, where it comes from, how to maintain a food-safe household and how to be a smart food shopper.”
“At the food industry level, food safety organizations such as Stop, trade associations, food producers and government agencies are working harder than ever to encourage safe food policies and practices at all levels, but certainly much more can be done,” said Michael Taylor, Stop Foodborne Illness board co-chair and former FDA Deputy Commissioner for Foods and Veterinary Medicine. “We must all be committed to very high food safety standards and make sure those standards are enforced through the food chain.”
A DOZEN THINGS YOU CAN DO TO BE SMART ABOUT FOODBORNE ILLNESS IN 2019
As Stop’s holiday gift to you, here are a dozen things you can do to be knowledgeable about foodborne illness and help keep your family safe.
1. Sign up to get free email alerts when food recalls are declared. Stop Foodborne Illness regularly posts information about new food recalls: http://www.stopfoodborneillness.org/take-action/sign-up-for-e-alerts/
9. Know who to contact if you or your family members contract foodborne illness. If it is
serious, don’t be shy—
call 9-1-1. When you visit your doctor or clinic, make sure you encourage them to consider a foodborne pathogen as the cause of the symptoms.
May you and yours enjoy a happy, safe and healthy holiday season and New Year!
Stop Foodborne Illness Is Here to Help You
Stop Foodborne Illness is a national, nonprofit, public health organization dedicated to preventing illness and death from foodborne pathogens by promoting sound food safety policy and best practices, building public awareness and assisting those impacted by foodborne illness. For more food safety tips please visit
www.stopfoodborneillness.org/awareness/. If you think you have been sickened from food,
check this out and contact your local health professional.
For questions and personal assistance, please contact Stop Foodborne Illness’ Community Coordinator, Stanley Rutledge, at srutledge@stopfoodborneillness.org or 773-269-6555 x7. To donate to Stop, visit here.
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7 Ways to Boost Energy Without an Energy Drink
By Dr. Niket Sonpal NYC Internist and Gastroenterologist
https://tourocom.touro.edu/academics/faculty/harlem/niket-sonpal.php
After seeing the news about a research study out of the University of Texas Health Center in Houston, which found the diameter of blood vessels to become “dramatically smaller” 90 minutes after consuming a 24-ounce energy drink, I decided to offer some ways to boost energy without an energy drink.
While the 24-ounces used in the study of 44 healthy, non-smokers in their 20’s, is 3 times the size of a typical 8-ounce energy drink, there is plenty of research out there that shows chugging energy drinks is not the best way to get more energized.
When we look at the levels of sugar and caffeine in these energy drinks and the habitual nature in which they are consumed, we see issues such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, thickening of the blood, gastrointestinal irritation plus anxiety, sleep disruption and restlessness.
Here’s what I suggest consuming for a more sustainable and healthy way to energize.
1. Hydrate with water. The idea is to follow the 8x8 rule. Eight ounces of water 8 times per day which adds up to a half gallon. Most people are not getting anywhere near this water intake opting for coffee, juices, sodas or energy drinks instead. I challenge my patients to try the 8x8 rule and even declare going “H20 Only.” By the third day, they notice they’re feeling more energized.
2. Exercise 30 minutes per day.
Something as simple as going for a fast-paced walk elevates heart rate and healthy blood flow. This improves stamina and gets energy flowing throughout our bodies. A lot of people claim they don’t have time to exercise which calls for creative ways to get exercise in. I had a client add dancing for 30 minutes upon her arrival from work with her 4-year-old daughter. This provided a way for both mom and daughter to get moving in a fun easy way right at home.
3. Sprinkle in chia seeds.
These low carb seeds have an energy packing blend of protein, fats, and fiber. Chia seeds regulate blood sugar, so you won’t have these spikes then drops. They deliver big time nutrients with very low calories. Loaded with antioxidants, chia seeds were a highly valuable energy staple for Mayan and Aztec warriors in ancient Mexico who consumed them knowing they would be sustained, not hungry and energized for hours and hours.
4. Eat foods rich in Omega 3 Fatty Acids.
Omega 3’s are big-time energy enhancers. Eating salmon, sea bass, tuna, oysters, shrimp, seaweed salad, walnuts, edamame, and cauliflower are just a few Omega 3 rich staples to add to the shopping list.
5. Get good quality sleep.
Many of my patients who see me for gastrointestinal issues often benefit from getting disciplined with setting a bedtime, wake time and enhancing the quality of their sleep. This could be simple things such as pre-sleep meditation with an app, removing the television from the bedroom, buying curtains that block light, setting the temperature to suit your body best, buying new sheets and even a new mattress.
Making the bedroom a comfortable haven for quality deep sleep is incredibly important. Sleep is our time to recharge and when it is disturbed, we will feel sluggish during the day.
6. Get more magnesium.
Magnesium activates adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which can be thought of like the “magic button” of energy within our cells. According to studies, about half of the people in the USA and Europe aren’t getting the recommended amount of magnesium (300 milligrams for women and 350 for men).
Interestingly, most Americans and Europeans complain of energy drains and sluggishness and typically attribute their lack of energy to busier, more demanding lifestyles. However, the problem, most commonly, is a lack of magnesium which helps us convert food into energy, create proteins from amino acids, and helps regulate our nervous system.
7. Get more B12.
Known as the “energy vitamin” it’s important to note that the only time B12 will give you energy is if you’re deficient in B12. It’s wise to get complete blood work done to see if you are in fact deficient in B12 in addition to other key vitamins and minerals.B12 is found in beef, fish, and dairy and these days more and more people are cutting red meat and dairy out of their diets.
B12 helps to make red blood cells, which carry oxygen, so when there’s a dip in red blood cell production we’re being deprived oxygen which leads to feeling run down, the first tell-tale sign of B12 deficiency. Body weakness, shortness of breath brain fog, forgetfulness and lack of focus are also symptoms. Yogurt, Swizz cheese, fortified cereals, Shiitake mushrooms, and clams are other great sources of B12.
About Dr. Niket Sonpal:
Dr. Niket Sonpal is an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine and Clinical instructor at Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center, Brooklyn who specializes in Gastroenterology. He is a graduate of the Medical University of Silesia – Hope Medical Institute in Poland. After completing his residency in Internal Medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital, he was selected to be the 2013‐2014 Chief Resident at Lenox Hill Hospital–Northshore LIJ Health System. Dr. Sonpal has completed his Fellowship in Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Lenox Hill Hospital and continues his work in the field of medical student and resident test preparation. He now serves as the associate program director for the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Brookdale University medical center.
He is the co‐author for the best-selling Master the Boards: USMLE Step 2 CK, Master the Boards Step 3, And Master the Boards: Internal Medicine. He is also the Chief Operating Officer for Medquest Test Prep, Director of Medical Education for Picmonic Test Prep, and a recognized expert on medical test prep.
This article, 7 Ways to Boost Energy Without an Energy Drink appeared first on KMRPR.
One Woman's Mission To 'Quiet The Anger' And Reduce Stress As We Approach The New Year
Charlotte, NC, December 6, 2018 ― Charlotte pastor and face of the popular Car Chronicles Movement, Jameliah Young-Mitchell has penned The Death of the Angry Black Woman—a book published by Warren Publishing that discusses stereotypes faced by African-American women. The book released at #1 on Amazon.com for New Releases in the Anger Management category.
Anger can get the best of many women, but when anger erupts into rage and leads to shouting, fighting, and name-calling, it's time to look within and make a change. The Death of the Angry Black Woman boldly acknowledges stereotypes faced by women in the black community and uncovers the seeds that lead many to live anger-filled lives. Instilled with Biblical scripture and jaw-dropping honesty, this debut book from Pastor Jameliah Young-Mitchell, the voice behind the popular Car Chronicles Movement, will empower you to bury your anger, reject false labels, and embrace the new you.
"I wrote this book for all the women out there who are dealing with anger that they have yet to find the source of,” said Young-Mitchell. "Many women in the black community come from backgrounds of abuse, mistreatment, violence––and they become fighters. Through my book I hope to be that voice in their head, the one we all hear but rarely acknowledge, encouraging them to move on, let go of anger, reject hateful labels, embrace their powerful femininity, and live the life God intended them to live.”
Pastor Jameliah Young-Mitchell is the daughter of the late Evangelist Violetta B. Young and Pastor James I. Young, and grew up in Brooklyn, NY, as the youngest of four kids. She has preached across the United States and internationally and is the pastor of Unity Church Charlotte. Young-Mitchell is an experienced keynote speaker for women's empowerment, teen and youth mentoring, corporate America, and relationships. She is the voice behind the popular Car Chronicles Movement where she can be seen live on Facebook Monday through Friday at 7:30 a.m. Young-Mitchell is the proud mother of a son and daughter and resides in Charlotte, NC, with her husband, Calvin W. Mitchell.
The Death of the Angry Black Woman is available at warrenpublishing.net, Amazon.com, or wherever books are sold. Jameliah Young-Mitchell is available for book signings and interviews.
The Death of the Angry Black Woman
978-1943258-92-5
Released: 2018
Soft Cover
$15.00
Select excerpts from many five-star reviews on Amazon.com:
"This book is an awesome read! The transparency and life examples of Pastor Jameliah Young- Mitchell gives [sic] the reader a firsthand view of what an overcomer looks like. There is something for everyone to learn and apply to their lives to become better people.”
"At first I wasn't interested in reading this book because I felt that I was not 'Angry' but as I read I discovered that I was angry and suffered some of the same things but learned how to mask the pain. This book allowed me to begin the process of a new me. I highly recommend this book to anyone that is in need of refocusing.”
"I recently joined a book club with a few other ladies and this was one of the first books recommended. I could relate to a lot of the content in the book and was able to dig a little deeper and have a little self-reflection afterwards. I highly recommend this!”
"I liked everything about the book. From the start to the end... it's a mind-blowing moment for real I tell you! This is a 10-star book.”
"This book is just awesome. It has definitely set me free, it has been a blessing to My Mind & Soul.”
"[Jameliah] is very candid in this book. She has a way of leading, teaching, and encouraging, all while openly acknowledging that she too is still learning. It is written in such a way that EVERYBODY can understand. I love it!!”
Four Steps to Help Control Cholesterol This Christmas
Christmas is the time of year when you want to relax, spend time with your family and friends, and enjoy all the divine tastes of the Christmas buffet. It is easy to get carried away and eat way more than enough -- which is not something that your doctor would recommend, especially if you have cholesterol issues. On the other hand, let’s be realistic: it seems impossible to eat apples and oats while looking at everybody else's plates filled with meat, gravy, cheese, and pieces of cake… doesn’t it?
Fortunately, there is a middle ground. We have found four ways to enjoy that Christmas buffet while still keeping everything within reasonable limits.
Start Your Day with a Healthy Meal
Lunch is the central part of the Christmas feast which gives you the opportunity to start your day more healthily. Have oatmeal, or eat some fruit and nuts for breakfast. These cholesterol-lowering foodstuffs are an excellent way to prepare yourself for a larger lunch. You’ll have a bigger appetite for the main event, and you’ll feel better throughout the whole day when you know that you’ve started it the right way.
Choose a Smaller Plate
This trick might seem funny to you, but it works. Take a smaller plate, fill it with food and eat slowly. Chew your food patiently and don’t think about what you want to eat next before you finish what you have. If you take it slow, you will fill up quicker, and you’ll enjoy the food more at the same time.
Make Your Day Healthier with Food Supplements
If you want to take advantage of the opportunity and relish at the moment entirely, you can at least add something helpful to the already rich daily menu. Food supplements, like Cholesterade, can give you the gift of lower cholesterol on Christmas day.
Have a Nice Walk After Lunch
Physical activity always is recommended for those who continually fight high cholesterol. And when is a better moment to enjoy a pleasant, relaxing walk than after a Christmas lunch? Go out and stretch your legs. Ask others if they would like to join your calorie-burning session - it’s always better when there are more people involved. A Christmas walk would not only be good for your health, though. Look at it as an opportunity to have a talk with your company about a year that has passed and about your plans and dreams for the future.
No matter how much we love Christmas and all the delights it brings, it is smart to pay attention and to control our diet that day. Some small adjustments can mean a lot, and they will not only help you reduce cholesterol in your blood, but also make you feel better.
Why A National Marijuana Law
Could Be Closer To Reality In 2019
So far, the task of loosening marijuana laws has been left to individual states to implement. But that changed when the Democrats won control of the House of Representatives last month.
“The states have been carrying the water for the pro-marijuana forces for several years but that may finally start to change,” says Sarah Lee Gossett Parrish (www.sarahleegossettparrish.com), a cannabis industry lawyer. “The federal government is about to get involved in a big way. Uniform national marijuana laws are certainly now on the table.”
Oregon Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) has already laid out a blueprint to advance national marijuana legislation. Blumenauer’s plan could begin as soon as Democrats take the gavel next month, he says. His strategy would include starting to move the 37 bills currently unable to make it to the House floor under Republicans onto committee schedules, for hearings and proposed legislation.
Here are some of the House committees that could be looking at marijuana issues and what they would be considering:
The House Judiciary Committee. Rep. Blumenauer wants the House to “deschedule” marijuana. It is currently labeled a “Schedule 1” drug, the most tightly restricted category reserved for drugs that have “no currently accepted medical use.” Cannabis advocates have been trying to change that classification since 1972.
House Veterans Affairs Committee. Hearings may be held on proposed legislation to give veterans access to medical marijuana.
House Financial Services Committee. The focus would be on banking changes. Right now, cannabis businesses are unable to use banks, causing them to be an all-cash business, which makes them more susceptible to robberies and violence. There are many other advantages for cannabis producers if they could have access to banking institutions.
Further optimism about the future of passing national marijuana laws is due to two major roadblocks being removed. Attorney General Jeff Sessions was fired by President Donald Trump and Texas Rep. Pete Sessions was defeated by Democrat Colin Allred. Although Jeff Sessions had more of a national profile, Rep. Pete Sessions was arguably more important for pro-marijuana forces to remove since he was chairman of the powerful House Rules Committee. He has been credited with keeping almost all marijuana legislation from reaching the floor of Congress for a vote.
“No marijuana bill could get a floor vote under Representative Sessions,” Parrish says. “He was probably the biggest legislative roadblock to comprehensive national marijuana legislation. Now that he is gone, there is a lot of optimism that many of these bills may finally get a vote.”
About Sarah Lee Gossett Parrish
Sarah Lee Gossett Parrish (www.sarahleegossettparrish.com) is an attorney who maintains a civil-litigation practice and is admitted to practice in Oklahoma and in Texas. She is a member of the National Cannabis Bar Association and National Cannabis Industry Association. She also is admitted to practice in all state and federal District Courts in Oklahoma; the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit and the United States Supreme Court. Ms. Parrish received her B.A. in Letters from the University of Oklahoma, Phi Beta Kappa, Summa Cum Laude. She also served as Chairman of the Governor's Commission on the Status of Women for the State of Oklahoma and was instrumental in starting the Oklahoma Women's Hall of Fame. She received her Juris Doctorate from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. Her legal thriller, Guilt of Innocence, placed second in the New York Law Journal's national fiction writing contest.
Vitality-linked Insurers to Get 100 Million People 20% More Active by 2025
LONDON, Dec. 6, 2018 /CNW/ - Building on the results of the largest behaviour change study on physical activity, Vitality and its global network of insurers have collectively committed to improving the health of millions over the next seven years. This is in line with the World Health Organizations' Global Action Plan on Physical Activity, which aims to address the dramatic growth in lifestyle diseases, caused in part by a lack of exercise.
To view the Multimedia News Release, please click: https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8458751-vitality-insurers-people-more-active-2025/
Incentives and Physical Activity, conducted by leading independent research institute, RAND Europe, found an average 34% increase in activity levels of participants using Vitality Active Rewards with Apple Watch. The study examined the behaviours of over 400 000 people in the UK, US and South Africa.
Adrian Gore, Discovery Chief Executive and Vitality founder, revealed the findings to leaders, academics, and policymakers from around the world at an event in London. The study examined the effect of Vitality Active Rewards with Apple Watch on participants' long-term physical activity levels. Key findings include:
- A sustained increase in activity of 4.8 extra days a month, which Vitality estimates translates into two extra years of life.
- Activity increased across all participants, regardless of location, health status, age or gender.
- 'At-risk' participants with a high body mass index (BMI) showed greater improvements than others, with increases in activity of 200% in the US, 160% in the UK, and 109% in South Africa.
- With these sustained increases in activity, Vitality estimates that within a year, participants achieved numerous benefits, such as improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and cardiorespiratory fitness, as well as lowered healthcare costs.
"This landmark study helps us understand how people can be incentivised to live healthier lives," said Gore. "The significance for individuals, the insurance industry and wider society is profound."
Vitality has achieved global scale through successful partnerships with leading insurers and the most forward-thinking employers around the world. These partners include AIA, Generali, John Hancock, Manulife, Ping An and Sumitomo Life, all of whom have committed to making 100 million people 20% more physically active by 2025.
Access more information on the study and the global Vitality network here.
About Vitality
Vitality is a leading behaviour change platform which uses the power of incentives, data and behavioural economics to make people healthier and enhance and protect their lives. The Vitality Group is responsible for the global expansion of the Vitality Shared-Value Insurance model using the capabilities of Discovery and its network. Vitality was founded 20 years ago by Discovery Limited - a leading financial services company listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit http://www.vitalitygroup.com.
The Vitality Active Rewards with Apple Watch programme makes use of a comprehensive behavioural science toolkit, encompassing short and long-term incentives such as loss aversion and pre-commitment. Short-term incentives create a sense of immediacy, with members rewarded on a weekly basis for reaching their weekly goals. For a minimal upfront activation fee, members can reduce their monthly Apple Watch payments to zero by meeting their physical activity goals, including daily exercise and active calorie burn. The two components reinforce each other and create an ecosystem of behaviour change.
(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/792822/Adrian_Gore.jpg )
Video: https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8458751-vitality-insurers-people-more-active-2025/
SOURCE Vitality
Canada’s National Public Health Agency Issues Warning on Talcum Powder Use
Health Canada finds science supports additional restrictions on talc-based products
OTTAWA, Canada – The national governmental agency responsible for public health in Canada has issued a report finding that the use of talc for genital hygiene may expose women to a greater risk of ovarian cancer.
Health Canada is issuing an informational letter on the respiratory and cancer dangers of talc use to all health care professionals, recommending they advise patients not to use talc in the genital area. The advisory notes that loose talc can be found in a wide array of products, including baby powder and deodorants as well as cosmetics, natural health products and non-prescription drugs.
The governmental action is based on a thorough analysis of scientific studies linking talc exposure to ovarian cancer and respiratory conditions such as fibrosis. The report notes that the Canadian Cancer Society identifies genital talc use as a possible risk factor, supported by numerous published studies reporting a small but significant association between ovarian cancer and perineal talc use.
In a news conference announcing the health advisory, Tolga Yalkin, Director General of Health Canada’s Consumer Product Safety Directorate, said that the government will consider a number of actions to further restrict talc use.
“Currently we have warnings on loose powder products intended for use with infants and children, and we’ll investigate adding additional warnings based on the scientific evidence,” Mr. Yalkin said.
“It is encouraging that the Canadian government is taking the lead in notifying medical professionals about the potential dangers of talc use,” said Ted Meadows,partner in the Beasley Allen law firm in Montgomery, Alabama. “Every organization responsible for public health and education about cancer needs to carefully examine how to make doctors and consumers more aware of the science and symptoms surrounding ovarian cancer.”
Mr. Meadows is a member of the legal team for an upcoming trial representing 12 women and their families who allege that perineal use of Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products caused their ovarian cancer. That trial is scheduled to begin on Jan. 22, 2019, in state district court in St. Louis.
Additional information on the Health Canada announcement can be found at https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2018/68320a-eng.php.
About the Beasley Allen Law Firm
Headquartered in Montgomery, Ala., Beasley Allen is comprised of more than 70 attorneys and 200 support staff. One of the largest Plaintiffs law firms in the country, Beasley Allen is a national leader in civil litigation, with verdicts and settlements in excess of $26 billion. For more information visit www.beasleyallen.com.
ZAXINE® (rifaximin) - Now Indicated in Canada for Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea (IBS-D)1,2
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MONTREAL, Dec. 6, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - Lupin Pharma Canada is pleased to announce the approval from Health Canada for ZAXINE® 550 mg (rifaximin) for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults. ZAXINE® for IBS-D is being launched in December of 2018 under a strategic licensing agreement with Salix Pharmaceuticals, Ltd., one of the largest specialty pharmaceutical companies in the world committed to the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. The agreement grants Lupin exclusive rights to promote, distribute and market ZAXINE® in Canada. This is in addition to ZAXINE®'s previously approved indication for the reduction in risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in adults.1
Canada has one of the highest rates of IBS worldwide, affecting 13-20% of the population.2, 3 Of those who do suffer from IBS, about one third have IBS with diarrhea as the primary symptom. Although the exact cause of IBS-D is not known, scientists believe that the microbiota in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract plays an important role in the development of the symptoms associated with IBS-D, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.1
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sofia Mumtaz, President - Pipeline Management & Legal, Lupin said, "We are delighted to receive the approval from Health Canada for ZAXINE® (rifaximin, 550 mg tablets) for the treatment of IBS-D. With this new indication approved, the medical fraternity and patients will now have access to an effective medication against one of the most rampantly prevailing issues of IBS-D."
"There is an unmet treatment need for those who have irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, so this is great news for those still grappling to manage their digestive symptoms", said Gail Attara, Chief Executive Officer of the Gastrointestinal Society, a patient group known for its popular website, www.badgut.org.
The safety and efficacy of ZAXINE® 550 mg three times daily for 2 weeks were demonstrated in 3 Phase-III placebo-controlled trials. After treatment, significantly more ZAXINE®-treated patients experienced self-reported relief of IBS symptoms.1 In addition, a significantly greater proportion of ZAXINE®-treated patients reported relief of abdominal pain and improvement in stool consistency.1, 4
"In irritable bowel syndrome, it is not always easy to manage the symptoms effectively," said Dr. Guy Aumais, MD, CSPQ, FRCP (C), Gastroenterologist at Maisonneuve-Rosemont and Associate Professor, University of Montreal. He further added, "ZAXINE® is a short-term, two-week therapy for IBS-D, which will act on symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating and abdominal pain, with lasting relief. With this indication, we now have an interesting new option in the management of IBS-D."
"An alteration in host-microbiota interactions is a factor in the expression of subsets of IBS patients. ZAXINE® has been shown to improve symptoms in diarrhea predominant IBS-D and its action is likely mediated through attenuation of host microbiota interactions and subsequent symptom generation. This is an important new treatment option for IBS-D patients", said Dr. Stephen Collins MBBS, FRCP (UK), FRCPC, Professor, Department of Medicine at McMaster University.
ABOUT ZAXINE® (RIFAXIMIN)
ZAXINE® (rifaximin)'s primary mode of action reduces the bacterial load and bacterial products that can negatively affect the patient, alleviating the most common symptoms of IBS-D including bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhea.1
As an antibacterial agent that acts locally on the microflora of the gut thereby altering the gut microbiota, ZAXINE® represents an important new therapeutic option in the treatment of IBS-D.
About Lupin Limited
Lupin is an innovation led transnational pharmaceutical company developing and delivering a wide range of branded & generic formulations, biotechnology products and APIs globally. The Company is a significant player in the Cardiovascular, Diabetology, Asthma, Pediatric, CNS, GI, Anti-Infective and NSAID space and holds global leadership position in the Anti-TB segment.
Lupin is the 13th largest generics pharmaceutical company in terms of market capitalization (30th September 2018, Bloomberg) and the 8thlargest generics pharmaceutical company in terms of revenues (30th June 2018, Bloomberg LTM) globally. The Company is the 3rd largest pharmaceutical player in the US by prescriptions for the Total Market (IQVIA MAT September 2018); 3rd largest Indian pharmaceutical company by global revenues (30th June 2018, Bloomberg LTM); 6th largest generic pharmaceutical player in Japan (IQVIA MAT September 2018) and 5thlargest company in the Indian Pharmaceutical Market (IQVIA MAT September 2018).
For the financial year ended 31st March 2018, Lupin's Consolidated sales and Net profits before exceptional items were at Rs. 155,598 million (USD 2.41 billion) and Rs. 13,934 million (USD 216 million) respectively. Please visit http://www.lupin.com for more information. You could also follow us on Twitter – www.twitter.com/lupinglobal.
CIN: L24100MH1983PLC029442 Registered Office: Lupin Ltd, 3rd Floor, Kalpataru Inspire, Off Western Express Highway, Santacruz (East), Mumbai 400 055.
| ZAXINE® (rifaximin) is manufactured by:
Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
400 Somerset Corporate Boulevard
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
USA |
In Canada, ZAXINE® (rifaximin) is distributed exclusively by:
Lupin Pharma Canada Ltd
1001 Bd. De Maisonneuve East
Suite 304, Montréal, Québec H2L 4P9
Canada |
References:
- ZAXINE® Product Monograph. Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc., November 30, 2018.
- http://cdhf.ca/en/disorders/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs/section/resources
- https://www.badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/ibs/
- Pimentel M, Lembo A, Chey WD et al. Rifaximin Therapy for Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome without Constipation. N Engl J Med 2011; 364:22-32.
SOURCE Lupin Pharma Canada
