StemCell Therapy

TEL AVIV, Israel, June 04, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VBL Therapeutics (Nasdaq: VBLT), (the Company) today announced new data implicating the potential of its proprietary anti-MOSPD2 antibodies for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). VBL's study entitled MOSPD2: A novel therapeutic target for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, is being presented today at the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) 2020 E-Congress.

VBL's new data highlight several key findings:

"These encouraging results may open new possibilities for treatment of anti-MOSPD2 antibodies for RA," said Eyal Breitbart, Ph.D., VP Research and Operations of VBL Therapeutics."We continue to see a clear pattern across multiple indications by inhibiting monocyte migration, our proprietary antibodies lead to meaningful and durable benefit in various models of chronic inflammatory diseases.

The new results add to a growing body of data demonstrated activity of VBL's antibodies in models of multiple sclerosis, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and colitis. VBL continues to advance lead candidate VB-601 towards a first-in-man study, which is expected to begin in 2021.

For a link to VBL's presentation at the EULAR conference, see: Poster Presentation

About VBL's VB-600 PlatformVBL is conducting two parallel drug development programs that are exploring the potential of MOSPD2 (motile sperm domain-containing protein 2), a protein that VBL has identified as a key regulator of cell motility, as a therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases and cancer. Our VB-600 platform comprises classical anti-MOSPD2 monoclonal antibodies for inflammatory indications, as well as bi-specific antibody candidates for oncology.

About VBLVascular Biogenics Ltd., operating as VBL Therapeutics, is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of first-in-class treatments for cancer. VBLs lead oncology product candidate, ofranergene obadenovec (VB-111), is a first-in-class, targeted anti-cancer gene-therapy agent that is being developed to treat a wide range of solid tumors. It is conveniently administered as an IV infusion once every two months. It has been observed to be well-tolerated in >300 cancer patients and demonstrated activity signals in a VBL-sponsored all comers phase 1 trial as well as in three VBL-sponsored tumor-specific phase 2 studies. Ofranergene obadenovec is currently being studied in a VBL-sponsored phase 3 potential registration trial for platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.

Forward Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, which are often indicated by terms such as anticipate, believe, could, estimate, expect, goal, intend, look forward to, may, plan, potential, predict, project, should, will, would and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our programs, including MOSPD2, including their clinical development, therapeutic potential and clinical results. These forward-looking statements are not promises or guarantees and involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described or projected herein include uncertainties associated generally with research and development, clinical trials and related regulatory reviews and approvals, the risk that historical clinical trial results may not be predictive of future trial results, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business, operations, clinical trials, supply chain, strategy, goals and anticipated timelines and clinical results, that our financial resources do not last for as long as anticipated, and that we may not realize the expected benefits of our intellectual property protection. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties and other risks can be found in our regulatory filings with theU.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year endedDecember 31, 2019, and subsequent filings with theSEC. Existing and prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.VBL Therapeuticsundertakes no obligation to update or revise the information contained in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise.

INVESTOR CONTACT:Michael RiceLifeSci Advisors, LLC(646) 597-6979

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VBL Presents New Data on the Potential of its Novel anti-MOSPD2 Monoclonal Antibodies for Rheumatoid Arthritis at the EULAR 2020 Congress -...

Public Health Column: May is Arthritis Awareness Month

Arthritis is one of the most widespread health conditions in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one in every four adults live with the pain of arthritis (1.*)

To recognize this toll on Americans health, the CDC and the Arthritis Foundation observe Arthritis Awareness Month every May. Paul Pettit, Public Health director of Genesee and Orleans counties, proclaims the importance of the month.

It is imperative to recognize arthritis awareness month as many of our local community members are faced with this debilitating health condition," Pettit said. "Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are many effective treatments available and lifestyle changes that can benefit the quality of life for people suffering with this disease. We want our community to know that help and specialists are available so that no one has to suffer.

Arthritis is the name of a disease that covers a wide variety of conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia, and gout. Common symptoms of arthritis include swelling, pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion.

Symptoms may come and go and can range from mild to severe. Severe arthritis can result in chronic pain, inability to do daily activities and make it difficult to walk or climb stairs. Arthritis can cause permanent joint changes. These changes may be visible, such as knobby finger joints, but often the damage can only be seen on X-ray.

Some types of arthritis also affect the heart, eyes, lungs, kidneys and skin as well as the joints.

The arthritis rate in Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties in 2016 (crude rate, percentage of people with this health condition per reported region/county), and in New York State are (2.**):

During the coronavirus pandemic, we understand that older ndividuals and people with autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, may be more likely to get seriously sick if they do become infected with the virus, so it is important to take appropriate precautions, Pettit said.

It is important that healthy individuals continue taking their medications as prescribed by their physician and to practice social distancing,wearing a face mask or cloth face shield, and to wash hands frequently for 20 seconds.

*Centers for Disease Control and Prevention -- Arthritis Awareness Month. Reviewed May 2017. Accessed May 27, 2020.

**New York State Department of Health. Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Health Indicators by County. Accessed May 27, 2020.

Engaging in physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage arthritis symptoms.

Physical activity can reduce arthritis pain, improve function and mood, and delay the onset of disability. All adults should get two hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, per week and do muscle-strengthening activities two or more days a week.

You can achieve these goals by taking brisk walks for 30 minutes a day, five days a week. You can also break it up into 10 minute sessions and spread it out during the day walk the dog 10 minutes in the morning, take a 10-minute walk to the post office, coffee shop, or grocery store in the afternoon, and then take a 10-minute walk after dinner.

Make sure to talk to your doctor about new or worsening arthritis symptoms. You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in arthritis and related conditions such as a rheumatologist or orthopedist. For more information on arthritis, clickhere.

For information about Health Department services contact the Genesee County Health Department at: 344-2580, ext. 5555, or visit their website.

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arthritis awareness month - The Batavian

AbbVie has submitted an application to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for review of upadacitinib in the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in adults.

The application is supported by data from two phase 3 studies (SELECT-PsA 1 and SELECT-PsA 2) that assessed the efficacy and safety of upadacitinib (15mg and 30mg) in more than 2000 adults with active PsA. SELECT-PsA 1 compared upadacitinib with placebo and adalimumab; SELECT-PsA 2 compared upadacitinib with placebo. The primary end point for both studies was the proportion of patients who achieved an American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20 response at week 12.

Results from SELECT-PsA 1 showed that upadacitinib 15mg and 30mg achieved noninferiority at week 12 compared with adalimumab, with the 30mg dose showing superiority. Both doses of upadacitinib achieved statistically significant ACR20, ACR50, and ACR70 responses at week 12 compared with placebo, along with significant improvements for key secondary end points, including the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI), Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI 75), and Minimal disease activity (MDA).

Additionally, findings from SELECT-PsA 2 demonstrated both doses of upadacitinib achieved statistically significant ACR 20, ACR50, and ACR70 responses at week 12 compared with placebo. Both doses of upadacitinib also achieved statistically significant responses for PASI 75 and MDA compared with placebo.

With regard to safety, upadacitinib demonstrated a profile consistent with that seen in previous clinical studies.

Upadacitinib, a selective and reversible Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor, is currently marketed under the brand name Rinvoq and is indicated for the treatment of moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis in adults who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to methotrexate.

For more information visit abbvie.com.

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Upadacitinib Application for Active Psoriatic Arthritis Submitted for Review - Monthly Prescribing Reference

Rheumatologist visits within 6 weeks of symptom onset was associated with greater likelihood of sustained disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD)-free remission in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA), according to study results published in Lancet Rheumatology.

This observational study enrolled patients with RA from 2 existing cohort studies, including the Leiden Early Arthritis Clinic (EAC) and the French Etude et Suivi des Polyarthrites Indifferencies Recentes (ESPOIR). Patients with available symptom onset and remission data were eligible for inclusion in the study. In the present analysis, patients were categorized into 3 groups based on time between symptom onset and first encounter with a rheumatologist: within 6 weeks; within 7 to 12 weeks; and after 12 weeks. The primary outcome was sustained DMARD-free remission, identified from EAC and ESPOIR records. Radiographic progression was also assessed. Multivariable Cox regression was used to assess the relationship between time-to-referral and DMARD-free remission. Models were adjusted for relevant demographic and clinical characteristics, including age, sex, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, swollen joint count, and anti-citrullinated protein antibodies.

The present analysis included 1025 patients from the EAC and 514 patients from the ESPOIR. Mean follow-up time was 7.1 years (interquartile range [IQR], 3.9-12.2 years) and 10.0 years (IQR, 9.0-10.0 years) in the EAC and ESPOIR, respectively. After 7 years of follow-up in the EAC, DMARD-free remission was achieved by 30 (24%) of 127 patients with a time to encounter of 6 weeks, 45 (20%) of 223 patients with a time of 7 to 12 weeks, and 100 (15%) of 675 patients with a time of >12 weeks. After 10 years of follow-up in the ESPOIR, sustained DMARD-free remission was achieved by 3 (27%) of 11 patients with a time to encounter of 6 weeks, 11 (11%) of 100 patients with a time of 7 to 12 weeks, and 41 (10%) of 403 patients with a time of >12 weeks.

According to Cox regression models for the EAC cohort, patients who encountered a rheumatologist within 6 weeks of symptom onset were significantly more likely to achieve sustained DMARD-free remission than patients with a time of 7 to 12 weeks (hazard ratio [HR], 1.59; 95% CI, 1.02-2.49; P =.042) and >12 weeks (HR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.04-2.29; P =.032). Similar trends were observed in the ESPOIR cohort, though results were not statistically significant. Results from pooled analyses showed that , there was a greater likelihood of achieving DMARD-free sustained remission with a time to encounter of 6 weeks than a time of 7 to 12 weeks (HR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.10-2.57; P =.016) and >12 weeks (HR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.08-2.58; P =.020). In both the EAC and ESPOIR cohorts, patients who visited a rheumatologist within 6 weeks had similar radiographic progression compared with patients in the other time-to-encounter strata.

These data suggest that early referral to a rheumatologist was associated with achieving sustained DMARD-free remission; however, early referral did not significantly affect radiographic progression.

As study limitations, investigators noted that symptom onset was patient-reported rather than defined by a validated symptom scale. As such, significant heterogeneity may likely exist in the definition of symptom onset.

[A]chieving a time to encounter within 6 weeks, although challenging, might become of increasing importance, the investigators wrote.

Reference

Niemantsverdriet E, Dougados M, Combe B, van der Helm-van Mil AHM. Referring early arthritis patients within 6 weeks versus 12 weeks after symptom onset: an observational cohort study [published online April 28, 2020]. Lancet Rheumatol. doi:10.1016/S2665-9913(20)30061-8

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Earlier Time-to-Referral Predicts Increased Likelihood of Achieving DMARD-Free Remission in Rheumatoid Arthritis - Rheumatology Advisor

A team led by researchers atBaylor College of Medicinein collaboration with Medterra CBD conducted the first scientific studies to assess the potential therapeutic effects of cannabidiol (CBD) for arthritic pain in dogs, and the results could lead the way to studying its effect in humans.

Researchers focused first on these animals because their condition closely mimics the characteristics of human arthritis, the leading cause of pain and disability in the U.S. for which there is no effective treatment.

Published in the journalPAIN, the study first showed both in laboratory tests and mouse models that CBD, a non-addictive product derived from hemp (cannabis), can significantly reduce the production of inflammatory molecules and immune cells associated with arthritis.

Subsequently, the study showed that in dogs diagnosed with the condition, CBD treatment significantly improved quality of life as documented by both owner and veterinarian assessments. This work supports future scientific evaluation of CBD for human arthritis.

CBD is rapidly increasing in popularity due to its anecdotal health benefits for a variety of conditions, from reducing anxiety to helping with movement disorders, said corresponding author Dr. Matthew Halpert, research faculty in the Department ofPathology and Immunologyat Baylor. In 2019, Medterra CBD approached Baylor to conduct independent scientific studies to determine the biological capabilities of several of its products.

In the current study, Halpert and his colleagues first measured the effect of CBD on immune responses associated with arthritis, both in human and murine cells grown in the lab and in mouse models. Using Medterra tinctures, they found that CBD treatment resulted in reduced production of both inflammatory molecules and immune cells linked to arthritis.

The researchers also determined that the effect was quicker and more effective when CBD was delivered encapsulated in liposomes than when it was administered naked. Liposomes are artificially formed tiny spherical sacs that are used to deliver drugs and other substances into tissues at higher rates of absorption.

Halpert and colleagues next assessed the effect of naked and liposome-encapsulated CBD on the quality of life of dogs diagnosed with arthritis.

We studied dogs because experimental evidence shows that spontaneous models of arthritis, particularly in domesticated canine models, are more appropriate for assessing human arthritis pain treatments than other animal models. The biological characteristics of arthritis in dogs closely resemble those of the human condition, Halpert said.

Arthritis is a common condition in dogs. According to theAmerican Kennel Club, it affects one out of five dogs in the United States.

The 20 client-owned dogs enrolled in the study were seen at Sunset Animal Hospital in Houston. The dog owners were randomly provided with identical unidentified medication bottles that contained CBD, liposomal CBD, or a placebo. Neither the owners nor the veterinarian knew which treatment each dog received.

After four weeks of daily treatment, owners and veterinarians reported on the condition of the dogs, whether they observed changes in the animals level of pain, such as changes related to running or gait. The dogs cell blood count and blood indicators of liver and kidney function also were evaluated before and after the four weeks of treatment.

We found encouraging results, Halpert said. Nine of the 10 dogs on CBD showed benefits, which remained for two weeks after the treatment stopped. We did not detect alterations in the blood markers we measured, suggesting that, under the conditions of our study, the treatment seems to be safe.

The findings support conducting studies to evaluate CBD for the treatment of human arthritis.

Other contributors to this work include Chris D. Verrico, Shonda Wesson, Vanaja Konduri, Colby Hofferek, Jonathan Vazquez-Perez, Emek Blair, Kenneth Dunner Jr, Pedram Salimpour, William K. Decker. The authors are associated with Baylor College of Medicine, Sunset Animal Hospital, Valimenta Labs, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and Boston University School of Medicine.

This study was funded in part by a sponsored research agreement between Medterra CBD Inc and Baylor College of Medicine. This project also was supported in part by the Cytometry and Cell Sorting Core at Baylor College of Medicine with funding from the NIH (grants AI036211, CA125123 and RR024574).

Decker, Halpert and Konduri declare their ownership stakes in Diakonos Research, Ltd, an unrelated immuno-oncology company. Additionally, Halpert is a paid scientific advisor for Medterra CBD.

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Baylor Researchers find that CBD improves arthritis symptoms in dogs - El Paso Herald-Post

INCHEON, South Korea--(BUSINESS WIRE)--At the European E-Congress of Rheumatology 2020 (The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) 2020 E-Congress), Celltrion Healthcare today showcased three sets of data relating to a subcutaneous formulation of infliximab, Remsima SC.

The first study demonstrated no impact of body mass index (BMI) on clinical response to CT-P13 SC in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA).1 The post-hoc study investigated the impact of BMI on clinical response to CT-P13 SC in part 2 of a phase I/III randomised controlled trial (RCT) in 165 patients throughout a 1-year treatment period.1 Patients were categorized into 3 groups; under/normal weight (<25kg/m2), overweight (25kg/m2, <30kg/m2), and obesity (30kg/m2) based on the WHO BMI classification. The three groups received at least one full dose of CT-P13 SC (after IV induction) in the initial treatment stage before week 30. The data show that the mean change from baseline of DAS28 (CRP) (-3.3, -3.1, -3.3 at week 54), duration of low disease activity (LDA) up to Week 54 (26.2, 29.2, 27.9 weeks), and the good or moderate EULAR responder rates (84.1%, 80.3%, 90.2% at week 54) were all comparable among all groups and there were no statistically significant differences.1

Rene Westhovens, rheumatologist and one of the lead investigators of the trial, Emeritus Professor at the KU Leuven, Belgium said, The post-hoc results showed that there was no impact of BMI on the clinical responses of CT-P13 SC 120 mg biweekly in RA patients. Therefore, Remsima SC could be a promising therapeutic option regardless of BMI in RA patients.

The second study presented contained 1-year data from a multicenter, randomised, controlled, pivotal trial evaluating correlation between the magnitude of anti-drug antibody (ADA) positivity and clinical outcomes in RA patients. The results indicated that clinical analysis of both ADA positivity and titer are clinically meaningful in the prediction of pharmacokinetic (PK) profile and clinical response. CT-P13 SC administration did not result in a greater incidence of ADA compared to CT-P13 IV and there were no clinical differences between the formulations.2

A third study presented at EULAR, assessing budget impact analysis (BIA) data, indicated that the introduction of CT-P13 SC could lead to substantial cost savings for healthcare systems. The analysis compared a market scenario where a proportion of patients were treated with CT-P13 SC, to an alternative scenario where CT-P13 SC was not available and all patients were treated with IV formulations.3

The data show that introduction of CT-P13 SC resulted in potential cost savings of 39.6 million in the UK over a 5-year period, equating to 4,466 additional patients who could be treated with the SC formulation. In a second scenario which took into account IV dose-escalation up to 5mg/kg to reflect the real-world setting, the savings increased to 279.6 million over a 5-year period, equating to 30,839 additional patients able to be treated with CT-P13 SC.3

Self-injection will significantly reduce the burden on healthcare delivery allowing resource to be spent elsewhere, said Dr. Martin Perry at Royal Alexandra Hospital, United Kingdom. With the pressure of meeting patient need and the increasing burden on healthcare systems, there is a greater demand than ever to deliver new and innovative treatment options that enable patients to live more independently, reduce the time spent in hospitals and in turn, lessen the pressures put on healthcare systems.

Remsima SC has the potential to offer patients a more convenient method of administration, whilst retaining the same clinical benefits found in the IV formulation of Remsima, said Mr. Hyoung-Ki Kim, Vice Chairman at Celltrion Healthcare. This should not only bring improvements to quality of life for patients, but also to healthcare systems who we anticipate could experience both time and cost savings by enabling home administration of Remsima SC.

-- ENDS --

Notes to Editors

About CT-P13 (biosimilar infliximab)4,5,6

CT-P13 is developed and manufactured by Celltrion, Inc. and was the worlds first monoclonal antibody biosimilar approved by the European Commission (EC). It is indicated for the treatment of eight autoimmune diseases including RA and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It was approved by the EC under the trade name Remsima in September 2013 and launched in major EU countries in early 2015. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved CT-P13 in April 2016 under the trade name Inflectra. CT-P13 is approved in more than 94 countries (as of June 2020) including the US, Canada, Japan and throughout Europe.

CT-P13 IV is usually given as 3mg per kg/body weight in RA and as 5mg per kg/body weight for the other indications. Infliximab IV is given as an infusion over two hours. All patients are monitored for any reactions during the infusion and for at least one to two hours afterwards. Celltrion has also developed a subcutaneous (SC) formulation of infliximab that has three administration options; via a pre-filled pen (auto injector), pre-filled syringe or pre-filled syringe with needle safeguard. The SC formulation has the potential to enhance treatment options for the use of infliximab biosimilar by providing high consistency in drug exposure and a convenient method of administration.

CT-P13 SC has received a positive opinion from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) and EU marketing authorisation for the treatment of people with RA. Celltrion has submitted a further variation to the marketing authorisation of CT-P13 SC to extend the indication to other disease areas including inflammatory bowel disease. In the United States, CT-P13 SC will be reviewed through the new drug pathway with the expectation of receiving US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval by 2022.

About Celltrion Healthcare

Celltrion Healthcare is committed to delivering innovative and affordable medications to promote patients access to advanced therapies. Its products are manufactured at state-of-the-art mammalian cell culture facilities, designed and built to comply with the US FDA cGMP and the EU GMP guidelines. Celltrion Healthcare endeavours to offer high-quality cost-effective solutions through an extensive global network that spans more than 110 different countries. For more information please visit: https://www.celltrionhealthcare.com/en-us

References

1 Yoo DH, Westhovens R et al. Impacts of Body Mass Index on Clinical Response of Novel Subcutaneous Infliximab (CT-P13 SC) in Patients with Active Rheumatoid Arthritis: 1-Year Results from a Part 2 of Phase I/III Randomized Controlled Trial. Poster. Presented at EULAR 2020 E-Congress.

2 Westhovens R, Yoo DH et al. Clinical Evaluation of the Immunogenicity to CT-P13 for Subcutaneous Use in Patients with Active Rheumatoid arthritis: 1-Year Clinical Results from a Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Pivotal Trial. Poster. Presented at EULAR 2020 E-Congress.

3 Perry M and Chung SI. Budget Impact Analysis of Introducing subcutaneous infliximab CT-P13 SC from the UK payer perspective. Poster. Presented at EULAR 2020 E-Congress.

4 Yoo DH, Jaworski J, Matyska-Piekarska E et al. A Novel Formulation of CT-P13 (Infliximab Biosimilar) for Subcutaneous Administration: One Year Results from Part One of a Phase I/III Randomised Controlled Trial in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Poster (FRI0128) Presented at EULAR 2019.

5 Westhovens R, Wiland P, Zawadzki M et al. A Novel Formulation of CT-P13 (Infliximab Biosimilar) for Subcutaneous Administration: 30-week Results from Part Two of a Phase I/III Randomised Controlled Trial in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Poster (SAT0170) Presented at EULAR 2019.

6 European Medicines Agency Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC). CT-P13. Available at http://www.ema.europa.eu/docs/en_GB/document_library/EPAR_-_Product_Information/human/002576/WC500150871.pdf [Last accessed May 2020].

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Celltrion Healthcare showcases positive 1-year data and budget impact analysis for novel subcutaneous formulation of infliximab in patients with...

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Unioto graduate Maria DiFrango plans on going to Ohio University in the fall to study music education. (Photo: Robert McGraw/Gazette)

CHILLICOTHE Growing up, one Union-Scioto Local Schools student loved playing music. But a diagnosis during her junior year of high school nearly put her passions at risk.

Maria DiFrango, a senior at Unioto High School, has been involved in the school's music and band programs since the sixth grade. But during the summer before her junior year of high school, DiFrango's hands started to hurt. Then, it became difficult to play and practice. Soon after, DiFrango was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

"For me, this means that my joints and hands hurt," she said. "That makes it hard to do the things I like to do."

DiFrango's love of music began at a young age. She remembers always singing in the shower and practicing instruments as a child. When her older brother began playing percussion in school, DiFrango knew she wanted to follow suit.

In sixth grade, she joined the school band. Since then she's gone on to participate in marching band, music programs outside of her school and at church.

But towards the end of DiFrango's sophomore year, she began to notice that her hands, fingers and knuckles would ache. Up until then, she showed no symptoms ofrheumatoid arthritis. Although lupus runs in her family, DiFrango never suspected that she had it. At times, DiFrango's pain and stiffness were so bad that she couldn't even open doors.

That summer, her family took her to a physician where she underwent tests. Although there is no test for lupus, DiFrango met all of the criteria to be diagnosed. She was given medication for both conditions in hopes that her pain would be alleviated, allowing her to continue performing music.

As DiFrango waited to see if the medicine was the right fit for her, she began learning her own boundaries will playing instruments to ensure she didn't overexert herself. Yet she remained determined to prove she would still be a successful musician.

Most of her inspiration came from the fact that in the drumline of the school's marching band, DiFrango is surrounded by male classmates. Feeling like she already had to prove herself, DiFrango pushed herself each time she performed. Furthermore, as the field commander for the marching band, DiFrango felt a responsibility to students who look up to her.

"As a leader, I can't set the example that giving up is an option," she said.

And she didn't.

DiFrango continued to play and perform and has since been generally pain free. One of the hardest things about her diagnosis is the fact that the medication DiFrango takes weakens her immune system. So when the flu shutdown most school districts this fall, and with the coronavirus pandemic, it's been a scary time for DiFrango.

Despite it, she has continued to perform music at her home. DiFrango has completed eight months of preparation on pieces to perform at three different college auditions. She ultimately decided to attend Ohio University where she earned a $7,300 talent scholarship to study music education. While at college, DiFrango plans to join as many musical groups as she can.

"Band has always been a part of my life. It has given me a sense of family," she said. "While I am passionate about music, teaching is my joy and to teach, you have to do."

Have a story tip or comment?Contact Toria at tbarnhart@gannett.com or 740-349-1106. Follow her on Twitter @ToriaBarnhart.

Read or Share this story: https://www.chillicothegazette.com/story/news/2020/06/01/unioto-senior-continues-performing-despite-arthritis-lupus-diagnosis/5274114002/

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Unioto senior living with arthritis, lupus doesn't waiver on her passion to perform music - Chillicothe Gazette

Grinne OLeary, CEO of Arthritis Ireland

ARTHRITIS Ireland is encouraging Carlovians to raise funds by running, jogging, walking or cycling 30km over the 30 days of June to support people living with arthritis.

The 30 in 30 challenge will help raise vital funds to enable the charity deliver services to people with arthritis.

Nearly one-million people are living with the condition in Ireland, including 1,200 children. Many of those with arthritis have been severely impacted by the pandemic because they are immuno-suppressed or aged over 70.Arthritis Ireland chief executive Grinne OLeary said: Were working incredibly hard to meet the needs of people with arthritis at this challenging time. Our self-management classes and exercise programmes are now online and were developing further initiatives to support people where theyre at. Our helpline and online forums have been valuable sources of trusted information for people.

Fundraising income at the charity has been significantly impacted by the pandemic, she said. The extraordinary generosity of the public enables us deliver services for people with arthritis all over the country. Weve had to cancel or postpone our scheduled fundraising activity, so 30 in 30 is a safe, healthy and fun way to support our work at this challenging time.

Participants can choose to walk, run or cycle 30km in 30 days this June. You can choose to do a single kilometre a day, break it into bigger chunks or take on the full 30km in one go.

This is an entirely flexible challenge that will suit people of all fitness levels. Take part in your own time, anywhere across the country, near your home or in your local park. Our only ask is to make sure to do it safely and in line with the latest government advice, added Grinne.

Kaitlin Fenelon from Laois is one of those taking part in 30 in 30. Kaitlin says that after she was diagnosed with arthritis, she was very confused.

I didnt know how to handle my pain and it had a huge impact on my mental health, she said. I attended a self-management course organised by Arthritis Ireland and cant describe how much it helped me. I want to fundraise so that they have the resources to organise more courses and help more people that are as confused as I was.

To find out more and to register for 30 in 30, visit the Arthritis Ireland website at http://www.arthritisireland.ie.

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30km in 30 days for Arthritis Ireland | Carlow Nationalist - The Nationalist

Researchers from the Baylor College of Medicine, within the Texas Medical Center, published a study this week on the therapeutic potential of CBD for dogs experiencing pain from arthritis. The condition frequently affects canines, and there are few treatment options.

The research, which was published in the peer-reviewed journal Pain, started with human and murine (rodent) cells, and with mouse models. It was through this early research, Matthew Halpert, lead researcher on the study, told Cannabis Wire, that CBD first showed great promise in reducing the production of the types of inflammatory molecules and immune cells linked to arthritis, and the subsequent pain.

Researchers used CBD from Medterra, a company that produces hemp-derived CBD products, and with which Halpert is affiliated. (Cannabis Wire recently published a story about the rising involvement of the cannabis industry in research, and we asked the lead researcher about this balance, which he answers below.)

Next, researchers identified 20 dogs at Sunset Animal Hospital in Houston that would participate in the study. Dogs, which included larger breeds like Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds, were either given a high CBD dose (50 mg), a liposomal CBD dose of 20 mg (which means that liposomal sacs are used in an effort to increase absorption rates), or a placebo.

Researchers found that the owners of nine out of the ten dogs who received CBD reported some kind of improvement. In some cases, it was dramatic, Halpert said.

The Food and Drug Administration is currently crafting rules for CBD products, and has opened their public comment window indefinitely, which Cannabis Wire covered. The FDA also regulates drugs for animals.

It should be noted that CBD products have spiked in popularity among pet owners in recent years. But in November, the FDA emphasized its concerns regarding these products in a pre-Thanksgiving update regarding CBD product regulation.

Concerns regarding CBD products with unproven medical claims and of unknown quality equally apply to CBD products marketed for animals, the FDA noted, urging pet owners to talk to their vets about appropriate treatment options for their pets.

Still, Medterra CEO Jay Hartenbach told Cannabis Wire that these results have already been shared with the FDA. Knowing that this data was going to go to the FDA, it was very important for us to study both the efficacy and side effect profile of the CBD treatment. We know the FDA is very interested in gathering as much safety data as possible with ingestible CBD.

Cannabis Wire had a conversation with Halpert to better understand this research, what the implications are for dogsand possibly humanswhen it comes to CBD, and whats next for his research.

(This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.)

Alyson Martin, Cannabis Wire: What inspired this research on CBD and arthritis in dogs?

Matthew Halpert, lead researcher: This was kind of a collaborative effort between myself, at Baylor, and Medterra. And to give some background as to why Im even working with Medterra: I will tell you that before I joined them, started helping them, a couple other CBD companies actually had approached me and talked about working with me. In reality, you learn very quickly that a lot of whats out there is just trying to jump off a fad and make a quick buck. They dont care about the science or they dont care about what is reality. And so I did not do anything with them. And then when I was talking to the higher ups at Medterra, it became very apparent very quickly that they were very interested in the science, what the science had to say: How can we be not only scientifically accurate, but actually advance the science, etc?

So this fit my wheelhouse. Im just a pure academic researcher, an immunologist by trade. So that led to numerous different model systems experimenting going on in the lab where we were really looking at science. It was pretty evident from us and from other labs that CBD has this reasonably genuine anti-inflammatory role and can reduce a lot of the signaling molecules commonly associated with inflammation. And so a lot of what we were seeing in the lab and in, lets call them preliminary studies, we were seeing a reduction in inflammatory signals commonly associated with several actual diseases such as arthritis. So, you know, obviously thered be a lot of interest and movement to say, well, what about the people? Well, you cant just experiment on people. We can do that, but youre talking about clinical trials, FDA, IRB, a pretty big undertaking.

And I happened to have a perfect combination of events, where I happen to have a veterinary colleague at Sunset Animal Hospital, which weve worked with before, who had already expressed interest in CBD, and if it might be effective for dogs. And right around this time, Medterra was entertaining a couple of large pet companies, brands. These were people in the pet space who were very interested in what the science had to say about CBD in the pet space. So, we started putting things together, and Medterra said, If youve already got the connections, can we go ahead and actually fund an actual study in dogs to see if theres any benefit here?

So I worked with the vets, and we put a plan together. Heres what theyre comfortable with doing, heres what it would cost, and next thing you know, weve got a small canine placebo, double blind, clinical trial sort of going. So the study came about as a result of this desire on all sides to put the science first, and see whats actually here, and if theres any weight to these claims.

Alyson Martin, Cannabis Wire: What were the biggest surprises that emerged from this research?

Matthew Halpert, lead researcher: I honestly was surprised at how well it worked, if Im being just blunt. Its one thing to see something in a petri dish in a lab. I mean, its not invalid, but its just one small step at the beginning of a process. To suddenly go into a study, though, like this, where I have no control? I took off the labels and replaced them with A, B, C, or D. And I gave them to the vet. And I said, you dont know what each bottle has. The owners dont know. And were going to do this pretty extensive scoring system from the vet, from the owners. Were going to look at the blood. Were going to look at things like liver, kidney function. The reality is: I have no control here. I dont know what to expect. And I warned Medterra, just so you know, its a one-month study. I dont know what the data are going to be.

These dogs have pre-diagnosed, chronic arthritis. This is an ongoing condition that has drastically affected their lives, their ability to move, and jump, and things like that. So, I said, Im not sure if were going to see anything in a month. And then within one month, which clinically speaking, is very, very short, almost every dog in the appropriate CBD groups saw some sort of benefit. It wasnt a minor benefit. Some of these scores, symptoms were reduced by as much as 50 percent in just one month. That to me, being in the science space, things dont usually jump that large that quickly. And then the dogs in the placebo group, and the low-dose CBD group, they basically saw nothing. No improvement.

And they didnt know they were in the placebo group, right? This tells me, by and large, they werent trying to just give fake answers. They gave genuine answers and they said, no, whatever you gave us did not help my dog. And then youve got 10 dogs in the better groups and theyre all like, yeah, this is fabulous. I got a bunch of notes that I cant publish because theyre not scientific. Oh, my God, Im so happy. Oh, is the first time he jumped up on the couch in two years. Im just likeIm a little bit floored. Oh my gosh. I mean, its just that that actually surprised me more than anything, that it had actually worked that well that quickly.

Alyson Martin, Cannabis Wire: Is there any follow-up CBD research planned? The research said that This study supports the safety and therapeutic potential of hemp-derived CBD for relieving arthritic pain and suggests follow-up investigation.

Matthew Halpert, lead researcher: The short answer is yes, this is not the end. I can confidently say that. Without [Medterra CEO] Jay Hartenbach on the line, I dont know what he or Medterra would permit me to say at this time. All I can tell you is that weve talked to the veterinary group about expanding the dog studies, taking it to the next step. That is an active thing, in process, but I dont want to pre-scoop ourselves on that.

(Cannabis Wire reached out to Hartenbach to ask the same question, and Hartenbach said: We are now studying the combination of CBD with other ingredients to improve efficacy and the ability of CBD to penetrate the skin via different delivery methods. All of this work will continue to be completed with Dr. Halperts team at the Baylor College of Medicine. This has been a great partnership for us and we look forward to continuing it in the years to come.)

Alyson Martin, Cannabis Wire: How would you characterize interest from the private sector on the results of this research?

Matthew Halpert, lead researcher: In the vet and human space, when it comes to arthritis and osteoarthritis, theres almost no treatment for it, period. Its just a real tough disease. We dont exactly know the root cause of this, its fairly debilitating, it leads to all kinds of joint issues.

Yes, theres interest. Of course, theres the concern, the wariness if theres THC in it, or if people dont understand the difference.

A lot of people in the private space also dont know what theyre talking about. So they think that it makes no sense or has no backing. So that unfortunately slows a lot of the process down, because you end up with a lot of poorly regulated, inaccurate claims and products out there which sort of muddy the waters. As slow as the FDA is, as much as I feel like Im banging my head against the wall in working with them, theres a reason they exist. If theyre not going to regulate this product space, were unfortunately going to have to deal with a lot of muck out there until things get cleaned up.

So, theres interest, but I feel when I talk to people, people dont know where to go or who to trust.

Alyson Martin, Cannabis Wire: Cannabis Wire recently published a piece about cannabis industry involvement in and funding of research. Can you characterize the conversations you had internally and externally about the involvement of Medterra in this research? What percentage of this research did Medterra fund?

Matthew Halpert, lead researcher: This was Medterras pet CBD product. From Baylors perspective, Im not allowed to rah rah and endorse a product from any company.

Medterra provided the product and Medterra provided 90% of the funding that went into this study. A little was covered by some other stuff at Baylor.

I was very clear with Medterra up front: they dont control this. Neither of us. They dont control the data. The rule is the data are what they are. You may like them. You may not. But were not going to get this position where were going to hide data or were going to manipulate data, risk our integrity and whatever. And Baylor is on top of that, because Baylor doesnt want to get stuck in some quagmire where they look like they can be bought off.

I would say this shouldnt be solely Medterra. I do think the cannabis community should fund actual, real research and let the data drive the direction.

And if real research out of real institutions published in real journals vetted by real scientists who are not being bought off, says, hey, look, repeated studies have shown that cannabis could be a very effective quick treatment for ulcerative colitis or osteoarthritis, then great. I think that is something we need to be pursuing.

If you dont have studies out there, and Im talking all the way through human level clinical trials, it ends up fading into the background and just becomes another supplement in the supplement aisle at CVS. So the question is: what does the cannabis industry really hope for here? Do they want this to just become a kind of background thing that people are like, eh, its just kind of anecdotal? Or, do they want it to be: this has now been tested on 10,000 different people and clearly it has cured cancer, or whatever it is. I do think thats the direction the industry should go.

Alyson Martin, Cannabis Wire: What does it mean that youre a paid scientific adviser for Medterra? Do you have to balance any priorities?

Matthew Halpert, lead researcher: Ive been working with Medterra now for about a year and a half. And so we got working on some smaller experiments at Baylor, and this led to a sponsored research agreement with Baylor. So Medterra and Baylor sort of tied the knot. And Medterra said, look, were going to send you product and money and we want you to do the research and just give us the data. And we want that because we want to lead science.

Medterra asked if I could be one of their advisors to help make sure theyre not doing stuff thats scientifically stupid. And I checked with Baylor and they said its fine, you can do that. Its just a requirement that I disclose that.

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Baylor University Study Finds Therapeutic Potential in CBD for Arthritic Dogs - Cannabis Wire

The new market report on Arthritis Therapeutics is a comprehensive study providing analysis on factors trend and drivers contributing to growth of the Arthritis Therapeutics. The report is prepared with reference to historic data .Estimation of contribution of segment is expressed in terms of volume and revenue for the forecast period. Market analysis and future prospect is segmented in various sections. Each sections focus on distinct features of the products that are anticipated to shape the market over the forecast period.

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Global Arthritis Therapeutics Market to Witness Stunted Growth amid global COVID-19 outbreak - The Cloud Tribune

Arthritis Ireland asks people in Louth to raise funds and support those with arthritis by undertaking 30km in 30 days

Arthritis Ireland is encouraging people in Louth to raise funds by running, jogging, walking or cycling 30km over the 30 days of June to support people living with arthritis.

The 30 in 30 challenge will help raise vital funds to enable the charity deliver services to people with arthritis.

Nearly one million people are living with the condition in Ireland, including 1,200 children. Many of those with arthritis have been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, for example, due to being immunosuppressed or aged over 70.

According to Arthritis Ireland chief executive, Grinne OLeary, Were working incredibly hard to meet the needs of people with arthritis at this challenging time. Our self-management classes and exercise programmes are now online, and were developing further initiatives to support people where theyre at. Our helpline and online fora have been valuable sources of trusted information for people.

Fundraising income at the charity has been significantly impacted by the pandemic, said OLeary. The extraordinary generosity of the public enables us deliver services for people with arthritis all over the country. Weve had to cancel or postpone our scheduled fundraising activity, so 30 in 30 is a safe, healthy and fun way to support our work at this challenging time.

Participants can choose to walk, run or cycle 30km in 30 days this June. You can choose to do 1km a day, break it into bigger chunks, or take on the full 30km in one go.

This is an entirely flexible challenge that will suit people of all fitness levels. Take part in your own time, anywhere across the country, near your home or in your local park. Our only ask is to make sure to do it safely and in line with the latest government advice, added OLeary.

Kaitlin Fenelon from Laois is one of those taking part in 30 in 30. Kaitlin says that after she was diagnosed with arthritis, she was very confused.

I didnt know how to handle my pain, and it had a huge impact on my mental health, she said. I attended a self-management course organised by Arthritis Ireland and cant describe how much it helped me. I want to fundraise so that they have the resources to organise more courses and help more people that are as confused as I was.

To find out more and to register for 30 in 30 visit the Arthritis Ireland website atwww.arthritisireland.ie.

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Arthritis Ireland asks people in Louth to raise funds to service people with the disease - LMFM

With the outbreak of COVID-19 in worldwide and stipulated lockdown, the healthcare sector is witnessing an unprecedented slowdown as per EY-FICCI study titled, COVID-19 impact assessment for healthcare sector and key financial measures recommendations for the sector. The study is predicated on an assessment of healthcare players within the country to assess the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and provides recommendations on the fiscal stimulus measures it needs within the coming months.

Arthritis is a problem associated with joints, in which a person suffers from red, hot, swollen and functionally impaired joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused due to loss of tissue lining. A new research report by Persistence Market Research focuses on the various treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis and presents a forecast for this market for next few years.

The report is titledRheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Market: Global Industry Analysis 2012 2016 and Forecast 2017 2025and reveals the findings of this exhaustive research program. According to the report insights, the globalrheumatoid arthritis marketheld a market value of over US$ 23,900 Mn in 2017, which is expected to reach a valuation in excess of US$ 37,800 Mn by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of 5.9%.

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The growth of the rheumatoid arthritis market is driven by macro-economic factors like the increase in aging population of many countries, which subsequently increases the number of patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. The prevalence of this disease is also seen to be high in women; one in every 12 women develops rheumatoid arthritis during her lifetime.

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Middle East and Africa is also expected to show huge scope for development in the global market. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability in the Middle East and Africa. A study reveals that prevalence of the disease is reported to be at 0.3% in Egypt and 0.4% in Lesotho. Considering the poor yet fastest growing economy of Africa, generic players have massive scope for growth in the region.

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This research report comprises a detailed presentation of all the companies leading in the global market. These companies are considered to hold a higher customer base than any other companies in the industry. The drugs manufactured by these companies are widely used in the global market and there are several other products in the pipeline. Some of these companies mentioned in the report are Sanofi SA, Pfizer Inc., Hoffman-La Roche AG, Johnson & Johnson, AbbVie Inc., Eli Lilly & Company, Amgen Inc. and Sobi Inc.

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COVID-19 Impact on Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Market Marked US$ 30000 Mn in forecast Years 2025 - Cole of Duty

Eli Harold, Colin Kaepernick, and Eric Reid of the San Francisco 49ers kneel in protest during the anthem in October, 2016 in New York. (Michael Zagaris / San Francisco 49ers / Getty)

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The question often asked is What happened? What happened to the kneeling protests against racist police violence that were staged during the national anthem by Colin Kaepernick and so many others? What happened to black athletes centering themselves as critical voices of dissent? Were they stifled by Trump? Have they been silenced by the fear that they could be Kaepernicked and denied a right to make a living?Ad Policy

Everyone has theories on the state of athletic political consciousness, but my answer has always been the same: This country is a pressure cooker of racist police violence, and it would just take one incident, probably caught on tape, to see athletes speaking out once again. In other words, the question of whether athletes would make themselves heard would be determined by the police. If they continued with their racist, violent ways, there would be a reaction.

We are seeing one right now following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Its not taking a knee, in the time of a pandemic that has canceled games, but silence for many is clearly not an option. Athletes have taken to social media to express their rage, and even some of the typical bigoted scolds on the sports media landscape have remained mum, at least as of this writing. This eruption of athletic anger matters, because these athletes have massive followings of white fans who will now have to reckon with Floyds murder. These athletes are puncturing the bubble that white people have the luxury of living in: a bubble in which they do not feel fear when they see a police officer. Athletes have a unique ability to reach those people, which is exactly why, since the days of Jack Johnson over a century ago, their platform has been policed so mercilessly.

One example is former NBA player Stephen Jackson. Captain Jack knew Floyd and bore a striking resemblance to the manhe and Floyd called each other twin. Jackson spoke out in a series of posts, in one saying, Either you side with whats right or you condone whats wrong you cant love me and not love my people.

Many others, including Kaepernick and LeBron James, shared a widely circulated photo of (now fired) Officer Derek Chauvin on one knee, in the process of killing George Floyd, counterposed with Kaepernick peacefully protesting, also of course on one knee. James also posted a story on Instagram about Floyds murder with the caption, Were hunted.

Hall of Fame WNBA player Lisa Leslie weighed in, tweeting,

If anybody that follows me is not outraged about these senseless attacks on BLACK MEN, please stop following me! If your spirit is not disturbed, please stop following me! This inflicted Pain but it will never inflict FEAR sorry, we[]re not made like that!Current Issue

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Also of note (its only of note because so few white athletes have spoken out as part of the #BlackLivesMatter struggle), J.J. Watt of the Houston Texans said in a press conference, Ive seen the video, and I think its disgusting. I think that theres no explanation. I mean, to me, it doesnt make any sense. I just dont see how a man in handcuffs on the ground, who is clearly detained and clearly saying, in distress I dont understand how that situation cant be remedied in a way that doesnt end in his death. I think that it needs to be addressed. Strongly, obviously.

Then there is Tyrone Tai Carter, a retired NFL player and Super Bowl champion who was at the front lines of the Minneapolis protests/police riot. As professor Louis Moore pointed out to me, this is a major break from the role black athletes have played in the past, when they were used to quiet down protests. Instead, there was Tai Carter saying, No justice, no peace.

Its unknown whether their anguish will break through the white bubble. We are living in highly polarized times. Income inequality has never been worse, and the powers that bemost specifically, a certain (allegedly) billionaire presidenthave ruthlessly used racism to keep people divided while the rich loot this country and continue the greatest transfer of wealth the world has ever seen without a coup or revolution. Its not just the white folks who bring automatic weapons to state capitol buildings while police yawn. Its the white people who turn a blind eye and confuse being a non-racist with being an anti-racist. I agree with the argument that it is the responsibility of white people to educate and confront other white people on their bigotry. But if athletes can move the needle a fraction toward anti-racism, that is critical work, and it should be utilized and treasured.

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The Critical Role of Athletes in Fighting White Blindness - The Nation

Pepper spray as a weapon: Why police use the 'riot-control agent' at protests

Pepper spray has been used a lot recently due to the protests involving the death of George Floyd. So what is it and is it deadly?

USA TODAY

As crowds gather across the country to protest the death of George Floyd, authorities meet them with tear gas and pepper spray in attempt to prevent moreviolence.

While some protests have ended peacefully, others in cities like Pittsburgh, Minneapolis and St. Louis have beenconfronted with a line of police in riot gearfiring tear gas and projectiles into crowds protesting the death of Floyd, an unarmed black man who died in police custody in Minneapolis.

In some incidents, members of the news media appeared to betargeted, by police and protesters alike. On Saturday night,Branden Hunter, a reporter for the Detroit Free Press, went to an emergency room in Detroit after police administered tear gas during a protest.

It's not the first time these "riot agents"were used by authorities to disperse crowds of protesters and it certainly wont bethe last. If youre planning to join one of these protests, heres what you need to know to protect yourself against tear gas and pepper spray.

Viral photos:A photo page of striking moments from the weeks protests.

Pepper spray is a lachrymatory agent, which means it stimulates the eyes to produce tears.

The main active ingredient in pepper spray is an oil known as oleoresin capsicum, the same agent that provides heat in chili peppers, according to Dr. Robert Glatter, an emergency physician in New York City.

Pepper spray is typically dispersed into the air as an aerosol or as small particles in a liquid spray, according tothe National Capital Poison Center. Pepper sprays and mists can travel 8 to 12 feet, saidSabre, a popular brand of pepper spray. Gel sprays can travel 20% farther.

The chemical irritant can cause a feeling of bubbling or boiling in your eyes, temporary blindness and eye pain. The effects can last 30 to 45 minutes. Glatter said symptoms also may includeburning in the throat, wheezing, dry cough, gagging and difficulty speaking.

People who inhale pepper spray may develop a sudden elevation of blood pressure, which can lead to a stroke or heart attack, he said. Those with asthma also maybe at higher risk for complications.

Skin exposure can cause pain, redness, swelling and itching, according to the National Capital Poison Center.

Dr. Kelly Johnson-Arbor, medical director at National Capital Poison Center, said that even though pepper spray is technically a natural agent, it can still cause great harm, especially to those with underlying conditions.

"Some people interpret natural as safe, and thats definitely not true," she said.

Johnson-Arbor urgedprotesters who experience the effects of pepper spray for more than an hour to seek medical care.

Glatter saidthe most important thing to remember is not to rub your eyes if you get sprayed because it will spread the compound deeper into the eye.

Immediately blinking allows tears to help flush away some of the oils contained in the pepper spray. He recommendedusing baby shampoo or diluted dish-washing soap with water to remove them.

While many people are seen on television pouring milk on their face after being pepper-sprayed during protests, Glatter said that only helps reduce the burning sensation but doesn't remove any of the oil.

Johnson-Arbor said there is no scientific evidence to prove baby shampoo works against pepper spray. A 2018 study found no difference between baby shampoo or plain water.

"Water overall is the best treatment that people can use," she said.

But a simple8-ouncebottle of water won't do.Johnson-Arbor advised people beprepared with lots of water if they expect authorities to disperse riot agents during a protest.

Tear gas isnt technically a gas, Glatter said. Its a powder that is heated and mixed with a liquid or solvent and released from canisters as an aerosol.

There are different types of tear gas. The two commonly used by law enforcement are 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile (CS) and chloroacetophenone (CN).

Glattersaid tear gas should be considered a nerve agent in that it doesnt just irritate cells, but it also activates specific pain receptors leading to intense and burning pain on all affected areas. It can cause pain and burning in the eyes, mucous membranes, throat, lungs and skin.

Along with pain and tear production, tear gas also causes exaggerated muscle cramping in the eye and sensitivity to light that leads to eye closure, Glatter said.

Tear gas can affect every part of the body. People can experience burning in the nose, nasal mucosal swellingand a running nose. Other effects include difficulty swallowing, drooling and severe burning inside the mouth and on the tongue.

People with asthma or chronic inflammatory lung disease (COPD) are most at risk for severe complications as a result of tear gas. Glatter said tear gas can cause an asthma attack or dangerous swelling in the upper airway that could lead to asphyxiation and even death.

"If you dont experience such devastating airway or respiratory effects, your skin feels like its on fire, he said.

Actual burns and blisters could form as a result. Ingestion of tear gas through the mouth can also lead to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

You get it not a pretty picture, Glatter said.

Johnson-Arbor strongly urges people not to pick up tear gas canisters. She hasseen reports ofprotesters throwing them back at authorities, a practice that canbe dangerous.

Tear gas canisters can detonate, exposing protesters to propellants, solvents and explosives. Johnson-Arbor noted reports of brain injuries in previous years as a result of exploding tear gas canisters.

If the canisters are about to explode, they can also be very hot and cause burn injuries if picked up.

"If a canister lands nearby, then get out of the way," she said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Preventionrecommends immediately leavingthe area and getting tofresh air quickly if exposed to tear gasor similarriot control agents.

If the tear gas was released outdoors, the agency advisesseekingthe highest ground possible as the dense vapor cloud travelsclose to the ground. If exposed indoors, people should leave the building as soon as possible.

The CDC says people should quickly take off any clothing that may have tear gas on it. If clothing needs to be pulled over the head, like a shirt or sweater, Glatter said it must be cut off to limitexposure to the eyes or mouth.

People should place all removed clothes in a plastic bag and wash any tear gas from skin as quickly as possible with soap and water. They should not use soap for the eyes. For burning eyes or blurred vision, the CDC recommends risingeyes with plain water for 10 to 15 minutes.

Glatter said contact lenses should be removed with clean gloves and glasses should be washed with soap and water. Glasses can be used again, but the CDC advises against reusing the contacts, even if theyre not disposable.

While theres no approved antidote for tear gas, Glatter said theres a few home remedies that could help ease the effects after exposure. He said some people use lemon juice or antacids such as Maalox water.

That said, water remains the most available and effective solvent for irrigation in the setting of any type of ocular burn, he said.

Experts saylow level agents such as pepper spray and tear gas dont usually result in permanent or long-lasting health effects, but exposure to higher concentrations can be more harmful.

Glatter said significant damage to the corneal epithelium, the outermost layer of the cornea, could lead to visual impairment. Other complications include laryngospasm, a spasm of the vocal cords, or pulmonary edema, fluid in the lungs, in people with a history of lung disease.

Cases of prolonged exposure could result in first- and second-degree burns and blistering. The CDC recommendedtreating with standard burn management techniques including use of medicated bandages.

Glatter said children as well as those with chronic lung disease, hypersensitivity syndromes and older people with heart and kidney disease are more at risk for severe outcomes of pepper spray or tear gas.

Johnson-Arbor urgedprotesters to be prepared if they anticipate authorities to disperse tear gas or use pepper spray.

They should dress in long sleeves and pants so the agents can't come in contact with skin. They should not wear contact lenses to protests, becausetear gas or pepper sprayparticles can get stuck between the eye and lens and cause damage.

She suggested protesters wear some protective gear such as goggles. While many protesters are seen with cloth masks to protect themselves from the coronavirus, Johnson-Arbor said they won't do much against tear gas or pepper spray.

While they provide some protection, cloth masks have varying degrees of filtration, aren't tight-fittingand not medical grade. There are no studies of how pepper spray or tear gas penetrates cloth masks, and most masks are open on either side.

"Overall, the masks may provide some protection but it won't be enough to avoid exposure overall," Johnson-Arbor said.

Lastly, she advisedpeople to arm themselves with enough waterto thoroughly irrigate their eyes if exposed to pepper spray or tear gas.

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Protesters should know how to protect themselves from tear gas, pepper spray - USA TODAY

How can doctors diagnose and treat 425 million worldwide diabetes patients? That number keeps going up and up, projected to reach 700 million by 2045. There are millions more with undiagnosed prediabetes. Add more millions with undiagnosed hypertension. All these people are destined to lives defined by cardiovascular problems and complications that include debilitating conditions like blindness. Diabetes is swamping health care systems worldwide. Let us be clear: whatever we have been doing to fight the problem, it is not working.

But now, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is offering new possibilities. Using new technologies, data science, vast quantities of medical images, and computer algorithms, it is possible to fight diseases differently. The medical model of a patient and a doctor is outdated. We need to put AI on our health care team and use analytical methods to predict problems before they occur and to help doctors and patients make better decisions.

Computer-assisted retinal analysis (CARA) is one such technology. Developed by DIAGNOS, a Montreal-based company, CARA uses retina scans to detect early warning signs of big health problems. And CARA can do it on a scale that will make a big difference in fighting the diabetes epidemics.

The retina, the back part of the eye, is the only area of the body where doctors can easily see the condition of arteries and veins without invasive procedures. Early detection of atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries) in the retinas of diabetes patients signals a warning that the same problem is occurring in coronary arteries. This is why the retina is called, the window to the heart.

Prevention is always better than cure. But this is easier said than done in many parts of the world where highly trained retinal specialists are in short supply. We are more fortunate in North America, but retinal checkups are mainly the purview of ophthalmologists focused on your eyes, not your cardiovascular system.

Type 2 diabetes has become a worldwide epidemic and an expensive problem for every health care system. Type 2 diabetes is not just a singular disease. Rather, by triggering atherosclerosis, it decreases blood supply to many parts of the body with catastrophic results. For example, longstanding diabetes increases the risk of blindness, heart attack, and kidney failure, which may require renal dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Doctors can only treat so many patients. So this problem is an example of where we can leverage technology to screen of millions of people. CARA can scan an eye in two seconds. Furthermore, it can scan hundreds of patients for hours without getting tired or making errors. We need to use AI to detect retina changes and prevent diabetes averting countless cases of blindness and other problems, improving lives, and saving dollars.

Andre Larente, president of DIAGNOS, recently remarked, CARA can now look at a patients retina, discover the presence of hypertension and predict a chance of stroke in 12 to 24 months. Given that CARA can do this across very large populations of patients, at low cost, its easy to see the appeal of this technology from a health care and economic perspective, not to mention the incentive to individual patients to reduce their risk profile.

Theres no doubt that the capacities of artificial intelligence are changing the way we can fight illness, and companies like DIAGNOS are important partners in medical practice. The key is in scaling up. CARA has accumulated a vast database of retinal photos of patients worldwide. This data can be used for predictive modeling. So the next step will be in getting this data into the hands of those who can take steps to stop the progression of illness, change conditions leading to disease, and prevent these avoidable health problems in the first place.

Dr. W. Gifford-Jones, aka Ken Walker, is a graduate of the University of Toronto and Harvard Medical School. You can reach him online at his website, docgiff.com, or via email at info@ docgiff.com.

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The Doctor Game: Artificial intelligence to help avert blindness - The Westerly Sun

As protests over the death of George Floyd have flared in cities across the US, police responded with batons, tear gas, and rubber bullets, videos show.

In many cases, it appears their targets weren't necessarily people looting and causing destruction, but rather anyone who was there, including peaceful protesters, kids, and journalists.

Linda Tirado, a journalist in Minnesota got shot with a rubber bullet to the eye, and later reported she permanently lost sight in it.

While rubber bullets are intended to be a relatively harmless crowd-control technique, they can be extremely harmful, leading to everything from fractures to death, Dr. Jose Torradas, a spokesperson for the American College of Emergency Physicians, told Insider. But there are ways to protect yourself.

Rubber bullets are what they sound like, though sometimes they're not completely made of rubber and instead are made of another material like steel and coated in rubber, Torradas said. Law enforcement professionals use them to disperse crowds while, in theory, minimizing harm.

"They're used because of their composition and weight and how they're shaped," which allows them to lose velocity quickly, he said. That way, they shouldn't break the skin if they're fired at a far enough distance, as intended.

Rubber bullets are also meant to be fired at people's lower extremities like the thigh where they are less likely to do damage, thanks to the protective muscle and fat and distance from the face, which is most vulnerable to serious injury, Torradas said.

If used like this, rubber bullets shouldn't break the skin or leave much more than a bruise, like you're being hit with a paintball, he said.

But there's "a fine line" between a shot that leaves a minor welt and one that can be dangerous, even deadly, Torradas said. It depends on how close the victim is, how much skin is exposed, and where on the body it lands.

"If you're just firing off at close range, not really aiming for the lower limbs, you're asking for trouble," he said.

Serious injuries can include bone fractures, deep skin lacerations that can lead to serious infections, blindness, nerve damage, and even organ injury that leads to death.

A 2017 review of past research in BMJ Open looked at 1,984 people who had injuries from "kinetic impact projectiles," which includes rubber bullets. It found that 53 of them died and 300 suffered permanent disability. Of those who survived, 71% had severe injuries.

"Given their inherent inaccuracy, potential for misuse, and associated health consequences of severe injury, disability and death, KIPs do not appear to be appropriate weapons for use in crowd-control settings," the authors wrote. "There is an urgent need to establish international guidelines on the use of crowd-control weapons to prevent unnecessary injuries and deaths."

Their conclusions echo that of a 2016 study reviewing 28 records of patients who sought orthopedic treatment for rubber bullet injuries including fractures, nerve and tendon damage, and bullets lodged into deep tissue. The authors concluded that "these weapons are lethal and should hence be reclassified."

FILE - In this May 29, 2020, file photo, demonstrators march in Oakland, Calif. protesting the death of George Floyd, a handcuffed black man in police custody in Minneapolis. The message from protesters around the United States is that George Floyd is the latest addition to a grim roster of African Americans to be killed by police or white civilians. (AP Photo/Noah Berger, File) Associated Press

One of the best way protesters can avoid serious injury from rubber bullets is to keep as far away from those firing as possible and wear thick clothing, like denim or even leather, that doesn't leave much skin exposed.

You can even layer clothes, wear protective pads made for athletes, and men would benefit from wearing an athletic cup, Torradas said.

Because the face, and specifically the eyes, are the most vulnerable to permanent injury, it's smart to wear goggles made with "ballistic grade glassware." While ski goggles might suffice, Torradas said, regular glasses will not: In fact, they'll shatter if they're hit and potentially lead to even more injuries.

If you do get struck by a bullet that deeply penetrates your skin or that you have any suspicion may have caused a fracture or left particles embedded, seek emergency care immediately. The longer you delay, the worse the outcome, Torradas said.

If the injury is a minor abrasion, generously clean it with soap and water or, even better, rubbing alcohol or Betadine. Then use a clean towel to remove any dirt, apply a layer of an antibiotic ointment like Neosporin, and wrap it in gauze, Torradas said.

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Rubber bullets can cause blindness, fractures, and organ injury. Here's what to do if you get hit. - Insider - INSIDER

Prevent Blindness to host 9th annual Focus on Eye Health National Summit on July 15 as virtual event.

CHICAGO (PRWEB) June 03, 2020

Prevent Blindness, the nations oldest volunteer eye health and safety organization, will host the 9th annual Prevent Blindness Focus on Eye Health National Summit, on July 15, 2020, from 12-3 p.m. ET (a virtual exhibit hall will be open from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. ET). The event will be held as an online virtual event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This years Summit will include a variety of presentations related to this years theme, "An Eye to the Future.

Participants are invited to view presentations from leaders in science, public health, and vision research. Attendees may also visit the virtual exhibit hall and booths of event sponsors, participate in Q&A with presenters, and gather in the event lounge to network with other participants. All are invited to follow and share on Twitter at #eyesummit.

Peter Holland, chief executive of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, will serve as the keynote speaker for the Summit. Holland will present on the recent World Report on Vision from the World Health Organization.

Additional presentations at the Focus on Eye Health National Summit will include:

U.S. Population and Vision Health in 2020 and Beyond

Future of Vision Treatment and Research

During the event, Prevent Blindness will formally present the 2020 Jenny Pomeroy Award for Excellence in Vision and Public Health to the Childrens Vision Rehabilitation Program (CVRP) at West Virginia University, who will also provide a presentation on their work. The Jenny Pomeroy Award for Excellence in Vision and Public Health recognizes an individual, team, or organization that has made significant contributions to the advancement of public health related to vision and eye health at the community, state, national, and/or international level. Additionally, the inaugural Rising Visionary Award will be presented to Araba Otoo, third-year optometry student, at The Ohio State University.

Horizon Therapeutics is serving as the Focus on Eye Health National Summit Platinum Sponsor. Current Gold sponsors include Alcon Vision, Center for Vision and Population Health at Prevent Blindness, the EyeSight Foundation of Alabama, Genentech, International Retinal Research Foundation, Lighthouse Guild, and the National Center for Children's Vision and Eye Health at Prevent Blindness.

Silver sponsors include Allergan, Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (AEVR), American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Society of Retina Specialists, Bausch + Lomb, BrightFocus Foundation, CooperVision, Lions Clubs International, Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, Research to Prevent Blindness, and Vision 2020 USA. Summit sponsorship opportunities are still available.

We know that this year has brought considerable challenges to patients and public health services, said Jeff Todd, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness. We encourage everyone to participate in this years Focus on Eye Health National Summit to continue to keep dialogue and education moving forward on important vision and eye health issues.

To register or for more information about the 2020 Prevent Blindness Focus on Eye Health National Summit and sponsorship opportunities, please visit https://preventblindness.org/events/focus-on-eye-health-national-summit-2020/ or call (800) 331-2020.

About Prevent BlindnessFounded in 1908, Prevent Blindness is the nation's leading volunteer eye health and safety organization dedicated to fighting blindness and saving sight. Focused on promoting a continuum of vision care, Prevent Blindness touches the lives of millions of people each year through public and professional education, advocacy, certified vision screening and training, community and patient service programs and research. These services are made possible through the generous support of the American public. Together with a network of affiliates, Prevent Blindness is committed to eliminating preventable blindness in America. For more information, or to make a contribution to the sight-saving fund, call (800) 331-2020. Or, visit us on the Web at preventblindness.org or facebook.com/preventblindness.

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Prevent Blindness to Host Ninth Annual Focus on Eye Health National Summit as an Online Virtual Event - PR Web

PALO ALTO, Calif., June 3, 2020 /PRNewswire/ --SightGlass Vision, Inc., a life sciences company focused on ending nearsightedness (myopia), today announced it has achieved Conformit Europene (CE) Markdeclaration on its first product the Company's novel eyeglasses designed to slow the progression of myopia in children.The CE Mark confirms that SightGlass Vision's Diffusion Optics Technology (DOT) spectacle lens products meet European Union (EU) regulatory standards, and allows the Company to commercialize its suite of DOT products across the EU, United Kingdom, and other European Economic Area countries.

The CE Mark declaration allowing European Marketing Authorization includes products containing anti-reflective and photochromic technologies, making the Company's DOT lenses the first product that has shown success in a multi-center, randomized, controlled clinical trial to include these options for myopia management.

"Our novel spectacle lenses designed to slow myopia progression in children have been hailed as a revolutionary innovation in the field of myopia management. The CE Mark allowing European Marketing Authorization for our suite of DOT products is an important leap forward for our Company, as we advance our mission to end myopia. We look forward to bringing to market a powerful and unique mechanism of action that we are confident will benefit children in the EU and other CE Mark geographies who live with myopia and are at risk from its vision-threatening complications," said Thomas W. Chalberg, Ph.D., Founder and Chief Executive Officer.

The CE Mark is a certification mark in Europe that signals conformity to patient and user safety and device performance standards in the region. It is considered an essential regulatory requirement for companies intending to sell medical products in the European Economic Area.

SightGlass Vision also received ISO 13485:2016 certification of its manufacturing process, facility, and quality management system in 2019. This certification demonstrates the Company's focus on quality and its ability to provide a portfolio of DOT spectacle lenses that consistently meet both customer and applicable regulatory requirements. In addition, SightGlass Vision's quality systems meet the new EU rules for medical device manufacturers, known as Medical Devices Regulation, which is scheduled to take effect on May 26, 2021.

About MyopiaNearsightedness or myopia is a condition that occurs when the light coming into an eye does not focus on the retina, but in front of it, making things look blurry. For most people, myopia is usually a minor inconvenience and is correctable. However, myopia increases the risk of serious eye conditions such as myopic maculopathy, retinal detachment, and glaucoma, making it one of the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness.

Myopia has seen a dramatic increase in prevalence over the past several decades. In the early 1970's, only 25 percent of Americans were nearsighted. By the early 2000's, that number had jumped to more than 40 percent. Today, the number of nearsighted people is at epidemic proportions globally. Myopia is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in parts of Asia. Most alarming is approximately half of all young adults in the U.S. and Europe are nearsighted double the number from when their grandparents were the same age. And in China, about 80 to 90 percent of teens and young adults are myopic, up from 10 to 20 percent just 65 years ago. It is estimated that almost half of the entire world's population, or five billion people, will be nearsighted by 2050. This increase is thought to relate to lifestyle changes, including less time outdoors and more eye-straining or near work-related activities such as reading and screen time. Early intervention is key to preventing high myopia from developing.

About SightGlass Vision, Inc.SightGlass Vision, Inc. is a life sciences company focused on ending nearsightedness (myopia). Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, SightGlass is developing innovative spectacle lenses to reduce the progression of myopia in children. Based on groundbreaking research from the University of Washington, SightGlass was founded in 2016 by Professors Jay and Maureen Neitz, and Dr. James Kuchenbecker, who are world-renowned vision researchers, and Dr. Thomas Chalberg, a serial entrepreneur in the biotechnology and medical device sectors. For more information, please visit http://www.sightglassvision.com.

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SightGlass Vision Achieves CE Mark Allowing European Marketing Authorization for Novel Eyeglasses That Slow Myopia Progression in Children - Monterey...

As protests continue in America and beyond, we explain what to do if police target you with tear gas and what you really should NOT do.

What is tear gas?

Tear gas, formally known as a lachrymator agent or lachrymator (from the Latin lacrima, meaning "tear"), sometimes more known as mace, is a chemical weapon that causes severe eye and respiratory pain, skin irritation, bleeding, and blindness. In the eye, it stimulates the nerves of the lacrimal gland to produce tears.

If it reaches your eyes, tear gas can cause excessive tearing, burning or blurred vision, according to the CDC.

The irritant can cause a runny nose, as well as a burning sensation inside the nose. It can also cause difficulty swallowing as well as chest tightness, coughing, shortness of breath and a feeling of choking.

For those who are exposed to riot control agents at close proximity or in a closed-in space, there can be more long-term effects including blindness, glaucoma or respiratory failure.

What you can do:

If it's deployed, keep a level head, and make sure that you remain calm.

After removing yourself from the immediate danger, you can apply a liquid antacid and water mixture that includes is a 50/50 mixture of water and either magnesium hydroxide and aluminium hydroxide.

If the first option is not available, it is recommended that you use refrigerated milk, however, this may not be accessible. However you MUST NOT pour the milk directly on to your eyes, this will cause the irritation to get worse and worse.

Another option is a mixture of water and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda).

Baking soda is cheaper and easier to transport and store than refrigerated milk and can be mixed with water wherever you are.

As soon as you're able, it's important to wash your skin with lots of soap and water. After you've provided immediate first aid for tear gas, you should remove any article of clothing that may have tear gas on it. It's better to cut it off rather than pull it off over your head so it does not make contact with your face. You should then place your exposed clothing in a plastic bag, seal the bag and then place that bag inside another plastic bag in order to prevent others from being exposed to the harmful chemical.

How to be prepared:

Doua, the Park Avenue Christian Church pastor, recommended a list of items to prepare yourself if tear gas is deployed to break up a peaceful protest or if an event becomes violent:

- Goggles: To prevent tear gas from getting into your eyes.

- Face shield: Another protection against tear gas for your eyes, nose, mouth, skin and lungs.

- Comfortable footwear: Marches and protests involve a lot of walking, and you'll want to also be ready if you have to run.

- Bike helmets: To protect your head if objects are being thrown or someone hits you.

- An umbrella: A defence against rubber bullets.

- ID, health insurance and cash: If you need to go to the hospital, talk with police officers or have other incidental expenses.

How you can help the BLM movement:

George Floyd, a 46-year-old bouncer, was killed on Monday, May 25 by Derek Chauvin, a police officer, who pressed his knee into Mr Floyd's neck until he died while other police officers watched. Footage of the killing, taken by a bystander, showed Floyd lying face down and handcuffed, groaning for help and repeatedly saying, "please, I can't breathe," before becoming motionless.

This death and constant racism towards the black community has very rightly so angered many, many people.

We know that many of you will want to help, but what if you aren't in America and can't partake in the protest? Here is what you can do to help this movement:

Sign this "Justice for George Floyd" petition, here.

Support black creators and business owners.

Donate to the black lives matter fund, here.

Remember, we are all in this together

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What To Do If You Are Exposed To Tear Gas - Healthcare Global - Healthcare News, Magazine and Website

As I wrote in todays open, in order to end racism and push for a more just and equal society, white people and non-black people of colour have to pull up. We can begin by acknowledging our mistakes and understanding that weve been shaped by institutionalised and systemic racism. And that while its certainly humiliating to admit that we can and most definitely have been racist in the past, and complacent about addressing it, that is nothing compared to what the consequences of our complacency which is that Black and Indigenous peoples lives have been lost and their opportunities taken away for GENERATIONS, literally.

Blake Lively has acknowledged this on her most recent Instagram post. There are five slides:

Were ashamed that in the past weve allowed ourselves to be uninformed by how deeply rooted systemic racism is.

We talk about our bias and our own mistakes. We look back and see so many mistakes which has led us to deeply examine who we are and what we want to become.

Youll recall, back when Blake was still running her Preserve lifestyle website, she once published a piece about the Allure of Antebellum.That was 2014. Critics of the piece (myself included) called it out for romanticising slavery. When you combine the word preserve and then allure of antebellum, its not a stretch to connect preservation of the status quo with a time before abolition. Also, she and Ryan Reynolds were married on a plantation.My read of Blakes post is that she is reflecting back on that essay and telling us that she has had to confront the grossness of all of that and learned that she had to do better, be better.

Blake, as you can imagine, presents a certain image and allure of her own, especially to white people, white women. And she is modelling for them that she has had to evolve, using her platform and taking this message right to the Amy Coopers of the world. Shes also made a donation of $200K to the NAACP. And while some may not be inclined to be generous about her generosity and self-examination (one way to improve her post would have been to straight up name her shame), its still better than silence. The fact that she says shes willing to have these conversations is only going to help.

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Blake Lively acknowledges that she's allowed herself to be uninformed about systemic racism in new Instagram p - LaineyGossip