iLuma Medical Communications, Inc

This month, we shine light on Sarcoma Awareness. ✨✨ Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer arising from transformed cells of mesenchymal origin. Despite its rarity, with an incidence of about 1% of all adult cancers, sarcoma poses a significant burden due to its aggressive nature and limited treatment options.(1) ❤ The survival rates for sarcoma can vary significantly depending on the type and stage of the disease at diagnosis, with overall 5-year survival rates ranging from 50% to 60%.(2) Unfortunately, many patients are diagnosed at a later stage when the cancer has already spread, limiting the effectiveness of treatment. Current treatment options for sarcoma primarily include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, but the outcomes remain less than optimal for many patients.(3) 📑 Novel therapeutic strategies are showing promise in clinical trials. For instance, atezolizumab, an immunotherapy drug, has demonstrated encouraging results in enhancing the immune system's ability to fight cancer. Tiragolumab, another immunotherapy, is being tested with other treatments and has shown potential in improving patient outcomes.(4) To support and learn more about sarcoma, please visit Sarcoma Foundation of America 💞 #MedComms #iLuma #Sarcoma References: 1.     Sarcoma Foundation of America. Patient Resources. Accessed June 10, 2024. https://lnkd.in/gUWKrZzg. 2.     American Childhood Cancer Organization. Sarcoma Awareness Month. Accessed June 10, 2024. https://lnkd.in/g7XvGjys. 3.     Rein in Sarcoma. About Sarcomas. Accessed June 10, 2024. https://lnkd.in/gGtuiRPZ 0vxlU2NaNKEzyhDzq7IRhgaAu5OEALw_wcB. 4.     National Cancer Institute. Tiragolumab. Accessed June 10, 2024. https://lnkd.in/gane6XNj

It's #ChronicDiseaseAwarenessMonth! At iLuma, our mission is to raise awareness and enhance the lives of those affected by chronic diseases. This month, we're spotlighting chronic respiratory, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular conditions to promote understanding and support for those managing these health challenges. Did you know: ☀ Individuals with chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) like asthma and COPD are more vulnerable to serious illness from certain preventable diseases. Keeping up with vaccinations, including COVID-19, Influenza, Pneumococcal pneumonia, RSV, T-dap, and Zoster is crucial for optimal protection.(1) ☀ In the United States, approximately 3.1 million adults (1.3%) live with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).(2) Managing IBD involves identifying and avoiding triggers such as specific foods, medications, and emotional stressors to help alleviate symptoms.(3) ☀ In 2019, about 17.9 million deaths worldwide were attributed to cardiovascular diseases, with 85% resulting from heart attacks and strokes.(4) Taking proactive steps to manage risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes can also play a vital role in cardiovascular health.(5) ➡➡ Millions of people are affected every year by a variety of chronic diseases, but there is hope! We're proud to support better health outcomes by raising awareness of treatment options. #iLuma #AwarenessMonth #CRDs #AsthmaAwareness 📝 References: 1.    Association AL. Vaccines that Protect Against Respiratory Disease. www.lung.org. https://lnkd.in/gtuSuwbd 2.    People with IBD Have More Chronic Diseases. www.cdc.gov. Published May 21, 2020. https://lnkd.in/gNQ5DFfK 3.      Cleveland Clinic. Gastrointestinal Diseases: Symptoms, Treatment & Causes. Cleveland Clinic. Published January 14, 2021. https://lnkd.in/gGrC-7rT 4.     World Health Organization. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). World Health Organization. Published June 11, 2021. https://lnkd.in/ddS67Yb) 5.    Rippe JM. Lifestyle Strategies for Risk Factor Reduction, Prevention, and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. 2019;13(2):204-212. doi:https://lnkd.in/ghGFPZYb  

As we embark on Men's Health Awareness Month this June, it's crucial to confront the stark realities of men's health and take proactive steps to address them. ✅ The CDC reports that 50.5% of men aged 18 and older have hypertension or high blood pressure, measured or treated with medication (1). This staggering statistic emphasizes the urgent need for men to prioritize their cardiovascular health through regular check-ups and lifestyle changes. ❤ Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among men, followed closely by cancer and accidents (unintentionalinjuries) (1). By taking preventive measures such as monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and weight, men can significantly reduce their risk of cardiovascular diseases and improve their overall well-being (2). Moreover, regular screenings and early detection are paramount in the fight against cancer and other life-threatening illnesses (2). Men are often less likely than women to seek medical attention,(3) but it's essential to prioritize health and not ignore warning signs or symptoms. 🤝 Join iLuma in making Men's Health Awareness Month a catalyst for positive change. #MensHealth #MensHealthMonth #HealthForHim #PreventiveCare References: 1.    FASTSTATS - Mens Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. May 2, 2024. Accessed May 28, 2024. https://lnkd.in/gXdsUZ_c  2.    The importance of Men’s Health Month. Lifespan. June 5, 2023. Accessed May 28, 2024. https://lnkd.in/esTZcDTa  3.    Men’s Health Month: Five things to know. blogs. June 22, 2023. Accessed May 28, 2024. https://lnkd.in/gUUiJ6zw   

Happy Pride Month! 🌈 As of 2020, approximately 13.9 million adults in the United States identify as LGBT. (6) Strides have been made in LGBTQ+ rights, but systemic challenges and discrimination still affect the well-being of numerous community members, including in the healthcare sector. (3)    The LGBTQ+ community faces many challenges in healthcare, including discrimination, social pressures, and fewer healthcare resources. (1,2,5) In a 2017 survey, the Center for American Progress found that healthcare providers refused to see 8% of respondents due to their LGBTQ status. (2)    iLuma recognizes the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community and aims to remove these healthcare barriers by encouraging equal representation in medical studies and promoting ongoing education in healthcare about gender identities and sexual orientation.  It is important to use your voice to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality and challenge discrimination. Show support on social media and attend local events such as festivals and parades. (4)   This Pride Month let's dedicate some time to promote inclusivity, equality, and acceptance for everyone. Remain up to date on LGBTQ initiatives by following the World Health Organization’s webpage here. https://lnkd.in/d6spukaC #MedComms #iLuma #PrideMonth #LGBTQ References: 1. Bass B, Nagy H. Cultural Competence in the Care of LGBTQ Patients. [Updated 2023 Nov 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://lnkd.in/dDecFRQe  2. Center for American Progress. Discrimination Prevents LGBTQ People from Accessing Health Care. Published 2018. Accessed May 15, 2024. https://lnkd.in/g8iBbSBN  3. Library of Congress. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Pride Month. Published 2015. Accessed May 15, 2024. https://lnkd.in/duNz3YH 4. Pride Month 2024 - Awareness Days Events Calendar 2024. Awareness Days. Accessed May 15, 2024. https://lnkd.in/dA5CfGE5 5. St. Catherine University. How Discrimination Impacts LGBTQ Healthcare. Published 2021. Accessed May 15, 2024.  https://lnkd.in/gZrq-Hjs 6. UCLA. Adult LGBT Population in the United States. Williams Institute. Published July 2020. Accessed May 15, 2024. https://lnkd.in/dKAbsqz3

This Sunday, June 2, is National Cancer Survivors Day (NCSD). This is a day dedicated to people living with a history of cancer. (1) Learn how you can celebrate NCSD and make a difference!    A cancer survivor is defined as anyone living with a history of cancer, from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life.(1) Although the risk of dying from cancer has declined, the incidence of cancer has increased.(2) In 2020 in the United States, 1,603,844 new cancer cases were reported.(3) You can help make an impact in the following ways (1): 🌸Organize a Celebration of Life in your community   https://lnkd.in/gfxcakyw 🌸Learn about cancer survivorship issues  https://lnkd.in/eSRDsQ3 🌸Raise awareness and educate others    The effects of cancer do not end when treatment does. Let’s spread awareness and advocate for more research to improve the lives of cancer survivors.    #CancerSurvivorsDay #medcomms #iLuma    References:  1. National Cancer Survivors Day. What You Should Know About National Cancer Survivors Day. Accessed May 2, 2024. https://ncsd.org/about-us/ 2. National Cancer Survivors Day. Cancer Survivorship Issues. Accessed May 2, 2024. https://lnkd.in/eSRDsQ3 3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cancer Data and Statistics. Updated June 8, 2023. Accessed May 2, 2024. https://lnkd.in/ef3qY-kJ   

Every 40 seconds, an individual in the U.S. experiences a stroke. Over 795,000 people are affected each year. (1) As we observe Stroke Awareness Month in May, it's crucial to refresh our understanding of the warning signs associated with a stroke. During a stroke, the brain's blood flow becomes compromised, leading to inadequate oxygen supply. (2) Without prompt recognition, irreversible damage may occur. (2) The phrase "time is brain" underscores the importance of early intervention for better outcomes. (2)   By familiarizing yourself with the following warning signs to identify a stroke, you can BE FAST in case of an emergency (3,4): 🧠 B = Balance – Are they losing their balance or feeling dizzy? Are they walking differently? 🧠E = Eyesight – Can they see out of both eyes? Are they having sudden vision loss or blurry vision? 🧠F = Face Drooping – Is one side of the face drooping or numb? Is their smile uneven? 🧠A = Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Does the arm drift downward when they try to lift it? 🧠S = Speech – Is speech slurred? Are they unable to speak or difficult to understand? 🧠T = Time to Call 911 – If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or others, call 911 immediately. Older individuals, males, and those of Black or Hispanic descent, as well as individuals with a family history of stroke, may face a heightened risk of experiencing a stroke. (2) However, by effectively managing conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, it's possible to reduce this risk, and prevent this potentially fatal outcome. (2)   To learn more about strokes and how they can be prevented, visit: https://lnkd.in/dqtgNas   #StrokeAwarenessMonth #iLuma #MedComms References:  1. Stroke Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated May 4, 2023. Accessed April 5, 2024. https://lnkd.in/eeKc8i6U 2. Stroke. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Updated November 28, 2023. Accessed April 5, 2024. https://lnkd.in/eEEh4-7b 3. Stroke Symptoms. American Stroke Association. Accessed April 5, 2024. https://lnkd.in/g7QtEdZ 4. Know the Symptoms of Stroke. StrokeAwareness. Accessed May 14, 2024. https://lnkd.in/gUH6wG5y

National Women’s Health Week (NWHW), observed annually starting on Mother’s Day, serves as a pivotal moment for women to reflect on their health and elevate their overall well-being. (1) Wellness encompasses various dimensions and women are encouraged to prioritize their physical, mental, social, and emotional health. (1)   During this week, consider taking the following steps to foster a healthier lifestyle (1,2): 💛 Engage in physical activity you enjoy, building up to 2.5 hours a week    💛 Schedule your annual physical and other essential health screenings, including pap smears and mammograms  💛 Adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables  💛 Discover constructive methods to cope with stress, such as meditation, yoga, or reading  💛 Establish healthy sleep routines, trying to obtain a minimum of 7 hours of sleep nightly  As we celebrate NWHW, let’s inspire women to take control of their health and well-being.  #NationalWomensHealthWeek #NWHW2024 #iLuma #MedComms References: 1. Celebrating Women’s Health Week! Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published May 11, 2023. Accessed April 5, 2024. https://lnkd.in/gbMKr2t 2. Office on Women’s Health. Forward Focus: Achieving Healthier Futures Together. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Accessed April 5, 2024. https://lnkd.in/g88r9_4Y   

Asthma is a respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the small airways in the lungs. This results in symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. (1) Asthma affects people of all ages globally and is one of the most common non-communicable diseases; unfortunately, asthma is responsible for more than 450000 preventable deaths annually. (2)   Environmental factors such as poor air quality, allergens like pollen and dust mites, and tobacco smoke can trigger asthma symptoms and make the condition worse. (3) If left uncontrolled, asthma can result in missed time at school or work, emergency room visits, and even fatalities. (1)     It is essential to diagnose and manage asthma early to ensure that affected individuals can lead active and healthy lives. To stay up to date on evidence-based practice, check out Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) and be on the lookout for their upcoming GINA 2024 Report for the latest best practices for asthma management.   References  1. World Health Organization. (n.d.-a). Asthma. World Health Organization. https://lnkd.in/dxU9xnk 2. World asthma day 2024 - global initiative for asthma. GINA. (n.d.). https://lnkd.in/gHw_34vu   3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014, December 29). Environmental triggers of asthma: Environmental triggers of asthma. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://lnkd.in/eWtUqFqE #AsthmaAwareness #MedComms #iLuma  

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The iLuma team is showing our support for this important cause by raising awareness about mental health to help reduce social stigmas and provide valuable resources to those in need.  The Worldwide Mental Health Foundation asserts that mental illness is the leading cause of disability worldwide, with research showing that over 950 million people are affected globally. (1) However, around 70% of these individuals will never seek professional help. (2) Recognizing the following key indicators of mental illness can facilitate early intervention and support, which leads to better health outcomes. (3) ◼ Marked changes in personality, eating, or sleeping patterns  ◼ An inability to cope with problems or daily activities  ◼ Feeling of disconnection or withdrawal from normal activities  ◼ Unusual or "magical" thinking  ◼ Excessive anxiety  ◼ Prolonged sadness, depression or apathy  ◼ Thoughts or statements about suicide or harming others  ◼ Substance misuse  ◼ Extreme mood swings  ◼ Excessive anger, hostility or violent behavior    Please visit https://lnkd.in/gEw7g--A to learn more about how you can promote mental health.      References:  1. Foundation WMH. Worldwide Mental Health Foundation. Worldwide Mental Health Foundation. Accessed March 17, 2024. https://lnkd.in/g3a_aXEM 2. Henderson C, Evans-Lacko S, Thornicroft G. Mental Illness Stigma, Help Seeking, and Public Health Programs. American Journal of Public Health. 2013;103(5):777-780. https://lnkd.in/gjqjsez 3. Mayo Clinic. Mental health: What’s normal, what’s not. Mayo Clinic. Published December 14, 2021. https://lnkd.in/eYSUMRu #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #iLuma #Medcomms

#worldimmunizationweek #humanlypossible #medcomms