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Church & Dwight webcasts presentation at the 2023 Barclays Global Consumer Staples Conference

EWING, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE: CHD) will present at the 2023 Barclays Global Consumer Staples Conference on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023 at 11:15 a.m. ET. A link to the broadcast will be provided through the Investors section of Church & Dwight’s website at http://investor.churchdwight.com/investors/news-events.

 

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. manufactures and markets a wide range of personal care, household and specialty products under the ARM & HAMMER brand name and other well-known trademarks.

 

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (NYSE: CHD) founded in 1846, is the leading U.S. producer of sodium bicarbonate, popularly known as baking soda. The Company manufactures and markets a wide range of personal care, household, and specialty products under recognized brand names such as ARM & HAMMER®, TROJAN®, OXICLEAN®, SPINBRUSH®, FIRST RESPONSE®, NAIR®, ORAJEL®, XTRA®, L’IL CRITTERS® and VITAFUSION®, BATISTE®, WATERPIK®, ZICAM®, THERABREATH® and HERO®. These fourteen key brands represent approximately 85% of the Company’s products sales. For more information, visit the Company’s website.

 

Contacts

Rick Dierker

609-806-1900

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Healthcare Lifestyle Science

20 Ways to navigate chronic illness adversities for a fulfilling & rewarding life

Organ transplant recipient details ways to live a joyful life amid, and despite, sustained long-term adversity

 

Navigating chronic illness can present more than its fair share of challenges, but with the right strategies and mindset, it is possible to lead a fulfilling and rewarding life. It is expected and perfectly okay to have difficult moments and turbulent emotions throughout sustained periods of adversity.

 

Finding joy doesn’t mean ignoring the challenges that inevitably present but rather finding ways to thrive despite them. It means being patient with yourself, and remembering that even small, singular steps can ultimately lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being and joy in life.

 

According to two-time kidney transplant recipient (who has lived with kidney disease for one-third of his life) Gregory S. Works, author of “Triumph: Life on the Other Side of Trials, Transplants and Transformation,” here are some tactical ways to achieve that:

 

Acceptance
Accepting your condition is the first step towards effectively managing it. Acknowledge that your life might be different from what you initially imagined, but there are still many possibilities for happiness and fulfillment.

 

Build a support network
Surround yourself with understanding and caring individuals – family, friends, or support groups – who can provide emotional support and practical assistance when needed.

 

Educate yourself
Learn as much as you can about your condition from reliable sources. Understanding your illness empowers you to make informed decisions about your treatment and lifestyle choices.

 

Set realistic goals
Adjust your goals to align with your current capabilities. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how small, as each step counts towards progress.

 

Manage stress and practice self-care
Chronic illness can be emotionally taxing. Practice techniques that experts have proven to reduce stress such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, deep breathing or prayer to improve your overall mental well-being. It’s also helpful to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as hobbies, exercise, spending time in nature or reading.

 

Advocate for yourself
Be an active participant in your healthcare journey. Communicate openly with your healthcare providers, ask questions, and express your concerns to ensure you receive the best possible care.

 

Adapt and modify with positive routines
Be flexible in adapting to your changing needs. Modify your daily routines, work arrangements, or social activities to accommodate your health requirements. Establish a daily routine that includes positive habits and activities. Structure can provide a sense of stability and control, even during challenging times.

 

Celebrate small victories
Recognize and appreciate the small victories and progress you make each day. Finding joy in small moments can bring immense satisfaction.

 

Find meaning and purpose
Find activities that give you a sense of purpose and joy. Pursue hobbies, volunteering, or creative outlets that bring fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment.

 

Limit negative influences
Cultivate a positive mindset and focus on the aspects of life that bring joy and happiness. Surround yourself with positive influences and try to let go of negativity. Minimize exposure to negative news, social media, or toxic relationships that may contribute to feelings of stress and sadness. Surround yourself with positive and uplifting content and people.

 

Practice gratitude
Appreciate the things you still have and the experiences you can enjoy. Gratitude can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have.

 

Stay connected
Even if your condition limits your physical abilities, technology allows for connections. Maintain social relationships through phone calls, video chats, or social media.

 

Mindfulness and presence
Practice being present in the moment and cultivate mindfulness. Engage fully in the activities you enjoy, even if they are simple. Mindfulness can help you appreciate the small joys that may often go unnoticed.

 

Focus on what you can control
While some aspects of your life may be beyond your control, focus on the things you can influence. Concentrate your energy on taking positive actions rather than dwelling on what you cannot change.

 

Cultivate resilience
Build resilience by reframing challenges as opportunities for growth. Learn from difficult experiences and use them to become stronger and more resilient.

 

Embrace imperfection
Accept that life is imperfect, and setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Be kind to yourself and avoid self-criticism when facing challenges.

 

Engage in acts of kindness
Helping others and performing acts of kindness can be a source of joy and fulfillment. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference, both for others and yourself.

 

Practice humor
Humor can be a powerful tool to cope with adversity. Find moments of laughter and joy, even in difficult situations.

 

Visualize a bright future
Allow yourself to envision a better future, filled with joy and happiness. Visualization can help create a positive outlook and motivate you to work towards your dreams.

 

Be patient with yourself
Living with a chronic illness can be frustrating. Remember to be patient with yourself and treat yourself with the same compassion you would show to others.

 

“Challenges are inevitable, but the decisions we make—whether to face them or flee—can profoundly impact our ability to overcome or be overtaken by trials, pain, and suffering in our lives,” Works says.

 

Everyone’s journey with chronic illness is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s crucial to find a personalized approach that suits your needs and helps you live a fulfilling life despite the challenges you face.

 

About the expert
Gregory S. Works is a two-time kidney transplant recipient who has lived with kidney disease for one-third of his life. As an author, Gregory counsels others on this disease, providing advice on how to approach getting a transplant, dietary considerations, managing life during COVID, post-transplant living, and how faith can be the cornerstone of addressing this challenge. He resides in the Washington, DC Metro Area. He may be reached online at https://triumphwithgreg.com

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AM Best affirms credit ratings of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company and most of its subsidiaries

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — #insurance — AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A++ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “aa+” (Superior) of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) (domiciled in Springfield, MA) and its life/health subsidiaries, C.M. Life Insurance Company and MML Bay State Life Insurance Company (both domiciled in Enfield, CT). Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed the Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings (Long-Term IRs) of “aa-” (Superior) on the surplus notes of MassMutual and “aa+” (Superior) on notes issued under the funding agreement-backed securities programs of MassMutual Global Funding II. The outlook of these Credit Ratings (rating) is stable. (See below for a detailed listing of the Long-Term IRs and Short-Term Issue Credit Rating).

 

Additionally, AM Best has upgraded the FSR to A++ (Superior) from A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term ICR to “aa+” (Superior) from “aa-” (Superior) of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company (MassMutual Ascend) and Annuity Investors Life Insurance Company (ALIC) (collectively referred to as MassMutual Ascend Life Group). The outlook of the Long-Term ICR has been revised to stable from positive while the outlook of the FSR is stable. Furthermore, AM Best has affirmed the FSR of B++ (Good) and the Long-Term ICR of “bbb+” (Good) of Manhattan National Life Insurance Company (Manhattan Life). The outlook of these ratings is stable. These companies are domiciled in Cincinnati, OH.

 

The ratings of MassMutual reflects its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its strong operating performance, very favorable business profile and very strong enterprise risk management (ERM).

 

MassMutual’s risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), is assessed at the strongest level, which supports the company’s ability to support its insurance, investment and business risks. The company’s capital levels generally increased over the years due to organic earnings growth and strong investment income. MassMutual holds elevated investment allocations in below investment grade bonds and Schedule BA assets, but these are managed effectively through MassMutual’s Barings investment subsidiary, and are monitored with good asset liability management capabilities and robust stress testing. Financial flexibility is supported by the organization’s proven ability to access the capital markets. MassMutual ensures that sufficient liquidity is on hand to meet sudden, unanticipated needs, which is monitored and stress-tested on a regular basis. MassMutual’s leverage ratios remain well within AM Best’s guidelines.

 

MassMutual has leading market positions in life insurance, fixed and fixed-indexed annuities, pensions and institutional asset management. The company’s business profile has shifted in recent years with more focus put on whole life, fixed annuity, pension risk transfer and institutional asset management. AM Best assesses MassMutual’s ERM program’s capabilities as strong relative to its risk profile. Proposed initiatives are reviewed in terms of its impact on capital and surplus, as well as how economic capital modeling is utilized. AM Best expects Mass Mutual to continue investing in technology and digital innovation further across all distribution platforms, and enhance its ERM and innovation programs going forward.

 

The ratings of MassMutual Ascend reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, favorable business profile and very strong ERM.

 

The rating upgrades reflect the progress of integrating MassMutual Ascend into the MassMutual enterprise, and AM Best expects the company to benefit from the processes, management and distribution channels that MassMutual can offer going forward.

 

MassMutual Ascend’s balance sheet strength is assessed as very strong. The company’s risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by BCAR, is at the “very strong” level and supported by consistently strong earnings and a 2022 coinsurance arrangement with Martello Re Limited. The company’s invested assets are managed by an affiliate, Barings. While invested assets are of good credit quality, AM Best noted increased allocations to structured securities, private placements and NAIC class 2 bonds, similar to that of its parent company, MassMutual. Nearly all of MassMutual Ascend’s reserves are interest-sensitive.

 

MassMutual Ascend’s operating performance has been supported by favorable statutory earnings, although results may fluctuate due to the change in the fair value of derivatives held on its fixed-indexed annuities. Premium trends have been stable over the long term, although they increased in 2022.

 

AM Best assesses MassMutual Ascend’s business profile as positive, as the company is benefitting from MassMutual’s business profile and resources. MassMutual Ascend’s ERM is assessed as very strong as it has been integrated into MassMutual’s ERM program.

 

The ratings of Manhattan Life reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM.

 

Manhattan Life’s book of business is in run-off mode, with most of its liabilities reinsured through highly rated reinsurers. The company’s risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by BCAR, is assessed at the strongest level, and the parent company has demonstrated that they will support the life company with capital contributions when needed. Manhattan Life’s earnings trends have been volatile, as a small increase in life claims can have a relatively large impact on results. Partially mitigating factors include its modest portion of business relative to the enterprise and the support of its parent.

 

The following Long-Term IRs have been assigned with stable outlooks:

MassMutual Global Funding II — “aa+” (Superior) program rating

— “aa+” (Superior) to the $500 million, 5.05% senior secured medium term notes, due June 14, 2028

— “aa+” (Superior) to the $500 million, 3.75% senior secured medium term notes, due Jan. 19, 2030

— “aa+” (Superior) to the $750 million, 4.5% senior secured medium term notes, due April 10, 2026

— “aa+” (Superior) to the $300 million, 3.98% senior secured medium term notes, due July 10, 2026

— “aa+” (Superior) to the $750 million, 5.05% senior secured medium term notes, due Dec. 7, 2027

— “aa+” (Superior) to the CHF 215 million, 2.65% senior secured medium term notes, due May 3, 2028

— “aa+” (Superior) to the $600 million, 1.2% senior secured medium term notes, due July 16, 2026

— “aa+” (Superior) to the NOK 1 billion, 3.98% senior secured medium term notes, due Feb. 3, 2031

The following Short-Term IR has been affirmed:

Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company—

— AMB-1+ (Strongest) on commercial paper program

The following Long-Term IRs have been affirmed with stable outlooks:

MassMutual Global Funding II — “aa+” (Superior) program rating

— “aa+” (Superior) on all outstanding notes issued under the program

Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company—

— “aa-” (Superior) on $250 million 7.625% surplus notes, due 2023 (of which $188 million remains outstanding)

— “aa-” (Superior) on $100 million 7.5% surplus notes, due 2024 (of which $75 million remains outstanding)

— “aa-” (Superior) on $250 million 5.625% surplus notes, due 2033 (of which $193 million remains outstanding)

— “aa-” (Superior) on $750 million 8.875% surplus notes, due 2039 (of which $129 million remains outstanding)

— “aa-” (Superior) on $400 million 5.375% surplus notes, due 2041 (of which $263 million remains outstanding)

— “aa-” (Superior) on $500 million 4.5% surplus notes, due 2065 (of which $254 million remains outstanding)

— “aa-” (Superior) on $475 million 4.9% surplus notes, due 2077

— “aa-” (Superior) on $838.5 million 3.729% surplus notes, due 2070

— “aa-” (Superior) on $700 million 3.375% surplus notes, due 2050

— “aa-” (Superior) on $500 million 5.672% surplus notes, due 2052

— “aa-” (Superior) on $675 million 3.2% surplus notes, due 2061

— “aa-” (Superior) on $800 million 5.077% surplus notes, due 2069

 

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2023 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contacts

Louis Silvers
Senior Financial Analyst
+1 908 882 2316
louis.silvers@ambest.com

Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com

Jacqalene Lentz
Director
+1 908 882 2011
jacqalene.lentz@ambest.com

Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com

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Retrospective observational study assessing real-world clinical impact of switching or continuing Eliquis® or Rivaroxaban presented at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2023

Switching from Eliquis (apixaban) to rivaroxaban in Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF) patients was associated with a higher risk of stroke/systemic embolism (S/SE) and major bleeding (MB) than those who continued Eliquis

 

PRINCETON, N.J. & NEW YORK — (BUSINESS WIRE) — $BMY #ATHENS — The Bristol Myers Squibb-Pfizer (BMS NYSE: BMY) – (Pfizer NYSE: PFE) Alliance on Friday, presented results from ATHENS, a retrospective real-world data study, at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress 2023 showing that switching from Eliquis® (apixaban) to rivaroxaban in Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF) patients was associated with a higher risk of stroke/systemic embolism (S/SE) and major bleeding (MB) than those who continued Eliquis.

 

“Although some NVAF patients switch direct oral anticoagulants in real-world clinical practice, either for medical or non-medical reasons, there hasn’t been a lot of information gathered on the clinical outcomes of those switches,” said Steve Deitelzweig, MD, MMM, FACC, SFHM, FACP, RVT, System Chairman for Hospital Medicine, Ochsner Health System. “The study results provide insights about the real-world risk of stroke and major bleeding associated with switching from apixaban to rivaroxaban in patients with NVAF.”

 

This retrospective study identified NVAF patients who initiated Eliquis or rivaroxaban between 01 January 2013 and 31 December 2021 using Optum’s de-identified Clinformatics® Data Mart database. There were 167,868 Eliquis initiators and 65,888 rivaroxaban initiators who met study criteria. Using propensity score matching (PSM), 2,900 patients who switched from Eliquis to rivaroxaban were matched to 14,500 patients who continued Eliquis, and 2,873 patients who switched from rivaroxaban to Eliquis were matched to 14,365 patients who continued rivaroxaban.

 

“Data collected in real-world settings can enhance patient care. By gathering insights from everyday clinical practice, we can better understand how Eliquis is used and its impact on patients’ lives,” said Narinder Bhalla, MD, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Medical, Head of Cardiovascular and Established Brands at Bristol Myers Squibb. “This real-world data provides pragmatic information to help clinicians manage the care of their patients.”

 

In this study, switching from Eliquis to rivaroxaban was associated with a higher risk of S/SE (Hazard Ratio (HR):1.99, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.38-2.88) and MB (HR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.46-2.23) than those who continued Eliquis. Additionally, switching from rivaroxaban to Eliquis was associated with a similar risk of S/SE (HR:0.74, 95% CI: 0.45-1.22) and a lower risk of MB (HR:0.58, 95%CI: 0.44-0.76) compared to those who continued rivaroxaban. It is important to note that anticoagulants, including Eliquis, increase the risk of bleeding and can cause serious, potentially fatal bleeding. Please see important safety information below for Eliquis, including BOXED WARNINGS.

 

Real-world data have the potential to supplement randomized, controlled clinical trial data by providing additional information about how a medicine performs in routine medical practice. Real-world data analyses, however, have important limitations. Observational real-world studies can only evaluate association and not causality, and despite the use of methods to address differences due to measured variables, false associations may still be present. The source and type of data used may limit the generalizability of the results, and varied outcomes are possible.

 

In the ATHENS study, treatment assignments were based on pharmacy claims and actual drug exposure is unknown. Additionally, reasons for switching are not known and sample size for those who switched is much lower than those who continued treatment. Dosing criteria were not evaluated and impacts of drug dosing on outcomes were not assessed. Due to these limitations, real-world data analyses are not used as evidence to validate the efficacy and/or safety of a treatment.

 

About ATHENS

The ATHENS study was designed to assess the risk of stroke/systemic embolism (S/SE) and major bleeding (MB) among Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation (NVAF) patients who switched from Eliquis (apixaban) to rivaroxaban or switched from rivaroxaban to Eliquis instead of continuing initial treatment. This retrospective study identified NVAF patients who initiated treatment between 01 January 2013 and 31 December 2021 using a large U.S. administrative claims database. There were 167,868 Eliquis initiators and 65,888 rivaroxaban initiators included in the study.

 

Within both the Eliquis initiators and rivaroxaban initiators cohorts, patients were divided into two groups and compared: switchers to a different direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) within 30 days before or 90 days after discontinuation of the initial DOAC, and continuers, or patients who continued receiving the initial DOAC. The switch date was the index date for those who switched while, for those who continued, a hypothetic index date was randomly assigned based on the distribution of the time from initial DOAC prescription to the switch date in the switchers group. Two final cohorts (switchers and continuers) within Eliquis initiators and rivaroxaban initiators were further propensity score matched (PSM) based on pre-index characteristics using a 1:5 ratio.

 

About Eliquis® (apixaban)

Eliquis® is an oral selective Factor Xa inhibitor. By inhibiting Factor Xa, a key blood clotting protein, Eliquis decreases thrombin generation and blood clot formation. Eliquis is approved for multiple indications in the U.S. based on efficacy and safety data from multiple Phase 3 clinical trials. The approval of Eliquis for stroke risk reduction in patients with NVAF is based on data from the Phase 3 ARISTOTLE and AVERROES studies of Eliquis in patients with NVAF. The approval of Eliquis for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), and for the reduction in the risk of recurrent DVT and PE following initial therapy, is based on data from the global AMPLIFY and AMPLIFY-EXT studies. U.S. FDA-Approved Indications for Eliquis: Eliquis is a prescription medicine indicated in the U.S. to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with NVAF; for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which may lead to pulmonary embolism (PE), in patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery; for the treatment of DVT and PE; and to reduce the risk of recurrent DVT and PE, following initial therapy.

 

Eliquis Important Safety Information

Indications

Eliquis is indicated to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.

Eliquis is indicated for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which may lead to pulmonary embolism (PE), in patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery.

Eliquis is indicated for the treatment of DVT and PE, and to reduce the risk of recurrent DVT and PE following initial therapy.

 

Important Safety Information

WARNING: (A) PREMATURE DISCONTINUATION OF ELIQUIS INCREASES THE RISK OF THROMBOTIC EVENTS, (B) SPINAL/EPIDURAL HEMATOMA

(A) Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including Eliquis, increases the risk of thrombotic events. If anticoagulation with Eliquis is discontinued for a reason other than pathological bleeding or completion of a course of therapy, consider coverage with another anticoagulant.

 

(B) Epidural or spinal hematomas may occur in patients treated with Eliquis who are receiving neuraxial anesthesia or undergoing spinal puncture. These hematomas may result in long-term or permanent paralysis. Consider these risks when scheduling patients for spinal procedures. Factors that can increase the risk of developing epidural or spinal hematomas in these patients include:

  • use of indwelling epidural catheters
  • concomitant use of other drugs that affect hemostasis, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), platelet inhibitors, other anticoagulants
  • a history of traumatic or repeated epidural or spinal punctures
  • a history of spinal deformity or spinal surgery
  • optimal timing between the administration of Eliquis and neuraxial procedures is not known

 

Monitor patients frequently for signs and symptoms of neurological impairment. If neurological compromise is noted, urgent treatment is necessary.

 

Consider the benefits and risks before neuraxial intervention in patients anticoagulated or to be anticoagulated.

 

CONTRAINDICATIONS

  • Active pathological bleeding
  • Severe hypersensitivity reaction to Eliquis (e.g., anaphylactic reactions)

 

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTION

  • Increased Risk of Thrombotic Events after Premature Discontinuation: Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including Eliquis, in the absence of adequate alternative anticoagulation increases the risk of thrombotic events. An increased rate of stroke was observed during the transition from Eliquis to warfarin in clinical trials in atrial fibrillation patients. If Eliquis is discontinued for a reason other than pathological bleeding or completion of a course of therapy, consider coverage with another anticoagulant.
  • Bleeding Risk: Eliquis increases the risk of bleeding and can cause serious, potentially fatal, bleeding.
    • Concomitant use of drugs affecting hemostasis increases the risk of bleeding, including aspirin and other antiplatelet agents, other anticoagulants, heparin, thrombolytic agents, SSRIs, SNRIs, and NSAIDs.
    • Advise patients of signs and symptoms of blood loss and to report them immediately or go to an emergency room. Discontinue Eliquis in patients with active pathological hemorrhage.
    • The anticoagulant effect of apixaban can be expected to persist for at least 24 hours after the last dose (i.e., about two half-lives). An agent to reverse the anti-factor Xa activity of apixaban is available. Please visit www.andexxa.com for more information on availability of a reversal agent.
  • Spinal/Epidural Anesthesia or Puncture: Patients treated with Eliquis undergoing spinal/epidural anesthesia or puncture may develop an epidural or spinal hematoma which can result in long-term or permanent paralysis.

 

The risk of these events may be increased by the postoperative use of indwelling epidural catheters or the concomitant use of medicinal products affecting hemostasis. Indwelling epidural or intrathecal catheters should not be removed earlier than 24 hours after the last administration of Eliquis. The next dose of Eliquis should not be administered earlier than 5 hours after the removal of the catheter. The risk may also be increased by traumatic or repeated epidural or spinal puncture. If traumatic puncture occurs, delay the administration of Eliquis for 48 hours.

 

Monitor patients frequently and if neurological compromise is noted, urgent diagnosis and treatment is necessary. Physicians should consider the potential benefit versus the risk of neuraxial intervention in Eliquis patients.

  • Prosthetic Heart Valves: The safety and efficacy of Eliquis have not been studied in patients with prosthetic heart valves and is not recommended in these patients.
  • Acute PE in Hemodynamically Unstable Patients or Patients who Require Thrombolysis or Pulmonary Embolectomy: Initiation of Eliquis is not recommended as an alternative to unfractionated heparin for the initial treatment of patients with PE who present with hemodynamic instability or who may receive thrombolysis or pulmonary embolectomy.
  • Increased Risk of Thrombosis in Patients with Triple Positive Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS): Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs), including Eliquis, are not recommended for use in patients with triple-positive APS. For patients with APS (especially those who are triple positive [positive for lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, and anti–beta 2-glycoprotein I antibodies]), treatment with DOACs has been associated with increased rates of recurrent thrombotic events compared with vitamin K antagonist therapy.

 

ADVERSE REACTIONS

  • The most common and most serious adverse reactions reported with Eliquis were related to bleeding.

 

TEMPORARY INTERRUPTION FOR SURGERY AND OTHER INTERVENTIONS

  • Eliquis should be discontinued at least 48 hours prior to elective surgery or invasive procedures with a moderate or high risk of unacceptable or clinically significant bleeding. Eliquis should be discontinued at least 24 hours prior to elective surgery or invasive procedures with a low risk of bleeding or where the bleeding would be noncritical in location and easily controlled. Bridging anticoagulation during the 24 to 48 hours after stopping Eliquis and prior to the intervention is not generally required. Eliquis should be restarted after the surgical or other procedures as soon as adequate hemostasis has been established.

 

DRUG INTERACTIONS

  • Combined P-gp and Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) increase exposure to apixaban and increase the risk of bleeding. For patients receiving Eliquis doses of 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily, reduce the dose of Eliquis by 50% when Eliquis is coadministered with drugs that are combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, or ritonavir). In patients already taking 2.5 mg twice daily, avoid coadministration of Eliquis with combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.

 

Clarithromycin

Although clarithromycin is a combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, pharmacokinetic data suggest that no dose adjustment is necessary with concomitant administration with Eliquis.

  • Combined P-gp and Strong CYP3A4 Inducers: Avoid concomitant use of Eliquis with combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, St. John’s wort) because such drugs will decrease exposure to apixaban.
  • Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Agents: Coadministration of antiplatelet agents, fibrinolytics, heparin, aspirin, and chronic NSAID use increases the risk of bleeding. APPRAISE-2, a placebo-controlled clinical trial of apixaban in high-risk post-acute coronary syndrome patients treated with aspirin or the combination of aspirin and clopidogrel, was terminated early due to a higher rate of bleeding with apixaban compared to placebo.

 

PREGNANCY

  • The limited available data on Eliquis use in pregnant women are insufficient to inform drug-associated risks of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse developmental outcomes. Treatment may increase the risk of bleeding during pregnancy and delivery, and in the fetus and neonate.
    • Labor or delivery: Eliquis use during labor or delivery in women who are receiving neuraxial anesthesia may result in epidural or spinal hematomas.
    • Consider use of a shorter acting anticoagulant as delivery approaches.

 

LACTATION

  • Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Eliquis.

 

FEMALES AND MALES OF REPRODUCTIVE POTENTIAL

  • Females of reproductive potential requiring anticoagulation should discuss pregnancy planning with their physician. The risk of clinically significant uterine bleeding, potentially requiring gynecological surgical interventions, identified with oral anticoagulants including Eliquis should be assessed in these patients and those with abnormal uterine bleeding.

 

Please see U.S. FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION, including Boxed WARNINGS, available at www.bms.com.

 

About the Bristol Myers Squibb-Pfizer Collaboration

The Bristol Myers Squibb-Pfizer Alliance (the Alliance) is committed to driving education and awareness about atrial fibrillation and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or pulmonary embolism (PE). With long- standing cardiovascular leadership, global scale and expertise in this field, the Alliance strives to implement global, research-driven approaches to illuminate and address the unmet needs around strokes related to non-valvular atrial fibrillation, which are often fatal or debilitating. Through collaborations with non-profit organizations, the Alliance aims to provide patients, healthcare professionals and decision makers with the information they need to understand and take appropriate action on risk factors associated with stroke and other cardiovascular conditions.

 

About Bristol Myers Squibb

Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit us at BMS.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.

 

About Pfizer Inc.: Breakthroughs That Change Patients’ Lives

At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines.

Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world’s premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 170 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.Pfizer.com. In addition, to learn more, please visit us on www.Pfizer.com and follow us on Twitter at @Pfizer and @Pfizer News, LinkedIn, YouTube and like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/Pfizer.

 

Bristol Myers Squibb Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding, among other things, the research, development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. All statements that are not statements of historical facts are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about our future financial results, goals, plans and objectives and involve inherent risks, assumptions and uncertainties, including internal or external factors that could delay, divert or change any of them in the next several years, that are difficult to predict, may be beyond our control and could cause our future financial results, goals, plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the statements. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the many risks and uncertainties that affect Bristol Myers Squibb’s business and market, particularly those identified in the cautionary statement and risk factors discussion in Bristol Myers Squibb’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, as updated by our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this document are made only as of the date of this document and except as otherwise required by applicable law, Bristol Myers Squibb undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

 

Pfizer Disclosure Notice

The information contained in this release is as of August 25, 2023. Pfizer assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this release as the result of new information or future events or developments.

 

This release contains forward-looking information about Eliquis (apixaban), including its potential benefits, that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including the ability to meet anticipated clinical endpoints, commencement and/or completion dates for our clinical trials, regulatory submission dates, regulatory approval dates and/or launch dates, as well as the possibility of unfavorable new clinical or other data and further analyses of existing clinical or other data; the risk that clinical trial data are subject to differing interpretations and assessments by regulatory authorities; whether regulatory authorities will be satisfied with the design of and results from our clinical studies; decisions by regulatory authorities impacting labeling, manufacturing processes, safety and/or other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of Eliquis; uncertainties regarding commercial success; uncertainties regarding the impact of COVID-19 on Pfizer’s business, operations and financial results; and competitive developments.

 

A further description of risks and uncertainties can be found in Pfizer’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and in its subsequent reports on Form 10-Q, including in the sections thereof captioned “Risk Factors” and “Forward-Looking Information and Factors That May Affect Future Results,” as well as in its subsequent reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov and www.pfizer.com.

 

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Contacts

Media Inquiries:

Bristol Myers Squibb

Media Inquiries: media@bms.com
Investors: investor.relations@bms.com

Pfizer Inc.

Media: PfizerMediaRelations@Pfizer.com +1 (212) 733-1226

Investors: IR@Pfizer.com +1 (212) 733-4848

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Environment Healthcare Lifestyle Local News Science

Mercer County Park Commission takes nature-based approach to new parking lot

‘Green infrastructure’ gentler on environment, mitigates runoff

A rolling stone gathers no moss.

But rolling stormwater, called stormwater runoff, can gather much worse than moss, including trash, oil, sediment and other troublesome pollutants. And to make matters worse, without the proper infrastructure, the debris often goes straight into our lakes, streams and rivers.

With this in mind, the Mercer County Park Commission found an opportunity to do its part in mitigating the effects of stormwater runoff by designing “green infrastructure” into a parking lot repaving project at John A. Roebling Memorial Parkin Hamilton. The park is home to the Tulpehaking Nature Center, which houses the Park Commission’s Environmental Education Department.

“As the Park Commission and Mercer County invest in improvements to our park system, we strive to do so in an environmentally conscious way,” said Park Commission Executive Director Aaron T. Watson. “We know that as stewards of over 10,000 acres of open space in the county, our decisions should improve both the quality of life for residents and the environment as a whole.”

Roebling Park is located within the 3,000-acre Abbott Marshlands, the northernmost freshwater tidal marsh in the Delaware River watershed. The stormwater from its parking lot drains directly into Spring Lake and the park’s surrounding freshwater tidal marsh.

 

The Abbott Marshlands attracts rare wildlife such as river otter, American eel, and bald eagle. It is also an important stopover for migratory birds along the Atlantic flyway. Unmanaged stormwater runoff can negatively impact water quality and the local ecosystem, create harmful algal blooms, and increase the possibility of flooding.

The stormwater runoff has also eroded portions of the existing parking lot and has made Spring Lake less appealing for fishing and boating.

 

Improvements at the Spring Lake access area are scheduled to begin in early September.

The plan includes several rain gardens, a green infrastructure option that is both beautiful and effective in form and function. Rain gardens not only absorb rainwater, but they also filter out pollutants and provide food and shelter for local wildlife. More importantly, the rain gardens at the Spring Lake parking lot will capture stormwater runoff before it flows into the lake.

Access to Roebling Park from Sewell Avenue in Hamilton will be temporarily closed to the public during construction, but will be reopened when the project is complete.

Various native shrubs, grasses and perennial wildflowers will be planted in the garden, including northern bayberry, swamp milkweed, and woodland phlox. The colorful blooms amongst the grasses will add to the visual appeal of the garden for both people and pollinators.

This is a pilot project, which is being funded through the Mercer County Open Space Trust Fund. The results will inform plans for future upgrades at other park facilities, as the Mercer County Park Commission continues to effectively steward its numerous parks and recreation facilities.

For more information on rain gardens and how you could make your own, go to http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/rginfo.html

Categories
Business Healthcare Lifestyle Special/Sponsored Content

Johnson & Johnson to participate in the Morgan Stanley 21st Annual Global Healthcare Conference

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) will participate in the Morgan Stanley 21st Annual Global Healthcare Conference at the Sheraton New York Hotel in New York on Wednesday, Sept. 13. , where Joaquin Duato, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer and John Reed, Executive Vice President Pharmaceuticals R&D, will represent the Company in a session scheduled at 10:10 a.m. ET.

 

This conference call will be available to investors and other interested parties by visiting the Johnson & Johnson website at www.investor.jnj.com.

 

A webcast and podcast replay will be available approximately 48 hours after the live webcast.

 

Contacts

Investor Contact:
investor-relations@its.jnj.com

Media Contact:
media-relations@its.jnj.com

Categories
Business Culture Healthcare Lifestyle Science

New 2022 data from The Aesthetic Society reveals a surge in nonsurgical procedures, contributing to a 14% overall increase in aesthetic procedures

Findings demonstrate Americans spent over $11.8 billion on aesthetic procedures, up 2% from 2021

 

The Aesthetic Society, the leading authority on aesthetic plastic surgery, has just released its annual Aesthetic Plastic Surgery National Databank report for 2022, highlighting significant trends in the field of aesthetic plastic surgery.

 

The data showcases a remarkable 14% increase in total aesthetic procedures, largely attributed to the soaring popularity of nonsurgical procedures, which witnessed a 23% jump last year. In an unprecedented milestone, the 2022 data was sourced from the same 200 plastic surgery practices across the United States, providing consistent quarterly data between 2019 and 2022.

 

“The landscape of aesthetic plastic surgery is undergoing a transformation as revealed by The Aesthetic Society’s 2022 report,” says Melinda Haws, MD, President of The Aesthetic Society.

 

“With nonsurgical procedures witnessing a surge and surgical procedures still accounting for 70% of revenue, the industry is moving towards a future defined by dynamic trends. This showcases our industry’s ability to embrace innovation and meet evolving patient preferences. As we journey forward, The Aesthetic Society is dedicated to supporting our patients through top-tier member education.”

 

“The 2022 statistics, drawn from 200 U.S. practices is a significant milestone for aesthetic data, offering consistent insights from 2019 to 2022,” explains Dr. Kye Higdon, Communications Commissioner of The Aesthetic Society.

 

“From this data we’re able to understand the trends on the horizon for our specialty and can help shape a future for aesthetics that both drives innovation and empowers our patients.”

 

The report reveals an interesting trajectory for surgical procedures. After experiencing a surge in the second half of 2020 and reaching its peak in the Spring of 2021, 2021’s surgical counts surpassed pre-pandemic levels by an impressive 55%. Although 2022 saw a decline in surgical procedures compared to 2021, the numbers remained a notable 37% above the counts in 2019. This increase was largely fueled by significant gains in body procedures, with liposuction (+63%) and abdominoplasty (+55%) leading the way. Conversely, nonsurgical procedures took some time to recover from the pandemic’s impact, with significant growth observed in the Spring of 2021, possibly reaching their peak in the Spring of 2022.

 

Quarterly data from the report indicates that the number of procedures performed by surgeons has been well-balanced throughout the year, with the Spring season (April – June) emerging as the most popular period for cosmetic enhancements. Approximately 55% of all surgical procedures were conducted in the first half of the year, with this pattern consistent across body and breast procedures, as well as other surgical treatments.

 

The average plastic surgeon performed 252 surgical procedures in 2022, showing a 13% decrease from the 289 procedures conducted in 2021. However, despite this decline, surgical counts remained an impressive 27% higher than the pre-pandemic levels of 198 procedures in 2019. 2022 saw Americans spending over $11.8 billion on aesthetic procedures overall, up 2% from the previous year.

 

Women continued to dominate the demographic of individuals undergoing aesthetic procedures, representing 95% of all procedures. Among surgical procedures, the most popular age group was 51–70-year-olds, accounting for 36% of all surgeries. The 36-50 age group closely followed with 30%, and 17–35-year-olds accounted for 27%. Patients over the age of 70 represented 8% of all surgical procedures.

 

The Aesthetic Society’s latest report offers invaluable insights into the trends shaping the aesthetic industry. Despite the decline in surgical procedures, the overall growth driven by nonsurgical treatments demonstrates the industry’s adaptability and continued evolution.

 

You can obtain a full copy of The Aesthetic Society’s 2022 statistics here.

 

About The Aesthetic Society:

The Aesthetic Society is recognized as the world’s leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body. The Aesthetic Society is comprised of more than 3,000 Active members in North America and internationally; Active Members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. International Active Members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements. The Aesthetic Society is at the forefront of innovation in aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine globally.

 

About the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery National Databank:

The 2022 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Statistics were compiled using the Aesthetic Neural Network (ANN) data. The Aesthetic Society partnered with Ronan SolutionsTM (Phoenix, AZ) to develop ANN. ANN connects directly to participating Aesthetic Society member plastic surgeons’ practice management systems to retrieve real-time, de-identified, billing data. The data is reviewed and mapped by subject matter experts to generate a dynamic, comprehensive, longitudinal, valid, and reliable repository of procedural and billing data. ANN’s automated, real-time data access also eliminates other drawbacks associated with surveys such as low response rates, cross-sectional data, inaccurate recall, need for manual data entry and the limited number and scope of questions that can be included. For the 2022 Statistics, aggregate data from 200 participating plastic surgery practices across the U.S. that consistently provided data quarterly between 2019 and 2022 were analyzed. The procedure counts were extrapolated to estimate nationwide statistics. These statistics have a standard error of +/- 6.8% at a 95% level of confidence. To enhance the reliability of trends, all prior data have been restated to reflect the consistent sample of participants.

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Culture Foodies/Tastylicious Healthcare Lifestyle Local News Programs & Events

Capital City Farm blossoms under new leadership in Trenton

As farm grows, so does artistry

 

The Mercer County Park Commission’s Capital City Farm (CCF), a flourishing urban farm in Trenton, recently welcomed its new Farm Manager, Corinne Gordon.

Corinne Gordon, new manager at Capital City Farm in Trenton.

Gordon brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as Farm Specialist for the Carter Historic Farm in Bowling Green, Ohio. Her background in sustainable agriculture and community engagement is a perfect match for the Park Commission’s mission and goals for this vibrant space, which include providing locally grown produce for those with limited access to fresh food, lush floral cutting gardens — as well as the opportunity to learn about and participate in urban agriculture.

CCF and the Park Commission’s Howell Living History Farm in Hopewell donate tons of fresh produce and grains, including grits and whole wheat flour, to food pantries and soup kitchens throughout Mercer County each year. In 2022, 21 tons of produce were donated.

“We were very fortunate to be able to bring Corinne aboard,” said Aaron T. Watson, Park Commission Executive Director. “With her education and experience, we know that the farm will continue to flourish under her leadership, strengthening our outreach to the community and the Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK).”

A bounty of flowers from the cutting gardens at Capital City Farm.

Capital City Farm and TASK have been great partners for many years, even prior to the first harvest, according to Joyce Campbell, TASK CEO.

“Having a farm next door to a soup kitchen is like a dream come true as it’s often difficult to get fresh produce donated,”  Campbell said. “The farm’s donation of fresh produce inspired the installation of a salad bar at TASK, which not only provides nutritious foods, but also provides choice for our patrons, most of whom live in poverty and don’t often have the choices many of us take for granted.”

Artist-turned-farmer, Walter Roberts, displays a portrait he painted.

Many farmers may be natural artists, with their carefully-sown beds, their gentle coaxing of seedlings, and their passion for creating a product that they can be proud of. Indeed, the work of farmers requires the touch and vision of craftsmen, and Capital City Farm has become a living canvas that showcases the beauty of agriculture and art.

Working closely with Gordon is Walter Roberts, an artist-turned-farmer whose unique set of skills have been a mainstay of Capital City Farm since it was first acquired by a coalition of local partners and converted into a farm. Starting as a volunteer and eventually becoming a full-time farmer for the Park Commission, Roberts is largely responsible for the growth and variety of crops produced on the farm, not to mention the art that adorns the fences and other structures there. Roberts’ artistry is on display in the meticulously-managed garden beds and the portraits he paints and displays along the farm’s enclosure.

Raven George, Capital City Farm florist.

Also contributing to the aesthetic is Raven George, New Jersey Conservation Foundation’s Cut Flower Production Manager and CCF florist, who creates beautiful flower bouquets each Saturday from the cockscomb, zinnias, cosmos, and snapdragons grown at the farm. Occasionally, she holds free workshops to teach others how to create their own cut flower arrangements at home.

Capital City Farm’s commitment to sustainability and artistic expression has transformed a once-vacant lot into a dynamic space for the entire community to enjoy. Even beyond the garden beds and fruit trees at the edge of the farm, the work of Corinne Gordon, Walter Roberts, Raven George, and a host of volunteers and interns is fast finding new roots in the neighborhood, and throughout New Jersey’s capital city.

Participants in a floral design workshop show off their creations.
Categories
Business Economics Healthcare Lifestyle Regulations & Security

Best’s Review’s popular stories focus on insurance asset management, telemedicine, non-property cat bonds and more

OLDWICK, N.J. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — In the last 90 days, Best’s Review readers have been most interested in the following stories:

 

Best’s Review is AM Best’s monthly insurance magazine, covering emerging issues and trends and evaluating their impact on the marketplace. Access to the complete content of Best’s Review is available here.

 

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

 

Copyright © 2023 by A.M. Best Company, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contact:

Patricia Vowinkel
Executive Editor, Best’s Review®
+1 908 882 1771
patricia.vowinkel@ambest.com

Categories
Culture Economics Environment Healthcare Lifestyle Local News Perks Regulations & Security

Ribbon cutting ceremony celebrates the grand opening of Freedom Village at Hamilton Woods

HAMILTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) has announced the official opening of Freedom Village at Hamilton Woods. This much-anticipated, transformative housing development represents a significant milestone in providing permanent accessible homes and supportive services that empower residents with disabilities to live independently within the vibrant community of Hamilton.

Hamilton Woods offers barrier-free living in every apartment, ensuring easy navigation for residents with wheelchairs. With rents as low as $882 per month, this development addresses the housing needs of low- and moderate-income individuals, making it truly a place they can call home. Furthermore, the residents will have access to on-site social services coordinators provided by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark, further enhancing the support network available to them.

Donna Spencer, NJHMFA’s Director of Multifamily and Supported Housing and Lending at NJHMFA, expressed her gratitude and excitement during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. She praised the efforts of all those involved in bringing this remarkable project to life, especially acknowledging the support and collaboration of Mayor Jeff Martin, the Township of Hamilton, and Project Freedom, a key partner in this endeavor.

“At NJHMFA, we are firmly committed to providing supportive housing to ensure that everyone has a safe, quality, and affordable home regardless of disability status,” Donna Spencer stated.

“Hamilton residents know from experience that Project Freedom builds and maintains accessible, affordable apartments to the highest standard, enabling tenants to reach their full potential. It is our expectation that Project Freedom’s second Hamilton project will prove just as successful as their first.”

The collaboration between NJHMFA and Project Freedom has been instrumental in making this project a reality. Funding of nearly $14 million generated through 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and an additional $1.2 million awarded through NJHMFA’s Special Needs Housing Trust Fund have been crucial to the success of Hamilton Woods.

Hamilton Woods is a housing development that prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. It offers 72 units with one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, catering to people from diverse backgrounds and abilities. Notably, a quarter of these units are thoughtfully designated for individuals with developmental disabilities or mental illnesses, promoting equal housing opportunities. With over eight percent of Hamilton’s population representing people with disabilities, this project addresses their housing needs and is a welcome addition to the township.

Strategically located near the township’s “Center City” district, Hamilton Woods provides easy access to various neighborhood amenities, including a Capital Health clinic, the Hamilton Area YMCA, and the Hamilton Library, all just across the street. Residents will also enjoy convenient transportation options with a nearby bus stop and a range of shopping and dining opportunities within walking distance.

“Hamilton is proud to host a second Project Freedom development,” commented Mayor Jeff Martin. “Project Freedom’s commitment to affordable, barrier-free housing is second-to-none and we look forward to our continued partnership with everyone who made this project possible.”

Project Freedom’s track record in building and maintaining supportive housing has made them an invaluable partner in this initiative. Over the years, Project Freedom has created over 750 affordable homes in five counties, empowering tenants with disabilities and their families to live independently and thrive. Their previous developments have had a positive impact on both the tenants and the surrounding community by uplifting property values and fostering diversity within the neighborhood.

Tracee Battis, Executive Director of Project Freedom said, “We are so thrilled to be celebrating the grand opening of our beautiful Hamilton Woods project, our 12th since the inception of Project Freedom nearly 40 years ago and our 2nd in Hamilton Township. We cannot thank Mayor Jeff Martin, Hamilton Township, NJHMFA, Mercer County, TD Bank and National Equity Fund enough for their continued support for our mission.”

At the event, Norman Smith, Associate Executive Director and Founder, expressed that this is like a second homecoming for him, having grown up in Hamilton Township. He went on to explain what Project Freedom means to him. “Project Freedom’s housing provides a base from which people with and without disabilities can blaze their own paths. This is what I am most proud of. While others see apartments as just bricks and mortar, I see them as catalysts for lives being changed through the opportunity of freedom.”

The Freedom Village concept has proven to be a success in previous partnerships, with developments in Hopewell, Woodstown, Toms River, and more. These homes have brought hope and relief to residents, particularly those with disabilities, who often bear the brunt of the affordable housing crisis. The overwhelming response to Hamilton Woods, with nearly 600 applications received, highlights the pressing need for such supportive accommodations.

“On behalf of NJHMFA, I would like to thank everyone who played a part in bringing this project to fruition,” NJHFMA Executive Director Melanie R. Walter said. “Hamilton Woods offers modern, inclusive, accessible housing that will enhance resident access to and participation in the Hamilton Township community.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter for the residents of Hamilton Woods, reflecting the positive outcomes that can be achieved through dedication, partnership, and a shared vision for inclusive and supportive communities.

About Us: The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) advances the quality of life for residents of and communities throughout New Jersey by investing in, financing, and facilitating access to affordable rental housing and homeownership opportunities for low and moderate-income families, older adults, and individuals with specialized housing needs. To learn more about NJHMFA, visit: https://NJHousing.gov