HEALTH

In a first for Apple, FDA clears EKG device for Apple Watch
Mountain View, Calif.-based AliveCor on Thursday announced FDA clearance of KardiaBand in the U.S., allowing Apple Watch users to discreetly capture their EKG anytime, anywhere in order to quickly detect normal sinus heart rhythms and atrial fibrillation, the most common heart arrhythmia.

The first FDA-cleared medical device accessory for Apple Watch, KardiaBand can record an EKG in 30 seconds with just a touch of its integrated sensor. Results from the Kardia App are displayed on the face of Apple Watch.
EverlyWell jumps the ‘Shark’
“Shark Tank,” the hit ABC television series, is paying off for EverlyWell, an at-home health testing company. EverlyWell founder and CEO Julia Cheek accepted a $1 million line of credit in exchange for 5% equity on the show that aired Sunday, Nov. 26. It is the largest valuation deal for a solo female entrepreneur in “Shark Tank” history.

NIH maps indoor allergens prevelance nationwide

Allergens are widespread, but highly variable in U.S. homes, according to the nation’s largest indoor allergen study to date. Researchers from the National Institutes of Health on Thursday reported that more than 90% of homes had three or more detectable allergens, and 73% of homes had at least one allergen at elevated levels.
Innovus launches low-cost nasal spray allergy relief in FlutiCare

Earlier this month Innovus Pharmaceuticals launched FlutiCare OTC in the U.S., making it the third branded fluticasone propionate nasal spray on the market. Innovus, based in San Diego, secured distribution through more than 10,000 independent pharmacies through AmerisourceBergen and McKesson and Walmart online.

As a second phase of its launch, Innovus Pharma will launch FlutiCare to large retail stores.
Semma Therapeutics developing stem cell therapy for Type 1 diabetes

Semma Therapeutics has announced the completion of a highly oversubscribed $114 million Series B financing. Proceeds will be used to bring the company’s lead development program of encapsulated stem cell-derived islets, through proof-of-concept in patients while continuing exploration of other regenerative medicine therapeutics.
Trend toward self-management fuels growth of diabetes device sales

With the increasing trend of self-management and the rising awareness around the diabetes disease state within developing countries, blood glucose meters can be utilized to aid in adjustment of therapeutic regimen in response to blood glucose values and to help patients adjust their dietary intake, physical activity and insulin doses to improve glycaemic control on a regular basis.

This and several other factors are covered in the latest Research and Marekts report focused on diabetes care devices.
Kroger, APhA Foundation to help CDC scale National Diabetes Prevention Program

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will be working with the American Pharmacists Association to build infrastructure to expand a program from the National Diabetes Prevention Program within community pharmacies.
OraSure partners with Walgreens to promote HIV testing

OraSure Technologies on Thursday announced several new HIV testing-related initiatives in recognition of World AIDS Day. OraSure is working with The AIDS Institute to launch a grant program to encourage the development of HIV self testing programs and collaborating with both The AIDS Institute and Walgreens, based in Deerfield, Ill., to promote rapid HIV testing in cities across the U.S.
WebMD and Reckitt Benckiser launch new cold and flu chatbot

This season, WebMD and Parsippany, N.J.-based Reckitt Benckiser are expanding their partnership with a new cold and flu chatbot designed to allow for more timely, targeted and personal connections with consumers.
OneTouch honors those with diabetes by launching #SmallVictories campaign

Johnson & Johnson’s LifeScan brand, makers of OneTouch Verio Flex, plans to honors those across the country with diabetes by launching a new campaign. #SmallVictories will feature in-person surprises celebrating everyday lifestyle changes that have helped in moving forward with managing blood glucose. This new venture resulted from a new survey showing that while 83% of people living with Type 2 diabetes feel like they are working to make everyday lifestyles changes, more than a quarter cannot remember the last time they received any recognition for their efforts.