(NewsUSA) - Child care remains a top priority—and a significant financial investment—for many families. Fortunately, several financial assistance programs are available around the country to reduce the burden of child care tuition for parents while ensuring children have access to a high-quality early learning environment. These programs, available through military, state, federal, employer, and other channels provide essential support for families in need of affordable child care options.

1. Government Programs

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), available at both the state and federal levels, helps eligible families with child care costs. This program provides grants to states, which then administer their own child care assistance programs, offering child care tuition subsidies and other financial support based on income and family size. This isn’t limited to just early childhood but can also apply to school-aged children in before- and after-school programs. Since all state laws differ, these processes can vary by state, county, and/or community. Parents should research subsidies available in their city, county and state to learn more about eligibility requirements. Some providers, like KinderCare, or their school-age program Champions, have subsidy specialists that can help families navigate this process.

The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit helps working families offset child care costs through a federal tax credit. Eligible families can claim a percentage of their child care expenses based on income and spending. Families should consult a tax professional to learn more about claiming this credit and determine their eligibility.

The Department of Defense offers subsidies to reduce child care costs for military families whose children attend accredited child care centers. Military families can visit the military child care website or contact their local family support center for more information about eligibility and application procedures. Some providers, like KinderCare, work with national partners such as Child Care Aware of America (CCAoA) to make this process easy for families so they can find support when they need it most and ensure continuity of care for their children as they move around the country.

Additionally, free public prekindergarten programs, funded by state or local governments, focus on preparing children for kindergarten by promoting literacy, math, and socialization skills in an early childhood setting, either in local schools or in community-based child care centers. Parents can contact their local school district or early childhood education agency for enrollment details and eligibility requirements. Some community providers, like KinderCare act as a host location for these programs.

2. Employer and School-Sponsored Benefits

Increasingly, employers are working with child care providers like KinderCare to incorporate child care benefits, such as on-site care, tuition discounts, backup care days and priority access to local child care centers, into their compensation packages, as reliable child care is essential for effective job performance. According to recent data, employer-subsidized child care remains a top desired benefit for parents returning to the office. Parents should check with their employer’s HR department to find out if they offer child care benefits and inquire about the process to utilize them. 

3. Local and Provider-Specific Programs

Some child care providers offer special discounts, including refer-a-friend programs, where parents can earn savings or bonuses by referring others to the provider.

Additionally, many centers offer sibling discounts, providing a reduced rate for families enrolling multiple children. These discounts can help reduce overall child care costs. Families should inquire with their providers about available options.

How to Apply and Get More Information

Families interested in child care assistance should research available programs in their area, review eligibility requirements, and gather necessary documentation, such as income verification or proof of employment. Local child care resources and referral agencies can offer valuable guidance in navigating these programs, as can child care providers.

No matter the location, every family should have access to excellent care for their children. Quality should not be compromised by cost. Parents are encouraged to do their own research and reach out for help to see what options they may have for child care tuition support.

(NewsUSA) - Troy Ita’s life was turned upside down by diabetes. Thankfully, he doesn’t have to compromise lifestyle or family time with the help of groundbreaking technology.

Family is at the center of Troy’s life. Every year he attends his annual family reunion, a long weekend filled with games, cooking and campfire singing. Last year was the 47^th edition and they kicked off with an auction of Auntie’s famous huckleberry raspberry jam, attended by 173 people spanning 6 generations.

It was on the way to one of these gatherings 20 years ago that Troy first noticed that he had to use the bathroom excessively. He wasn’t aware this was a symptom of diabetes. After going to the doctors, Troy was told his blood glucose levels were dangerously high and he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

He struggled to accept his new diagnosis and what it meant for him as someone who was constantly on the move, both for work and when pursuing his passions in music and as a dog rescuer. “I spent a lot of time not really dealing with my diabetes, until I met the right endocrinologist,” Troy reflects, “He’s the one that really saved my life. He’s the one that turned me around.”

Like many people living with diabetes, Troy experimented with a range of traditional, short-term continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) but found they weren’t the right fit for him and sometimes added to the burden of managing his diabetes. “My biggest issue was that they fell off constantly. I’m a big guy at 6 foot 5, so I would knock it off getting into the car! These things are expensive, and I was frustrated at having to replace my CGM whenever it fell off or failed early.”

Troy was introduced to an Eversense CGM in 2018 by his endocrinologist after struggling to find a technology that would help him get his diabetes under control.

Eversense CGM systems are the only long-term CGMs available. Whereas traditional CGMs last just 10-14 days, Troy currently uses the Eversense 365, which lasts an entire year.

Eversense’s tiny sensor rests comfortably under the skin and the removable transmitter which sits on the arm can be taken off and put back on without wasting a CGM*. This unique design gives users like Troy unmatched flexibility in their day-to-day lives.

Troy says the comfort of being able to take off his transmitter to cleanse the skin underneath is a big relief because previously he felt irritations and itchiness, potentially caused by using traditional CGMs. The Eversense transmitter sticks to his arm via a gentle, daily-use, double-sided silicone-based adhesive. Troy benefits from the adhesive which is gentle on the skin and holds the smart transmitter firmly in place.

Being able to apply a fresh adhesive daily allows Troy to clean his skin and take a shower, without something attached to his skin, meaning he can manage his diabetes without a lingering itch.

This flexibility also means Troy doesn’t have to worry about having his sensor knocked off, particularly when he’s working hard to get dogs ready for adoption. “I had a hard time with the dogs before, as they jump around a lot and would often knock off my sensor. Now, I can take the transmitter off when I’m near the bigger dogs and I’m good to go,” Troy says.

Troy’s family can also rest easy knowing he’s safe while pursuing his passion. “It puts my mind at rest knowing he won’t be left stranded needing a replacement CGM when he’s away from home,” his wife commented.

In addition to his family support network, Troy says finding support within his community was another important step in his journey to managing his diabetes. “You’re not on an island by yourself, and that makes such a huge difference”, he says, “it’s good to know other people are experiencing the same things.” He urges anyone newly diagnosed not to be afraid to seek out a support community.

Eversense has given Troy control over his diabetes management, allowing him to live life uninterrupted and enjoy his family reunions to the fullest. If you would like to learn more about Eversense, visit EversenseDiabetes.com/get-started-today.

Please note for important safety information, see https://www.eversensediabetes.com/safety-info

Troy Ita is an Eversense brand ambassador and this article was sponsored by Ascensia Diabetes Care

*There is no glucose data generated when the transmitter is removed

(NewsUSA) - “Onward, Ye Heroes” by C.S. Brown

In this exciting conclusion to the “Smoke Without Ash” fantasy series, three heroes must stand on the front line to defend the world from the forces of evil. Pushed by clans of dragons to accept a responsibility that never should have been theirs, they must face the Smoke Without Ash as it emerges from the northern deserts.

Driven by prophecies that suggest one of them is the Hero of Destiny, they lead the combined armies of men and dragons against the approaching menace. But prophecy is never clear, and they do not know which of them is the foretold hero.

They struggle to learn the truth, but the Smoke Without Ash advances. Out of time, they must find a way to work together, hoping they can answer the question before it is too late and darkness engulfs the world. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4h7MHbB.

“A Life in Frames” by Leonora Ross

A photojournalist consumed by his passion for telling stories through his camera lens. A father and son at a war of wills. Lovers struggling to find a way to each other.

This coming-of-age literary saga follows Namibian photojournalist Lejf Busher, an intense and complex individual with his head in the clouds. Two women are central to Lejf's existence: his mother and the woman he loves. Destined for success and international acclaim, he discovers the complex reality of a career that separates him from his relationships. Lejf's expectations of a world and people he cannot change force him to confront his fears and choices when he can no longer run from them.

“A Life in Frames” is about the push and pull between the ties that bind us and the desires that motivate us, and about coming to grips with the consequences of unspoken and misinterpreted words. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3DvWeLG.

“Estranged: How Strained Female Friendships Are Mended or Ended” by Susan Shapiro Barash

When life gets hard, women turn to their female friends. Husbands, partners and jobs come and go, but close friendships are our bedrock. Until they're not. What happens when these bonds sabotage instead of support? By peeling back the societal narrative that our friendships are meant to last forever, Susan Shapiro Barash uncovers a more nuanced reality: the closest bonds do falter.

“Estranged” is an eye-opening investigation/practical guide for women navigating the murky waters of suboptimal friendships. The book sheds light on the unspoken pain of estrangement — both for the "estranger" who walks away and the "estrangee" who is left behind. Amid candid confessions of betrayal and grief, Barash challenges women to reimagine their friendships and take the bold step of letting go when necessary.

This cutting-edge book offers an empowering path forward: learning to prioritize self-worth, stability and authenticity over loyalty to friendships that no longer serve us. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4ijtR2n.

“Horrible Women, Wonderful Girls” by Julie Ann Sipos

In this spirited satire of sisterhood and survival across The Urban Frontier, a daring new literary heroine emerges to heal a divided nation — whether it wants her to or not.

Kids' entertainment executive Jaycee Grayson, fresh from rehab and forced out of her hard-won studio job, seeks the unlikely refuge of Littleburgh, Wisconsin. There she expects to find like-minded ladies helming Littleburgh's famous high-end doll empire — only to confront an unfriendly outpost of Prairie Karens, an army of happy backstabbers harboring a billion-dollar web of secrets and masks.

Fueled by irreverence and wit as sharp as a stiletto skating on thin ice, a twisted plot leads Jaycee and her fellow misfits toward either a joyful rebellion or a public execution in the town square. Buckle in for a poignant, provocative and darkly funny showdown between Hollywood and the heartland. Purchase at https://amzn.to/3DJimlV

(NewsUSA) - If you put on socks this morning but skipped the sunscreen, you’re doing it wrong — at least according to a new nationwide campaign launched on  World Health Day  earlier this spring.

The #WearSunscreen campaign, led by the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and supported by the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) and the Health In Hand Foundation, is reminding Americans to make sunscreen part of their daily routine — no matter the time of year, your age, or your skin tone.

Because here's the deal: skin cancer is the most common cancer in America, and it doesn’t take a beach day to get burned.

 “Sunscreen is one of the most reliable and accessible tools we have to reduce the risk of skin cancer,” said Dr. Jane Yoo, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in New York City. “Just like brushing your teeth or clicking your seatbelt, wearing sunscreen should be a consistent part of your daily routine all year long. And the good news is — it works. Regular sunscreen use can cut your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma in half and lower your melanoma risk by 40 percent.”

The stats are sobering. More than 5 million people are treated for skin cancer in the U.S. each year, and melanoma, the deadliest form, is on the rise. Experts estimate one person dies of melanoma every hour.

But here’s the good news: sunscreens work, and they’re safe.

That’s the message behind #WearSunscreen, which will use smart graphics, dermatologist tips, myth-busting facts, and relatable messages to break through. The campaign encourages everyone to spread the word by posting about their sun-safe habits, and tagging friends, and most importantly, to spread on some sunscreen, too.

And no, you don’t need to agonize over which kind to use. “All FDA-approved sunscreens — mineral or non-mineral, lotion, stick, or spray — are safe and effective when used as directed,” says Mary Leonard, Executive Director of the Health In Hand Foundation, a nonprofit focused on educating consumers about the safe use of self-care products. “The best sunscreen is the one you’ll use and reapply regularly.”

What about all the sudden sunscreen skeptics on social media? The campaign has answers for them too, including dermatologists explaining why your skincare routine isn’t complete without SPF and why fears about sunscreen ingredients are misguided especially when compared to the very real proven threat of deadly skin cancer.

The #WearSunscreen campaign is sharing content across print, broadcast, and social media platforms nationwide and providing information and assets for other organizations and consumers to share. Using the hashtag #WearSunscreen, people are encouraged to post about their own sun safety habits, share why sunscreen matters to them, and to tag friends and family to keep the momentum going.

So next time you step outside, take a second and slather up. Your skin will thank you tomorrow and in 20 years. Find campaign information and materials at www.personalcarecouncil.org/sunscreen.

(NewsUSA) - As the cold of winter fades, spring brings a fresh sense of renewal—and for many, it’s the first time in months they’ll be showing off their legs again. But for some, the thought of revealing their legs can come with hesitation. This may be especially true for those with varicose veins.

Varicose veins are a common condition that affects more than 30 million Americans.¹ These enlarged veins, visible just beneath the skin, are not just a cosmetic issue – they can signal underlying vein disease that causes blood to flow backward and pool in lower leg veins, causing pain and discomfort.

Varicose Veins as More Than Just a Cosmetic Issue

While cosmetic concerns and wanting to feel comfortable in your skin can be reason enough for treatment, varicose veins may also be a potential sign of a more urgent health condition that requires early diagnosis and treatment.

“Varicose veins go beyond appearance—they can be a sign of underlying vein disease that can lead to swelling, skin discoloration, general discomfort in the legs, and in more advanced cases cause venous ulcers,” said Dr. John Laird, Chief Medical Officer for Peripheral Vascular Health at Medtronic. “If these symptoms are familiar, I would encourage you to reach out to a doctor who can do an evaluation and determine the best course of treatment to help you find relief from pain and other symptoms.”

Know If You’re at Risk and Learn How to Step Up Your Health

Varicose veins and vein disease don’t discriminate — anyone, regardless of age, gender, or race, can be affected. However, certain factors may increase your risk. A family history of vein disease, smoking, or obesity can make vein problems more likely.² Additionally, women who are pregnant, taking birth control, or going through menopause may experience a higher risk due to hormonal changes that can relax vein walls, making it easier for veins to swell.²

"Varicose veins can worsen over time if left untreated,” explained Dr. Laird. “But the good news is there are innovative treatments and simple self-care strategies that can help manage symptoms. Adopting a few healthy habits can make a significant difference."

Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, elevating your legs when possible, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing are all helpful steps.³ Dr. Laird also recommends wearing compression socks to support improved circulation and relieve discomfort.

Medtronic just marked the milestone of shipping over one million VenaSeal closure system units worldwide.

A Quick and Easy Option for Varicose Vein Treatment

While lifestyle changes can help manage varicose veins, they won’t cure them. For a more permanent solution, treatments like VenaSeal™ are gaining popularity. This medical adhesive is a quick and effective way to treat varicose veins with minimal recovery time— and may not require compression stockings following the procedure.^5-6  Following the procedure, your doctor can help you know when you are able get back to doing what you love— from outdoor activities to spending time with family.^4-7

Heather Anderson, a mom, avid runner, and boot camp enthusiast, opted for the VenaSeal procedure to treat her tired and achy legs. “The treatment was smooth. I was awake the whole time, felt no pain, and was incredibly comfortable,” Heather shared of her experience. “When it was done, I got up and walked right out. I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Minimally invasive treatments like VenaSeal are becoming the go-to choice for people dealing with varicose veins. “More patients are choosing minimally invasive options to treat varicose veins,” Dr. Laird said. “Medtronic recently celebrated a huge milestone — shipping over one million units of the VenaSeal system worldwide, showing just how popular and effective this treatment has become.”

VenaSeal is a procedure where a small tube is inserted into the affected vein, and a specially formulated medical adhesive is used to seal the vein walls together. This reroutes blood to healthier veins, providing long-term relief from pain and discomfort. The best part? While each patient experience is unique, pain is generally considered mild, and most are back to their daily activities with minimal downtime.^4-7

Break Free from Leg Pain this Spring

If you’re dealing with varicose veins, it might be time to take action. Life shouldn’t be limited by pain caused by vein disease. Relieve your leg pain and talk to your doctor about whether VenaSeal could be the right option for you – it’s a quick and effective treatment that can help you get back to enjoying the beach, the lake, the pool, or wherever your warm weather adventures take you.

For more details, including important safety information, on VenaSeal, visit: https://www.medtronic.com/breakfree.

Sources

1. Gloviczki P, Comerota AJ, Dalsing MC, et al. The care of patients with varicose veins and associated chronic venous diseases: Clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. J Vasc Surg. 2011;53(5 Suppl):2S–48S. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.079.
2. Mayo Clinic: Varicose Veinshttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643
3. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Varicose Veins https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/varicose-veins
4. Morrison N, Gibson K, McEnroe S, et al. Randomized trial comparing cyanoacrylate embolization and radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins (VeClose). J Vasc Surg. 2015;61(4):985–994. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2014.11.071.
5. Proebstle T, Alm J, Dimitri S, et al. Three-year follow-up results of the prospective European multicenter cohort study on cyanoacrylate embolization for treatment of refluxing great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2021;9(2):329–334. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2020.05.019.
6. Almeida JI, Javier JJ, Mackay EG, Bautista C, Cher DJ, Proebstle TM. Thirty-sixth-month follow-up of first-in-human use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for treatment of saphenous vein incompetence. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(5):658–666. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2017.03.016.
7. Morrison N, Gibson, Vasquez M, et al. VeClose trial 12-month outcomes of cyanoacrylate closure versus radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(3):321–330. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2016.12.005.

(NewsUSA) - For more details, including important safety information, on VenaSeal, visit: https://www.medtronic.com/breakfree.

Sources

¹ Gloviczki P, Comerota AJ, Dalsing MC, et al. The care of patients with varicose veins and associated chronic venous diseases: Clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. J Vasc Surg. 2011;53(5 Suppl):2S–48S. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.079.

² Mayo Clinic: Varicose Veinshttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643

³ National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Varicose Veins https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/varicose-veins

⁴ Morrison N, Gibson K, McEnroe S, et al. Randomized trial comparing cyanoacrylate embolization and radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins (VeClose). J Vasc Surg. 2015;61(4):985–994. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2014.11.071.

⁵ Proebstle T, Alm J, Dimitri S, et al. Three-year follow-up results of the prospective European multicenter cohort study on cyanoacrylate embolization for treatment of refluxing great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2021;9(2):329–334. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2020.05.019.

⁶ Almeida JI, Javier JJ, Mackay EG, Bautista C, Cher DJ, Proebstle TM. Thirty-sixth-month follow-up of first-in-human use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for treatment of saphenous vein incompetence. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(5):658–666. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2017.03.016.

(NewsUSA) - For more details, including important safety information, on VenaSeal, visit: https://www.medtronic.com/breakfree.

Sources

1. Gloviczki P, Comerota AJ, Dalsing MC, et al. The care of patients with varicose veins and associated chronic venous diseases: Clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. J Vasc Surg. 2011;53(5 Suppl):2S–48S. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.079.
2. Mayo Clinic: Varicose Veinshttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643
3. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Varicose Veins https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/varicose-veins
4. Morrison N, Gibson K, McEnroe S, et al. Randomized trial comparing cyanoacrylate embolization and radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins (VeClose). J Vasc Surg. 2015;61(4):985–994. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2014.11.071.
5. Proebstle T, Alm J, Dimitri S, et al. Three-year follow-up results of the prospective European multicenter cohort study on cyanoacrylate embolization for treatment of refluxing great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2021;9(2):329–334. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2020.05.019.
6. Almeida JI, Javier JJ, Mackay EG, Bautista C, Cher DJ, Proebstle TM. Thirty-sixth-month follow-up of first-in-human use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for treatment of saphenous vein incompetence. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(5):658–666. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2017.03.016.

Mar 28, 2025 09:26 am

(NewsUSA) - For more details, including important safety information, on VenaSeal, visit: https://www.medtronic.com/breakfree.

Sources

1. Gloviczki P, Comerota AJ, Dalsing MC, et al. The care of patients with varicose veins and associated chronic venous diseases: Clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. J Vasc Surg. 2011;53(5 Suppl):2S–48S. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.079.
2. Mayo Clinic: Varicose Veinshttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643
3. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Varicose Veins https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/varicose-veins
4. Morrison N, Gibson K, McEnroe S, et al. Randomized trial comparing cyanoacrylate embolization and radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins (VeClose). J Vasc Surg. 2015;61(4):985–994. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2014.11.071.
5. Proebstle T, Alm J, Dimitri S, et al. Three-year follow-up results of the prospective European multicenter cohort study on cyanoacrylate embolization for treatment of refluxing great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2021;9(2):329–334. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2020.05.019.
6. Almeida JI, Javier JJ, Mackay EG, Bautista C, Cher DJ, Proebstle TM. Thirty-sixth-month follow-up of first-in-human use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for treatment of saphenous vein incompetence. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(5):658–666. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2017.03.016.

(NewsUSA) - As the cold of winter fades, spring brings a fresh sense of renewal—and for many, it’s the first time in months they’ll be showing off their legs again. But for some, the thought of revealing their legs can come with hesitation. This may be especially true for those with varicose veins.

Varicose veins are a common condition that affects more than 30 million Americans.¹ These enlarged veins, visible just beneath the skin, are not just a cosmetic issue – they can signal underlying vein disease that causes blood to flow backward and pool in lower leg veins, causing pain and discomfort.

Varicose Veins as More Than Just a Cosmetic Issue

While cosmetic concerns and wanting to feel comfortable in your skin can be reason enough for treatment, varicose veins may also be a potential sign of a more urgent health condition that requires early diagnosis and treatment.

“Varicose veins go beyond appearance—they can be a sign of underlying vein disease that can lead to swelling, skin discoloration, general discomfort in the legs, and in more advanced cases cause venous ulcers,” said Dr. John Laird, Chief Medical Officer for Peripheral Vascular Health at Medtronic. “If these symptoms are familiar, I would encourage you to reach out to a doctor who can do an evaluation and determine the best course of treatment to help you find relief from pain and other symptoms.”

Know If You’re at Risk and Learn How to Step Up Your Health

Varicose veins and vein disease don’t discriminate — anyone, regardless of age, gender, or race, can be affected. However, certain factors may increase your risk. A family history of vein disease, smoking, or obesity can make vein problems more likely.² Additionally, women who are pregnant, taking birth control, or going through menopause may experience a higher risk due to hormonal changes that can relax vein walls, making it easier for veins to swell.²

"Varicose veins can worsen over time if left untreated,” explained Dr. Laird. “But the good news is there are innovative treatments and simple self-care strategies that can help manage symptoms. Adopting a few healthy habits can make a significant difference."

Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, elevating your legs when possible, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing are all helpful steps.³ Dr. Laird also recommends wearing compression socks to support improved circulation and relieve discomfort.

Medtronic just marked the milestone of shipping over one million VenaSeal closure system units worldwide.

A Quick and Easy Option for Varicose Vein Treatment

While lifestyle changes can help manage varicose veins, they won’t cure them. For a more permanent solution, treatments like VenaSeal™ are gaining popularity. This medical adhesive is a quick and effective way to treat varicose veins with minimal recovery time— and may not require compression stockings following the procedure.^5-6  Following the procedure, your doctor can help you know when you are able get back to doing what you love— from outdoor activities to spending time with family.^4-7

Heather Anderson, a mom, avid runner, and boot camp enthusiast, opted for the VenaSeal procedure to treat her tired and achy legs. “The treatment was smooth. I was awake the whole time, felt no pain, and was incredibly comfortable,” Heather shared of her experience. “When it was done, I got up and walked right out. I’d recommend it to anyone.”

Minimally invasive treatments like VenaSeal are becoming the go-to choice for people dealing with varicose veins. “More patients are choosing minimally invasive options to treat varicose veins,” Dr. Laird said. “Medtronic recently celebrated a huge milestone — shipping over one million units of the VenaSeal system worldwide, showing just how popular and effective this treatment has become.”

VenaSeal is a procedure where a small tube is inserted into the affected vein, and a specially formulated medical adhesive is used to seal the vein walls together. This reroutes blood to healthier veins, providing long-term relief from pain and discomfort. The best part? While each patient experience is unique, pain is generally considered mild, and most are back to their daily activities with minimal downtime.^4-7

Break Free from Leg Pain this Spring

If you’re dealing with varicose veins, it might be time to take action. Life shouldn’t be limited by pain caused by vein disease. Relieve your leg pain and talk to your doctor about whether VenaSeal could be the right option for you – it’s a quick and effective treatment that can help you get back to enjoying the beach, the lake, the pool, or wherever your warm weather adventures take you.

For more details, including important safety information, on VenaSeal, visit: https://www.medtronic.com/breakfree.

Sources

1. Gloviczki P, Comerota AJ, Dalsing MC, et al. The care of patients with varicose veins and associated chronic venous diseases: Clinical practice guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. J Vasc Surg. 2011;53(5 Suppl):2S–48S. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.079.
2. Mayo Clinic: Varicose Veinshttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/varicose-veins/symptoms-causes/syc-20350643
3. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Varicose Veins https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/varicose-veins
4. Morrison N, Gibson K, McEnroe S, et al. Randomized trial comparing cyanoacrylate embolization and radiofrequency ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins (VeClose). J Vasc Surg. 2015;61(4):985–994. doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2014.11.071.
5. Proebstle T, Alm J, Dimitri S, et al. Three-year follow-up results of the prospective European multicenter cohort study on cyanoacrylate embolization for treatment of refluxing great saphenous veins. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2021;9(2):329–334. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2020.05.019.
6. Almeida JI, Javier JJ, Mackay EG, Bautista C, Cher DJ, Proebstle TM. Thirty-sixth-month follow-up of first-in-human use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for treatment of saphenous vein incompetence. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord. 2017;5(5):658–666. doi: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2017.03.016.

(NewsUSA) - The American energy landscape is evolving, and with it, new opportunities are emerging for economic growth, job creation, and energy independence. Offshore wind energy stands out as a transformative solution, capable of revitalizing communities and securing a sustainable future.

At the heart of this transformation is a story of vision and adaptation. In Louisiana, Chett Chiasson has overseen Port Fourchon, a port vital to America's energy sector, for the last 15 years. Building on the port's extensive experience serving offshore oil and gas operations, Chett recognizes its potential to support America’s growing offshore wind industry. Chett’s work to integrate offshore wind into Louisiana's energy heritage exemplifies the kind of innovative thinking needed to power America's future.

Offshore wind energy presents numerous economic benefits for communities like Chett’s across the country. If all the planned projects are allowed to move forward, the offshore wind industry will bring an estimated $65 billion of investment in large-scale projects by 2030, creating an estimated 56,000 jobs across various industries. These are high-paying jobs in construction, maritime trades, and manufacturing, offering vital opportunities for professional growth. Beyond job creation, offshore wind projects stimulate local economies by creating new revenue for communities like land lease payments and tax payments.

The coastal states that are pursuing offshore wind energy are densely populated without more land area to grow other power sources. These big cities with surging demand for power have limited transmission and pipeline capacity. So offshore wind power is the best option for meeting growing electricity demand in short order, as the projects have already been under development for years. And producing wind energy here at home means greater energy independence and less reliance on foreign sources.

New polling data conducted by the Terrance Group shows bipartisan support for tapping into offshore wind’s vast potential. Nearly two-thirds of voters polled in 12 states favor offshore wind development both in the U.S. and off the coast of their own states. Support for offshore wind bridges party lines, with particularly high Republican support in states like Texas and Virginia. And majorities of voters agree that we should incorporate more clean energy like offshore wind into our energy mix.

Offshore wind energy represents a transformative opportunity to power our economy, create jobs, and ensure a sustainable energy supply. By embracing offshore wind as part of America’s all-of-the-above energy mix, we can create a bright future powered by homegrown American energy.