February is National Cancer Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of cancer prevention and early detection. This year, we are highlighting the latest advancements in cancer research and encouraging everyone to take proactive steps towards reducing their cancer risk.

Advancements in Cancer Research

Recent research has uncovered promising developments in cancer prevention and treatment. Scientists at the Salk Institute have discovered that communication between telomeres and mitochondria can trigger inflammation, which helps eliminate cells that could become cancerous. This discovery opens new possibilities for preventing and treating cancer by targeting these pathways.

Additionally, a compound developed by Salk researchers, FexD, has shown potential in preventing and reversing intestinal inflammation in mice, which could lead to new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

Taking Action

During National Cancer Prevention Month, we encourage everyone to take proactive steps towards cancer prevention:

Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quitting can significantly reduce your cancer risk. Seek support from friends, family, and healthcare providers.
Regular Screenings: Early detection is key to successful treatment. Schedule regular cancer screenings based on your age, gender, and risk factors.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Support Others: Encourage your loved ones to get screened and provide support in their cancer prevention journey.

By raising awareness and taking action, we can make a significant impact in the fight against cancer. Let's work together to create a healthier future for everyone.

For more information and resources, visit the Prevent Cancer Foundation's website at preventcancer.org.

How HMO Works: The Referral Process

Referrals are an important part of saving money when you have an HMO. You’ll want to know when you need a referral and how to use your HMO benefits.

When you sign up for an HMO, your first step is to pick a primary care physician (PCP) to manage your care. You may already have a PCP, such as your family doctor. A child’s pediatrician and an OB/Gyn can also act as their PCP. Read more →

Insurance Basics: Copay vs. Coinsurance

While premiums go toward the total cost of the care you receive, health care costs add up to more than your premiums cover.

To keep premiums lower, plans typically have a deductible that you pay if you get care. A deductible is the amount you have to pay before the health plan starts paying for some of your covered services. For instance, if your deductible is $1,000, your plan won't cover some services until you've paid $1,000.

In addition to your monthly premium and deductible, copays and coinsurance are the other out-of-pocket amounts you may pay when you get care. Read more →

Managing Diabetes? You Have a Partner Who Can Help

If you’re living with diabetes, think of your primary care physician (PCP) as your partner in taking charge of your health. You can work together to successfully manage your diabetes so you can stay healthier.

It’s important to get the regular tests your doctor says are right for you and to always know your numbers. The U.S. National Library of Medicine says routine health checkups and tests give you a chance to:

Ask health questions.
Learn more about your diabetes.
Find out what you need to do to manage your diabetes and keep your blood sugar in your target range. That includes making healthy food choices and getting some exercise each day. Read more →

PrudentRx Copay Program

PrudentRx is integrated with CVS Specialty Pharmacy Operations, as a third-party, to ensure a seamless premium member experience. Our partnership with PrudentRx makes it possible for you to receive covered specialty medications at $0 out-of-pocket cost when you fill your prescription at a CVS Specialty Pharmacy or other participating specialty pharmacies.

PrudentRx will work with you to obtain $0 out-of-pocket coverage for select high-cost specialty limited distribution drugs. PrudentRx will connect you with drug manufacturers who provide copay card assistance as well as guide you through the copay card renewal process when necessary. Even if your specialty medication has no copay card, your out-of-pocket cost will be $0 if you are enrolled in the PrudentRx Copay Program.

For additional information about the PrudentRx Copay Program, please contact PrudentRx directly at 1 (800) 578-4403, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., EST., to speak with a PrudentRx Member Advocate (English, Spanish, and additional language lines available)

Recipe of the Month

Cajun Beef Chili

1 tsp Olive oil
1 large Onion, chopped
3 medium cloves Garlic, chopped
4.5 oz. diced Green Chiles, drained
2 TBSP Cajun seasoning
1 lb. 95% lean Ground Beef
1 (28-oz.) can peeled Italian Tomatoes
1 cup fat-free Salsa
1/4 cup Chili powder
30 oz. Kidney beans, drained

Directions:

In a large nonstick saucepan, heat the oil. Add the onion and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic, green chiles, and Cajun seasoning and cook for about 1 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the beef and cook for about 8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon.
Add the tomatoes with their liquid, salsa, chili powder, and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until the chili thickens slightly, about 1 hour. Stir in the beans and cook until heated through.

Serving Size:
Service size: 1 cup

Nutritional Information:
293 calories, 6.5 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 2,315 mg sodium, 35 g carbohydrate, 9 g sugar, 11 g fiber, 26 g protein

Recipe Source:
Guest Recipe provided by Weight Watchers

Help for Stressed-Out Parents

Parenting is rewarding, but it’s stressful, too. Guiding the growth and development of another human being from birth to adulthood isn’t for the faint of heart.

Eons ago, it was a daily struggle for our ancestors to simply keep their offspring alive. An uncontrolled illness or accident could easily cut a child’s life short. Food, shelter, warmth and safety were hard to come by. Read more →