(NewsUSA) -

Expanded Screening Coverage Can Reduce Needless Deaths Colorectal cancer deaths are declining, but shocking regional, racial and ethnic disparities remain. According to the American Cancer Society, Latinos in the United States are more likely to die from colorectal cancer than those in many Central and South American countries, and death rates among Black men and women are 40% higher than their white counterparts. Rural residents are also far more likely to die from this often-preventable disease than those in urban areas. Much of this is due to lack of screening.

(NewsUSA) - Expanded Screening Coverage Can Reduce Needless Deaths

Colorectal cancer deaths are declining, but shocking regional, racial and ethnic disparities remain. According to the American Cancer Society, Latinos in the United States are more likely to die from colorectal cancer than those in many Central and South American countries, and death rates among Black men and women are 40% higher than their white counterparts. Rural residents are also far more likely to die from this often-preventable disease than those in urban areas. Much of this is due to lack of screening.

Colorectal cancer care groups, minority healthcare advocates and doctors have long held that virtual colonoscopy, or CT Colonography, can overcome cultural stigmas and anxiety associated with this screening. In January, Medicare began covering virtual colonoscopy – which uses a CT scanner to generate 3D, moving images of the colon that doctors examine for signs of cancer and for precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they become cancers.  

“Patients should have a choice in their screening options,” said Anjee Davis, MPPA, CEO of Fight Colorectal Cancer. “It’s important to consider the whole patient—their preferences, comfort, and what they feel is the best fit for them. For some, it might be a virtual colonoscopy or another less-invasive screening option.”

At least 53,000 people in the U.S. still die from colorectal cancer each year. Virtual colonoscopy use is growing most quickly among Black Americans and Latinos. Many experts think more covered exams can convince the 30% of US residents who should be screened, but choose not to, to get tested.

“Affordability and accessibility are critical factors in determining whether a person will get screened for colorectal cancer. Improving access and choice for more people can help save lives and bring us closer to ending the disease in our lifetime," said Michael Sapienza, CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.

The Affordable Care Act requires private insurers to cover the exam. CIGNA, UnitedHealthcare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna and other large insurers have covered these tests for years.

Preparation for virtual and standard colonoscopies is the same, but the virtual test is far less invasive and does not require sedation. It is over in minutes. A person does not need to get a ride to or from the exam and can return to daily activities.

“Many in low-income communities, including single parents, can’t afford to take a day off work, and may not have reliable transportation or childcare,” said Cecelia Brewington, MD, Chair of Medical Imaging at Ochsner Health System, New Orleans. “Being able to go back to work afterward may determine whether that person gets tested – which can ultimately save their life.

Virtual colonoscopy is recommended by the American Cancer Society for those at average colorectal cancer risk, with no family history of the disease or other major gastrointestinal issues. President Obama had a virtual colonoscopy while in office.

“Medicare covering virtual colonoscopies enables more people to be screened, allows doctors to remove more polyps before they become cancers and helps people avoid getting this disease altogether. This will save lives,” said Judy Yee, MD, chair of the American College of Radiology Colon Cancer Committee, and Professor and Chair of Radiology at Montefiore Health System and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY.

Those ages 45 and older should talk to their doctor about which exam works best for them.

More information is available at RadiologyInfo.org/virtualct.

(NewsUSA) - Many small, family-owned farms in America are struggling to make ends meet. But some farmers like Byron Kominek are discovering how renewable energy can help them keep their land and their way of life.

Byron’s 24-acre farm in Longmont, Colorado, has been in his family for 50 years. His family’s hay-growing business was no longer paying the bills, and Byron needed to find a new way to sustain the land that honored the hard work put in over multiple generations.

After exploring several land management options, Byron decided to build a solar farm on four acres of land, which generates land lease revenue for his family and power for more than 300 homes each year.

Byron is also exploring the emerging farming technique of agrivoltaics, which involves growing crops under solar panels. The microclimates created beneath the solar panels open the door for farmers to grow different varieties of crops. It’s a win-win for forward-thinking farmers like Byron, who are re-purposing their land to grow new crops and produce clean energy.

Byron is not alone in his adoption of American-made energy on the family farm. Approximately one-third of Colorado’s electricity is currently generated by wind or solar power, including from family farms like Byron’s, according to the American Clean Power Association (ACP).

ACP represents the clean energy industry, including companies developing wind, solar, and clean hydrogen power. Visit cleanpower.org to learn more about how renewable energy sources can help family farms thrive in the future.

 

(NewsUSA) - Aunque las enfermedades del corazón se pueden prevenir en gran medida, aun así, siguen siendo la principal causa de muerte en los Estados Unidos. Las enfermedades cardíacas afectan a millones de personas y su impacto no es igual en todas las comunidades.

Las comunidades de afroamericanos, hispanos/latinos, asiáticos/isleños del Pacífico e indios americanos/nativos de Alaska presentan tasas más altas tanto de enfermedades del corazón como de factores de riesgo como presión arterial alta, colesterol alto, obesidad, diabetes y fumar. Las investigaciones respaldadas por el Instituto Nacional del Corazón, los Pulmones y la Sangre (NHLBI, por sus siglas en inglés) han demostrado que usted puede reducir su riesgo individual de padecer de enfermedades del corazón al tomar pasos preventivos: mantenerse activo físicamente, seguir una alimentación saludable, manejar el estrés, no fumar, dormir lo suficiente y controlar la presión arterial, el colesterol y la diabetes. Todo esto puede mejorar la salud de su corazón, pero el impacto puede ser aún mayor si une fuerzas con sus amigos y familiares para juntos llevar vidas más saludables. 

Los estudios han demostrado que tener relaciones positivas y cercanas y sentirse conectado con otras personas es beneficioso para su presión arterial, peso y salud en general, entre otras cosas. El programa The Heart Truth® del NHLBI sugiere algunas maneras en las que puede conectarse con sus amigos, vecinos y compañeros de trabajo para promover la salud del corazón en su propia comunidad: 

1. Organice un grupo de apoyo en línea para motivarse unos a otros mientras trabajan para alcanzar sus objetivos de salud.
    
2. Haga un tablero de anuncios virtual donde su comunidad pueda publicar mensajes de motivación y compartir recetas saludables para el corazón, junto con otros consejos.
    
3. Coordine caminatas en la comunidad para mantenerse activos juntos.
    
4. Pida a un proveedor de cuidados de salud de su área, a un trabajador de salud de la comunidad o a un educador de salud que organice sesiones educativas sobre la salud del corazón o para medir la presión arterial.

Compartir con otras personas en el lugar donde vive, trabaja y disfruta su tiempo libre puede ayudar a fomentar estilos de vida saludables para el corazón y a construir comunidades más saludables. Aprenda más sobre la salud del corazón y encuentre recursos para compartir en su comunidad en www.hearttruth.gov (en inglés). 

(NewsUSA) - Heart disease is largely preventable, yet it’s still the leading cause of death in the United States. It affects millions of people, and its impact is not shared equally among all communities.

African American, Hispanic/Latino, Asian/Pacific Islander, and American Indian/Alaska Native communities have higher rates of both heart disease and risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and smoking. Research supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) has shown that you can lower your individual risk for heart disease by taking preventive steps: being physically active, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, not smoking, getting enough sleep, and controlling your blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. All this can give your heart health a big boost, but the impact is greater when you join forces with friends and family members to be healthier – together.   

Studies have shown that having positive, close relationships and feeling connected to others benefits your overall health, blood pressure, weight, and more. NHLBI’s The Heart Truth® program suggests a few ways you can connect with friends, neighbors and colleagues to promote heart health in your own community: 

Set up an online support group to motivate each other as you work to meet your health goals.

Create a virtual bulletin board where your community can post encouraging comments and share heart-healthy recipes and other tips.

Schedule community walks to get your hearts pumping together.

Ask a local healthcare provider, community health worker, or health educator to host heart health education sessions or blood pressure screenings.

Connecting with others where you live, work, and play can help foster heart-healthy lifestyles and build healthier communities. Learn more about heart health and find resources to share in your community at www.hearttruth.gov. 

 

(NewsUSA) - From charging our phones to fueling up for family road trips and heating our homes, nearly      everything we do uses energy. It’s critical to daily life and a prosperous future. With that in mind, Congress created new energy tax credits in 2022 that lay the foundation for generational investments in all energy to meet growing demand.

These federal energy tax credits are boosting all homegrown energy, including renewables, which has created new jobs, saved consumers money, shored up our energy security and made our electric grid more reliable when extreme weather hits.

And the numbers are significant. These tax credits will create nearly 14 million jobs over the next decade, including doubling the number of clean energy jobs—long lasting careers—from roughly 3 million today to more than 6.5 million. Right now, the credits have already delivered 1.2 million annual jobs while providing new opportunities across multiple sectors, including construction and manufacturing.

The bottom line is that energy tax credits, are and will continue to produce massive dividends for all Americans, delivering a 4x return on taxpayer investment. Here are some eye-popping stats:

Approximately $740 billion in tax credits are estimated to deliver over $3 trillion in net benefits, including $1.88 trillion in economic benefits and over $1 trillion in environmental benefits

These credits boost household income through wages and savings on energy costs while reducing air pollution and providing enhanced energy security for American-made power.

Considering the growing demand, we need all the power we can to produce here at home. The good news is that clean power capacity is growing and is expected to supply enough energy to power every home in the U.S. three times over by 2035 with the help of these energy tax credits.

Now is the time to embrace and foster innovation in homegrown power. Lawmakers in Washington should protect energy tax credits so we can continue to invest in all forms of energy to power our daily lives today and in the future.

 

 

 

(NewsUSA) - Every Fall by Angela Douglas

A chilling thriller, perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter and Lisa Gardner, exploring the dark side of police culture and family trauma.

Bree knew life married to a beat cop would be tough, but she believes their family will be fine living in the crime-infested city of East Bernheim — that is, until one day crime follows them home. Jake then agrees to stretch their finances and move to a bigger house in a better neighborhood. But Bree, now pregnant with their second child, begins to hear voices and suffer strange dreams. Then when tragedy strikes on the job, Jake enters a spiral of guilt and grief that degrades his grip on reality.

Bree, isolated and struggling, must protect her children from the one person she thought would always keep them safe. A thriller that tackles toxic masculinity in police culture and trauma, you’ll be on the edge of your seat. Purchase at https://bit.ly/400i0PY.

Dear God, My Life Is in Jeopardy by Tom Covino

When you read the story of Evelyn Dawson, you'll never quite be the same again.

The beginning will make you wonder, the middle will shock you, and the ending may cause you to re-evaluate what you thought were the right answers to some of life's deepest questions.

This book answers the greatest fear that man has … why am I afraid to die? The first half is written as fiction, and then tied up through facts and truth. In the story, Evelyn finds herself on the game show Jeopardy. No Alex Trebek or other players, just her, the host, and an audience made up of all the best professional actors, athletes and singers. Says one reviewer,  “I can’t recall a book that affected me so much. From suspenseful and gripping, from Jeopardy to the final courtroom, this book shook me to the core.”  Purchase at https://bit.ly/4g003qA.

Our Best Selves by David Torne

Wisdom for our souls' growth. As part of our human nature, we yearn for the compelling desire to grow and evolve as individuals, even without being fully aware of this fact. Our soul yearns to reach that version of ourselves that best defines us and to overcome those limitations that distance us from our purest essence.

This book is a guide with a great transforming power that, in a simple and entertaining way, will provide readers with essential tools for the ultimate purpose of helping them in their personal and vital development.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery to unlearn what no longer serves us and at the same time help us to establish new guidelines that favor our well-being and pave the way to a full and authentic life. Achieving the best version of ourselves becomes a commitment that, at a collective level, can potentially transform all of humanity. Purchase at https://bit.ly/4j0e4Gi.

Race to Cable Town (Book 1) by Edward Penner

Tom finds an old letter in his attic addressed to his great-grandfather, and the letter is signed by a man named Clayton. Who is he and why was he sent to jail? Tom and Andy ride to Cable Field in search of clues. But when they get there, Andy is challenged to a bike race, and it’s sure to be his toughest race ever.

Can Andy win or has he finally met someone faster? And, when the race is over, can the boys learn more about the mysterious man named Clayton? It’s the start of a bold new adventure for Tom and Andy.

This first book in the series is an action-packed story that will keep young readers turning the pages and help them discover that reading adventure stories can be just as much fun as cell phones, video games and other distractions. Learn more at www.edwardpenner.com.

 

(NewsUSA) -  

We're All Mad Here: An (In)Elegant Memoir by Marie Kuipers

Peer behind the curtain of one fiercely opinionated and unapologetically peculiar woman’s unhinged life. If her upbringing in Dirty Jerz and her narcissistic mother aren’t enough, add a psychotic catfishing ex-husband, a lifesaving Solo cup, heaps of grief, and a dash of Lyme, and you’ve got the recipe for a (mostly) hilarious roller-coaster ride of a read.

Experience the epiphany that saves a beloved rooster from an evil HOA Karen. Bond over such atrocities as puke, the patriarchy, and plus-sized effrontery. Find unexpected solace in a simple feather.

This collection of sketches forms the gooey center of a Venn diagram for “dark,” “irreverent,” and “raucously funny.”

For everyone who has dreamed of conquering calamity, embracing chaos, or banging a hot vampire, We’re All Mad Here plunges you into a maelstrom of heartbreak, hilarity, and, finally, forgiveness. Purchase at https://amzn.to/4jP0KFh.

Under the Charcoal Sky by John H. Cunningham

After a life-changing discovery, Buck Reilly embarks on his greatest adventure, which threatens to be his last. The identity of the woman who gave him life is a closely guarded secret for reasons that go far beyond her own short existence. As Buck pursues information that has been fiercely hidden in Scotland for generations, it puts him and his friends in the crosshairs of a secret society whose sole purpose is to eliminate any threat of exposing the truth. Their lives depend on Buck finding missing ancient documents and treasure, impossibly fast, or they will all be killed.

The breathless pace will carry readers deep into the night as Buck races against the clock to overcome a double-cross that will cut him to the core as he faces off against the coldest, most brutal circumstances one could endure. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3W9UfT8.

Puppied to Death by C.B. Wilson

A murder, an ancient rivalry, and a puppy you can’t help but love…

A frantic plea from her sister sends Cat Hawl on a rescue mission to Hawaii. What should’ve been a simple mediation between Lani and their mother turns deadly. Not only is a tea sommelier murdered, but a puppy has turned the crime scene into a dog’s breakfast, and Cat’s trouble-prone sister is nowhere to be found.

Since the police suspect the worst, it’s up to Cat to dig deeper. With her mother and Miss Marple Mahjong Mama’s help, Cat uncovers an ancient rivalry rooted in the Forbidden City. Can a thousand-year-old tea reading be the cause of the current puppy pandemonium and mounting body count?

Puppied to Death is the charming ninth book in the Barkview Mysteries series, with characters out of their comfort zones, spectacular twists, and plenty of paw-friendly humor. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3PoCzQ2.

My Bully, My Aunt & Her Final Gift by Harold Phifer

Sometimes the death of a loved one can fix your pain. Here’s a funeral that turned into a comedy show. The death of the author’s evil aunt taught him a lot about grief, love, loss, resentment and redemption. After her death, he was tasked with the job of putting together a memorial that no one wanted to attend.

It’s far from grim — there’s laughter until the end.

Most of the story is recreated from real-life experiences of a misguided kid. Readers will be shocked by the darkness and behaviors of a close blood relative. Logic and Aunt Kathy never coexisted, whereas her philosophies and arbitrary enforcements kept the author off-balance for much of his young life. Somehow, he survived the chaos, abuse, and despicable treatment then and found another way. This story pulls back the covers to that sick, twisted, and formative relationship the author had to endure. Purchase at https://bit.ly/3PZlNqQ.

 

(NewsUSA) - While February is recognized as National Random Acts of Kindness month, at Marine Toys for Tots, we believe kindness knows no boundaries—nor does it follow a calendar. Kindness is intentional, and our year-round mission embodies this philosophy through our “Not So Random Acts of Kindness” initiative—a mission that enables us to deliver optimism and joy to children in need throughout the year and achieve record-breaking milestones.

Thanks to generous and intentional donors across the Nation, Toys for Tots is able to respond to the needs of children whose lives have been upended by natural disasters, in addition to providing year-round support for disadvantaged children. In 2024, Marine Toys for Tots delivered more than 30 million toys, books, and games to nearly 13 million children in need!

“I am deeply humbled by the incredible generosity of our supporters,” said LtGen James Laster, USMC (Retired), CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Every donation and every act of kindness strengthens our mission and allows us to reach more disadvantaged children, year after year. Together, we are truly making a difference,” he said.

As we step into a new year, our resolve has never been stronger. The Marine Toys for Tots Program remains committed to supporting those in need throughout the year, because we know that needs don’t follow a seasonal timeline. Whether assistance is needed during the holiday season or after crises such as Hurricane Helene or the California wildfires, Toys for Tots stands ready to help families and children who are facing unimaginable challenges and adversity.

Girls and boys who had lost their homes, their belongings, and their sense of security as a result of last year’s natural disasters received a glimmer of hope at Toys for Tots’ emergency distribution event in Hendersonville, North Carolina. In total, over 10,000 toys, books, and games made their way into the hands of 2,600 families.  

Just like the support we provided to the families whose lives were turned upside down in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, we will provide comfort and assistance to children and families in the communities surrounding Los Angeles.

“Los Angeles is where Toys for Tots began 78 years ago, and in response to the wildfires that ravaged our Program's birthplace, we are assembling and preparing to distribute emotional relief packages through our Disaster Recovery and Response Initiative,” LtGen Laster said.

On February 8^th, our partner, the Sydney Paige Foundation, organized a distribution event in Pasadena, California, for the children and families who have lost everything in the fires. During this event, 5,000 toys, books, and other gifts – provided by Toys for Tots – were distributed to 2,800 families.

“The tragic fires in Los Angeles have put countless families in crisis, disrupting their lives and destroying homes. While our hearts ache for those affected, our dedication to assisting those in need remains steadfast,” stated LtGen Laster.

The Program is also providing additional emotional relief packages to our partner, Tackle Hunger, who will distribute the gifts to children and families during another distribution event on February 16^th with the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank.

The gifts provided by Toys for Tots offer vital comfort and care to children impacted by these disasters, providing them with hope and a sense of normalcy during their most challenging times.

To learn how you can donate or get involved, visit www.toysfortots.org.

(Madison Roberts) - A Convenient New Approach to Metabolic Health

Eden is providing access to a new way for individuals to explore GLP-1 therapy: a compounded semaglutide gummy, available through independent licensed providers and compounding pharmacies. Compounded semaglutide is available in different forms, including injections and gummies. Some patients may prefer alternative formats, but efficacy and safety data are limited. While compounded semaglutide is commonly prescribed in injectable form, this tropical-flavored gummy offers an alternative format that some patients may prefer, which independent licensed providers can discuss as a potential option.

Meeting Patients Where They Are Many Americans face challenges related to metabolic health, including obesity and its associated conditions. Barriers such as needle anxiety or complex treatment regimens often prevent individuals from seeking care. Eden aims to make it easier for patients to connect with independent licensed doctors who can evaluate their health needs and discuss potential treatment options. 

"Adherence improves when treatment integrates easily into patients’ lives," explains Adam McBride, Eden’s CEO. Eden’s digital platform streamlines access to independent healthcare professionals who can assess patients and determine eligibility for treatments like GLP-1 receptor agonists, including compounded semaglutide. 

Understanding GLP-1 Therapy GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, are FDA-approved for managing type 2 diabetes and  weight management when combined with diet and exercise. Some studies suggest these medications may influence appetite and blood sugar levels. 

Affordable and Accessible Care Eden connects patients with independent licensed healthcare providers for digital consultations, personalized care plans, and resources such as on-demand workout videos—all for $246 per month. This model aims to eliminate barriers to care by meeting patients’ needs through a convenient, fully digital platform.

Reframing the Conversation Around Metabolic Health Eden’s goal is to support individuals on their journey toward sustainable health improvements by connecting them with personalized care options. Rather than focusing on quick fixes, Eden emphasizes long-term, personalized care that empowers patients to feel their best.

"We’re shifting the conversation to focus on sustainable and manageable health goals," says Eden President Josh Khan. "By making care more accessible, we hope to break down barriers and make a real impact on patients’ lives."

The Future of GLP-1 Treatments Emerging research suggests that GLP-1 therapies may play a role in broader aspects of metabolic health. While studies explore potential applications in areas such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and inflammatory conditions. Patients are encouraged to consult with an Eden network provider to discuss potential benefits and determine what therapies are appropriate for their individual needs.

A Healthier Future, One Step at a Time Eden’s mission is simple: to make access to care seamless and empowering. Through their digital platform, Eden connects patients with licensed medical professionals who provide guidance informed by the latest scientific evidence. 

Important Note: Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved for safety or efficacy. All treatment plans and prescriptions are determined solely by the independent licensed healthcare providers patients consult through the Eden platform. While Eden does not manufacture or compound medications, it serves as a trusted resource connecting patients with qualified providers to explore treatment options. By simplifying access to care, Eden helps patients connect with providers as they take the first step toward addressing their metabolic health needs.