24, Jul 2024
BD India’s Concerted Commitment Towards Creating Awareness About Venous Diseases

BD India's Concerted

24th July 2024  New Delhi, Delhi, India  To create awareness and enable knowledge-sharing around Venous diseases, in order to drive better patient care BD (Becton, Dickinson, and Company) conducted roadshows across New Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore recently. Venous disease is a condition where the veins in the body have difficulty returning blood to the heart, thereby resulting in blood clot forming in a vein, typically in the legs. If left untreated, these clots can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing serious complications. Delayed detection and intervention can lead to worsened clinical outcomes and a multitude of problems for both patients and healthcare professionals.

The 3-day Venous Summit witnessed a series of Technology Innovation Forums followed by Symposiums driven by Dr. Houman Jalaie, Head of Venous Commission of German Society of Vascular Surgery and Deputy Head of Department of Vascular & Endovascular Surgery, University Hospital Aachen, Germany and over 40 prominent faculty from Interventional Radiology, Vascular Surgery from ~12 cities across India. Attended by 200+ delegates with 13 case-presenters who drove 8.5 hours of scientific discussions each day, the end objective of the Summit was to discuss best domestic and international practices in order to drive better patient care in the venous domain in India.

Commenting on this initiative to establish Standard of care for Venous disease patients in India, Atul Grover, Managing Director, India, South Asia, “Venous Diseases are slow progressive diseases which exist very commonly but often go untreated owing to low levels of awareness and lack of diagnosis. Through our Venous Summit, in partnership with experts like Dr. Houman Jalaie we are bringing the focus on Venous ailments as well as providing a platform to healthcare experts from across the country to establish a uniform quality care protocol to enable better patient care. This initiative is aligned with BD’s purpose of advancing the world of health by delivering superior patient outcomes.”

Dr. Houman Jalaie shared his knowledge with healthcare professionals through a series of events which touched upon the following areas:

  • Uniform treatment algorithms in Post-Thrombotic Syndrome and NIVL management
  • Approaches to learn and adapt from current International and National best practices in Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Management
  • How novel technologies, like mechanical thrombectomy, can improve the patient outcomes in complex venous diseases

Reflecting on his experience, Dr. Jalaie said, “As a healthcare professional, there is nothing more important for me than the safety and wellbeing of my patients. I was delighted to interact with so many like-minded senior doctors from all over India to discuss the right strategies to enable better patient outcomes.”

Every year over 2 million patients in India suffer from some form of Venous disease, however, due to less awareness, many patients go undiagnosed or untreated.

22, Jul 2024
Demystifying Varicose Veins: Sri Ramakrishna Hospital’s Vascular Specialists Illuminate the Path to Effective Management

 Sri Ramakrishna Hospital's Vascular

22nd July 2024  Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India  Dispelling misconceptions surrounding varicose veins, experts at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital delve into the condition’s nuances, offering insights into symptoms, symptom management, and prevention strategies.

Varicose veins, predominantly affecting the lower limbs, stem from weakened or damaged veins, disrupting blood flow to the heart. Contrary to common belief, they extend beyond cosmetic concerns, potentially leading to discomfort and health complications.

Identifying Symptoms:

  • Visible, enlarged veins in the legs
  • Leg throbbing or cramping
  • Leg pain or achiness
  • Sensation of leg heaviness
  • Leg swelling
  • Skin color changes around affected veins

Effective Management Tips:

  • Engage in regular circulation – promoting exercises like walking or swimming.
  • Elevate legs above heart level during rest to alleviate swelling and enhance circulation.
  • Utilize compression stockings to enhance blood flow and alleviate symptoms.
  • Maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to support vascular health.
  • Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing to prevent blood pooling in the legs.

Preventive Measures:

  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on veins.
  • Avoid tight clothing that impedes blood flow, particularly around the waist and legs.
  • Stay hydrated to support circulation and vein health.
  • Quit smoking to mitigate vascular issues.
  • Schedule regular checkups with vascular specialists for proactive monitoring and timely intervention.

Dispelling Myths:

1. Myth: Varicose veins are untreatable.
Fact: Medical advancements offer effective treatments, rendering this myth obsolete.

2. Myth: Varicose veins are solely cosmetic concerns.
Fact: Beyond aesthetics, varicose veins can impact overall health, emphasizing the need for prompt treatment.

3. Myth: Varicose veins exclusively affect women.
Fact: While common in women, men are also susceptible to varicose veins.

4. Myth: Varicose veins only afflict the elderly.
Fact: Varicose veins can develop at any age due to various factors, not just aging.

While often asymptomatic, varicose veins warrant attention and care. Sri Ramakrishna Hospital offers advanced, outpatient treatments, ensuring comfort and accessibility for individuals seeking relief from symptoms and complications associated with varicose veins.

20, Jul 2024
Carlton Senior Living San Leandro Achieves Teepa Snow Positive Approach to Care Designation

Carlton Senior Living San Leandro Achieves Teepa Snow Positive Approach to Care Designation

San Leandro, CA, July 20, 2024 — This prestigious designation is part of a broader achievement across multiple Carlton communities, including Downtown Pleasant Hill, Davis, Orangevale, Sacramento, and San Jose. It joins already PAC-designated Carlton communities in Elk Grove and Fremont. Remarkably, eight of the ten PAC-designated organizations in the Western United States are Carlton communities, making them the sole PAC-designated senior living provider in Northern California.

At the heart of this accomplishment are the philosophy and teachings of Teepa Snow, a renowned occupational therapist and dementia care educator. Her Positive Approach to Care® has revolutionized the way we understand and support individuals living with dementia. Snow’s methods are recognized globally and recently garnered attention for her advisory role in supporting actor Bruce Willis and his family in navigating his care after his diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia.

Understanding PAC
PAC is a holistic philosophy emphasizing empathy, dignity, and respect in all interactions with individuals with dementia. This approach recognizes each person’s unique life history, abilities, and preferences, guiding their journey with person-centered care.

Key Elements of PAC include:

· Person-centered care involves customizing care plans and interactions to meet the individual’s needs, preferences, and abilities.

· The Gems® Model helps care partners understand the stages of dementia, enabling them to adjust their approach accordingly.

· Positive communication, using clear, simple language, maintaining eye contact, and fostering a supportive environment are essential.

· Skill building equips care partners with practical skills to empower seniors, promote independence, and enhance quality of life.

Benefits of PAC for Individuals Living with Dementia and Their Families

PAC offers numerous benefits to individuals living with dementia and their families.

· Individuals maintain autonomy and experience a higher quality of life by focusing on individual strengths and preferences.

· Care partners gain confidence and competence through PAC® education and training. Positive communication techniques foster deeper connections between individuals, care partners, and families.

· PAC® reduces stress and frustration by promoting understanding, empathy, and effective coping strategies.

Evelyn Jensen, Executive Director of Carlton Senior Living San Leandro, shared her enthusiasm about this achievement, stating, “I am so proud of our team for embracing Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care®. This designation highlights our continuous effort to provide compassionate and innovative dementia care, aligning perfectly with Carlton’s three commitments: Love, Honor, and Provide.”

Jensen, who has extensive experience working with individuals living with dementia as the past executive director of Memory Care of Contra Costa, added, “I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Positive Approach to Care® and how it has connected residents, staff, and families.”

In achieving the Positive Approach to Care® designation, Carlton Senior Living reaffirms its dedication to excellence, compassion, and innovation in dementia care.

20, Jul 2024
Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals: A Legacy of Excellence in Medical Care and Commitment

Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals

20th July 2024  Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India  Established 15 years ago, Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals Kaushambi has emerged as a beacon of excellence in healthcare across North India. From its inception, the hospital has been dedicated to providing affordable yet world-class healthcare services adhering to the highest standards of medical ethics and compassion.

Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals accommodates healthcare professionals across a spectrum of medical disciplines providing exceptional medical and clinical services along with high-quality education and training opportunities. Over the years, they have solidified their position as a leading institution in India’s healthcare sector, distinguished for their expertise in specialized treatments, intricate surgeries, international standards, and advanced infrastructure. Yashoda’s commitment extends to serving communities with outstanding patient care marked by compassionate dedication and significant efforts.

The hospital’s ethos revolves around care and concern for patients and their families, commitment to continuous learning, teamwork, integrity in all internal operations, and pursuit of excellence through skilful execution. This philosophy not only guides the hospital’s daily operations but also inspires its medical professionals to excel in their fields.

Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure equipped with the latest technological advancements. This includes advanced diagnostic facilities, modern surgical theatres, and specialized treatment units for complex surgeries and super-specialty treatments. The hospital’s dedication to staying at the forefront of medical innovation has earned it accolades and recognitions, including being ranked 1st in the Times Health Survey’s All India Critical Care Hospital Ranking Survey for the NOIDA and Ghaziabad Zone in 2022, and 12th in the Multi-specialty Hospitals category for the Northern Region Zone.

In addition to its clinical excellence, Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals is renowned for its compassionate approach to patient care. Every member of the hospital’s staff is committed to ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention and the highest quality of medical treatment.

Under chairman, Dr. P N Arora’s visionary leadership, Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals has grown to become a comprehensive healthcare system offering multispecialty tertiary care services. Dr. Arora’s commitment to quality patient care and innovative healthcare solutions has been instrumental in shaping the hospital’s journey toward excellence.

“Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals is committed to integrating cutting-edge technology with compassionate patient care. Our mission is to deliver world-class healthcare services with a focus on quality, service excellence, empathy, and world-class healthcare services. Our vision is to create a comprehensive and integrated healthcare facility that not only treats illnesses but also promotes overall well-being. We aim to continue expanding our capabilities and services to meet the evolving healthcare needs of our community,” adds Dr. P N Arora.

Over the years, some of the prestigious awards and accolades Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals has garnered include the AHPI Healthcare Excellence Award for “Best Hospital to Work For” and the 1st prize in Swachh Survekshan 2022 in the Ghaziabad zone. These accolades are a testament to the hospital’s commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery and patient satisfaction.

Yashoda Super Speciality Hospital reaffirms its dedication to providing accessible, affordable, and top-notch healthcare services to the people of India. With a solid foundation built on integrity, compassion, and innovation the hospital looks forward to continuing its journey as a leader in the healthcare industry, setting new benchmarks for excellence and patient care. These efforts collectively contribute to establishing Yashoda Super Speciality Hospitals as a premier healthcare provider in the Delhi NCR region.

17, Jul 2024
MC4R Agonist Drug Candidates Demonstrate Potential to Transform GLP1 Obesity Therapy

MC4R Agonist Drug Candidates Demonstrate Potential to Transform GLP1 Obesity Therapy

Newton, MA, July 17, 2024 — Courage, a pre-clinical stage biotech company, announced groundbreaking results, funded in part by an NIDDK funded STTR research grant on obesity. The article “Subthreshold activation of the melanocortin system causes generalized sensitization to anorectic agents in mice” was published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation by senior author and Courage co-founder Dr. Roger Cone. It reports on synergy between GLP1RA and MC4R agonist drugs, demonstrating that low doses of MC4R agonists can significantly improve the dose-responsiveness of GLP1RA drugs to reduce food intake and drive weight loss through a novel mechanism that can improve GLP1RA weight loss efficacy without increasing side effects.

“This synergy between the MC4R circuit and GLP1RA agents could revolutionize the obesity treatment landscape similar to how GLP1/GIP combinations such as tirzepatide have recently shown dramatic improvements in weight loss,” said Dan Housman CEO.

Courage completed a successful four-year drug discovery campaign resulting in a market leading portfolio of optimized MC4R peptide agonist drug candidates designed to address the combination opportunity. Clinical candidates have demonstrated significantly higher potency and selectivity in animal models than setmelanotide, the only MC4R agonist currently approved for obesity treatment. The selectivity eliminates MC1R activity which drives a pigmentation side effect that has limited pharma development of MC4R agonists in dietary obesity. Combining Courage products with GLP1RA drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro in new ways is expected to improve the safety of GLP1RA drugs by lowering nausea, increasing physical activity, and reducing gastrointestinal discomfort.

“Based on their deep expertise in the field of melanocortin biology, Courage scientists have developed a range of peptide drugs that activate the MC4R. The potency and specificity of these drugs represent a significant advance on the only currently licensed activator of this receptor, setmelanotide. Their current paper in the Journal of Clinical Investigation Dahir et al adds to the evidence that combining low doses of a melanocortin 4 agonist with anti-obesity drugs acting through the GLP1Receptor can lead to greater weight loss in mice than when these drugs are used alone. Combining a specific and potent MC4R agonist with a drug acting on GLP1R opens up the exciting possibility of novel “dual action” anti-obesity agents with improved efficacy, safety and tolerability said Stephen O’Rahilly, Professor of Clinical Biochemistry and Medicine at the University of Cambridge and chair of Courage’s Scientific Advisory Board.

The company is initiating pre-clinical studies to bring product candidates into the clinic. Additionally, Courage is seeking partnerships with GLP1RA drug companies.
Go to the article: “Subthreshold activation of the melanocortin system causes generalized sensitization to anorectic agents in mice,” Journal of Clinical Investigation.

17, Jul 2024
How New Research Could Change the Way We Fight the Opioid Epidemic

Jupiter, FL, July 17, 2024 — New research from a Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience researcher could transform how we understand the way opioids affect the brain. Despite significant discussion surrounding the ongoing opioid crisis, current understanding of how opioids function in the brain is quite limited. This is primarily due to challenges in observing and measuring opioid effects in the brain in real-time. However, a recent technological breakthrough, led by Dr. Lin Tian and her research team and collaborators, recently published in Nature Neuroscience, has overcome these limitations and is set to transform how scientists study opioid signaling in the brain.

What do we know about opioid signaling?

Pharmaceutical opioids, such as morphine and oxycodone, and illicit opioid drugs like heroin, affect the brain and body by binding to opioid receptors on the surface of cells in the nervous system. These receptors normally respond to naturally produced chemicals that are released in your brain, called endogenous opioids, including endorphins, enkephalins, and dynorphins.

Released in response to pleasurable activities such as laughter, sex, and exercise and aversive activities like injury and trauma, these chemicals bind opioid receptors and reduce the ability of neurons to receive and transmit signals. These cellular effects ultimately lead to the cognitive and behavioral effects associated with opioids, including positive feelings, pain relief, and addiction.

Challenges in understanding opioid signaling
Numerous questions remain about how these behavioral effects are caused by opioids and whether it is possible to harness specific opioid properties such as pain relief without undesirable effects, such as addiction. The opioid scientific literature is extensive and has confirmed that targeting the opioid system is of clinical interest – not only for pain management but also, more recently, for the treatment of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. Development of therapeutics that can target these health challenges while preventing the tragedy of the current opioid epidemic requires further understanding of the diverse effects of opioids in the brain.

The diversity of opioid effects on the brain is driven by more than 20 different opioid chemicals produced in the brain and more than 500 different synthetic opioids. Most of these different opioids interact with all three types of opioid receptors with different strengths. Their varied effects depend on the concentration of opioid, the specific receptors present and the brain circuits involved.

“Efforts are underway to harness various therapeutic properties of opioids by targeting specific receptor actions and brain circuits to develop more effective and safer therapeutics. However, these efforts have been hampered by our inability to measure diverse opioid signaling in real time in the brain effectively,” said Dr. Tian.
New technology opens door to understanding opioids in brain
Through a massive effort developing and testing over 1,000 variants, Dr. Tian’s team has optimized highly-sensitive biosensors based on the three opioid receptors. These biosensors, originally developed while Tian was at the University of California, Davis, emit fluorescence upon opioid binding to the sensor and turn off when the opioid is no longer there. The biosensors, therefore, serve as a proxy for opioid binding to specific opioid receptors.

Introducing these sensors into the brain of an animal provides a way to visualize opioid signaling across the brain in real-time.

“The power of this new technology is that we now have the tools to understand the natural opioid system in the brain, including how to distinguish between different opioid effects. We can track endogenous opioid release in real-time, triggered by both reward and aversion and see the differences in opioid signaling in different brain circuits.”

Dr. Tian’s team has already been sharing these new tools widely to accelerate the impact this new technology will have on the understanding of opioids.

Citation:
Title: Unlocking opioid neuropeptide dynamics with genetically-encoded biosensors Authors: Chunyang Dong, Raajaram Gowrishankar, Yihan Jin, Xinyi Jenny He, Achla Gupta, Huikun Wang, Nilüfer Sayar Atasoy, Rodolfo Flores-Garcia, Karan Mahe, Nikki Tjahjono, Ruqiang Liang, Aaron Marley, Grace Or Mizuno, Darren Kirin Lo, Qingtao Sun, Jennifer L. Whistler1, Bo Li, Ivone Gomes, Mark Von Zastrow, Hugo A Tejeda, Deniz Atasoy, Lakshmi A Devi, Michael R. Bruchas, Matthew R. Banghart, Lin Tian
Journal: Nature Neuroscience

16, Jul 2024
New York Cancer & Blood Specialists Opens State-of-the-Art Cancer Center in Port Jefferson Station

New York Cancer & Blood Specialists Opens State-of-the-Art Cancer Center in Port Jefferson Station

Port Jefferson Station, NY, July 16, 2024 — New York Cancer & Blood Specialists (NYCBS), one of the Nation’s leading oncology practices, is proud to announce its new state-of-the-art comprehensive cancer center at 1500 Route 112, Building 1. The center is approximately 18,000 square feet and just across the parking lot from its previous location in Building 1.

“Our new facility represents a significant step forward in our mission to deliver world-class cancer care,” said Dr. Jeff Vacirca, Chief Executive Officer of NYCBS. “With this new space, we can see even more patients, ensuring everyone receives the timely and comprehensive care they need. This move allows us to provide integrated, patient-centered care in a modern and comfortable setting, reflecting our dedication to improving patient outcomes and experiences.”

The new facility, equipped with cutting-edge technology and expanded services, is designed to enhance patient care and comfort. NYCBS’s experienced oncologists will continue to provide comprehensive cancer care using the latest advancements. The new facility increases capacity, with 33 infusion chairs and 26 exam rooms, ensuring reduced wait times for timely and efficient treatment.

The advanced radiology department offers precise diagnostic imaging, featuring a 64-slice Evo CT scanner and ultrasound capabilities. A unique and significant feature of the new facility is the dedicated wellness suite, established through a partnership with Mondays at Racine. This suite provides free services to patients, such as oncology massage, skincare, and beauty treatments, to support their overall well-being. NYCBS remains dedicated to patients and their families, striving to make every visit as positive and supportive as possible.

16, Jul 2024
SYNAPS Dx Welcomes Renowned Alzheimer’s Researcher, Dr. Donna Wilcock, to Its Scientific Advisory Board

SYNAPS Dx Welcomes Renowned Alzheimer’s Researcher, Dr. Donna Wilcock, to Its Scientific Advisory Board

North Bethesda, MD, July 16, 2024 –(SYNAPS Dx, a leader in the development of innovative diagnostics for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), is proud to announce the addition of Donna M. Wilcock, Ph.D., to its Scientific Advisory Board. Donna Wilcock, PhD is the Barbara and Larry Sharpf Professor in Alzheimer’s Disease Research and Director of the Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Wilcock serves as a member of Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, the Indiana Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (IADRC), and the Editor-in-Chief or Alzheimer’s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Dr. Wilcock brings an extensive background in AD with a focus on the key factors driving cognitive impairment and dementia such as neuroinflammation and vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). With a B.S. in Pharmacology from Cardiff University, a Ph.D. from the University of South Florida, and postdoctoral training at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Duke University, her expertise and groundbreaking research will be invaluable to SYNAPS Dx as the company continues to advance the DISCERN™ diagnostic test for Alzheimer’s disease.

“Dr. Wilcock’s exceptional research into the molecular mechanisms and identification of novel biomarkers and comorbidities in AD and VCID adds a critical dimension to our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and its comorbidities,” said Paul Tanico, Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Chairman at SYNAPS Dx.

Dr. Wilcock’s research, funded by the National Institute on Aging and the National Institute on Neurological Disorders and Stroke, focusing on inflammatory and angiogenic processes and their influence on the progression and severity of Alzheimer’s disease positions her as a leading voice in the field.

“As we continue to see the impact of our DISCERN™ test in the community, bringing Dr. Wilcock on board reinforces our commitment to staying at the forefront of Alzheimer’s disease research and diagnosis,” Tanico added. “Her expertise will be instrumental in guiding our research and development efforts, ensuring that DISCERN™ remains the most accurate and minimally invasive diagnostic test for Alzheimer’s disease available.”

16, Jul 2024
Atlantic Health Strategies Welcomes Melissa Scopa as Director of Quality Assurance

Atlantic Health Strategies Welcomes Melissa Scopa as Director of Quality Assurance

West Palm Beach, FL, July 16, 2024 –Atlantic Health Strategies is pleased to announce the appointment of Melissa Scopa as the new Director of Quality Assurance. Melissa joins the team with over a decade of notable experience in quality assurance and compliance within the behavioral health sector, specializing in substance use disorder and mental health.

In her previous roles, Melissa has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing service delivery through meticulous compliance and quality assurance initiatives. Her expertise encompasses a wide range of regulatory and payer requirements, enriching and strengthening the Atlantic Health Strategies team.

At Atlantic Health Strategies, Melissa will lead efforts to ensure that their clients not only meet but exceed regulatory standards and payer expectations. Her work will be crucial in guiding our growing client base through the complexities of compliance program design, navigating payer audits, adhering to rigorous guidelines, and developing effective corrective action plans.

“Melissa’s extensive experience and proven track record in leading quality assurance teams will be invaluable as we continue to expand our services and deliver exceptional value to our clients,” said Leah Kendall, Chief Compliance Officer at Atlantic Health Strategies. “We are thrilled to have her on board and are confident that her contributions will enhance our capabilities in serving our clients.”

Melissa is equally enthusiastic about her new role, stating, “I am excited to join Atlantic Health Strategies and to contribute to their admirable reputation in the industry. I look forward to working with the team to further strengthen our compliance frameworks and quality assurance processes.”

Melissa’s appointment is effective July 15, 2024 and she will be based at the Atlantic Health Strategies headquarters in West Palm Beach, Florida.

15, Jul 2024
Pennington Biomedical’s Small Shift for July: Prioritizing Sleep

Baton Rouge, LA, July 15, 2024 — Small shifts can make a big impact on a person’s long-term health, and that includes catching some Z’s. Quality sleep is essential for physical health, mental clarity and emotional resilience. This month, making a few small adjustments to sleep routines can enhance overall health and energy levels.

Here are a few tips to help prioritize sleep:

Create a Sleep Schedule: Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock.

Wind Down Before Bed: Establish a relaxing pre-sleep routine. This might include reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing meditation.

Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens at least an hour before bedtime. The blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your sleep cycle.

Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Make your bedroom a sleep sanctuary. Keep it cool, dark, and quiet, and invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.

“Sleep is complex, but it affects everything,” said Associate Professor Dr. Prachi Singh, director of the Pennington Biomedical’s Sleep and Cardiometabolic Health Lab. “Your mental health and your physical health, everything is interconnected.”

For those who find sleep challenging, they can try making small shifts to their nighttime routine. Dr. Singh said that one of the best things about sleep is that people are naturally inclined to do it. And it doesn’t cost anything.

“Sleep is free!” Dr. Singh said. “It’s the easiest thing you can do to improve your health. If you focus on improving sleep, then depression and anxiety levels go down. You’re able to feel happier and see an improved quality of life.”

This year, the Pennington Biomedical Research Center is encouraging “Small Shifts” in food choices, exercise and daily routines. Through research studies undertaken by Pennington Biomedical scientists, the common refrain that emerged is that subtle, simple adjustments to personal habits and choices can build a foundation for lasting well-being.

Small shifts are something that everyone can do and can be incorporated into everyday life. Small shifts add up, and they are reinforcing, which further promotes the activity.

“In our mission to address and prevent disease, we feel that small shifts in diet, attitude, exercise and behavior can go a long way toward improving not only general health, but mental, physical and emotional health,” said Dr. John Kirwan, Pennington Biomedical Executive Director.

To take part in Pennington Biomedical’s “Small Shifts” campaign, people are encouraged to sign up online at pbrc.edu/smallshifts. Upon signing up, participants will receive a free health journal with helpful resources, a habit tracker, a meal planner and recipes from Pennington Biomedical’s Metabolic Research Kitchen.

Additionally, participants will receive monthly “Small Shifts” messages in which researchers will provide guidance through new small shifts. Participants’ names will be entered into monthly drawings for giveaways, including water bottles, t-shirts, Bluetooth earphones and other prizes.