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"Before
my diagnosis, I had no idea that I was at risk for kidney
disease, or that fatigue or tiredness associated with
anemia is a warning symptom for the condition. If I
had known more about the risk factors for chronic kidney
disease and its symptoms, I could have worked with my
doctor and received treatment earlier, which may have
slowed my disease progression," said Mourning. "Take
my advice -- if you're at risk for chronic kidney disease
and have symptoms of anemia, speak to your doctor."
People at risk for chronic kidney disease include those
who suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure, or both,
and those who have a family history of kidney disease
or who are over the age of 65. Chronic kidney disease
also is more common among African-Americans, Hispanic-Americans,
Asians, Pacific Islanders and American Indians. It is
particularly important for those at risk for chronic
kidney disease to be aware of the signs and symptoms
of anemia, such as fatigue or tiredness, dizziness or
shortness of breath.
"Recognition
of anemia may lead to an earlier discovery of chronic
kidney disease, which can lead to earlier treatment
and better health outcomes," said Robert Provenzano,
M.D., F.A.C.P., chair of the Division of Nephrology,
Department of Internal Medicine, St. John Hospital &
Medical Center, Detroit, MI. "This makes it critical
that patients discuss symptoms of anemia with their
doctors."
Rebound from Anemia is sponsored by Ortho Biotech Products,
L.P., marketer of PROCRIT(R) (Epoetin alfa). For more
information about kidney disease and anemia, please
visit www.KidneyResource.com
Alonzo's
Story
In 2000, Alonzo Mourning was at the top of his game.
He was a leading player in the NBA, twice-named defensive
player of the year and a member of the gold medal Olympic
team. That same year, he faced his biggest opponent
-- a diagnosis of kidney disease that led to his temporary
retirement from the NBA and a kidney transplant in December
2003.
"One
of my greatest challenges was the fatigue or tiredness
related to anemia that not only kept me from picking
up a basketball, but even prevented me from playing
with my kids," said Mourning. "Once I began treatment
for kidney disease, my doctor explained that anemia
was a treatable condition and prescribed PROCRIT(R)
(Epoetin alfa), a medication that helped treat my anemia."
Individual results of PROCRIT(R) therapy may vary. Today,
Mourning has made a successful return to the NBA and
has dedicated much of his life to helping others with
kidney disease.
About
Anemia
Anemia is a condition that occurs when the body does
not have enough red blood cells, which carry oxygen.
Oxygen acts like fuel for the body, providing energy
for muscles and organs to work. Common symptoms include
fatigue or tiredness, shortness of breath, dizziness,
decreased ability to concentrate, paleness and impaired
ability to participate in formerly routine tasks.
Many people with anemia may not know they have it, that
treatments are available or that it is an early warning
sign of chronic kidney disease. Early diagnosis and
treatment of both anemia and chronic kidney disease
may help to improve patients' health.
Anemia can be treated effectively in patients who have
chronic kidney disease. PROCRIT(R) helps treat anemia
by increasing the number of red blood cells in a patient's
body. More red blood cells may mean more strength to
get back to the activities of daily life.
About
PROCRIT(R) (Epoetin alfa)
PROCRIT(R) (Epoetin alfa) is a prescription medication
for the treatment of anemia in chronic kidney disease
patients who are not on dialysis and is injected by
doctors or nurses. PROCRIT(R) is not for patients with
uncontrolled high blood pressure.
High blood pressure has been noted in patients treated
with PROCRIT(R) and blood pressure should be monitored
carefully. Drugs like PROCRIT(R) may increase the risk
of blood clots and seizures. Loss of response to PROCRIT(R)
could be a sign of a very rare but serious condition.
In studies, the most common side effects were high blood
pressure, headache, joint pain, and nausea.
Please visit www.PROCRIT.com
for full prescribing information.
About
Ortho Biotech Products, L.P.
In 1990, Ortho Biotech Products, L.P. was established
in Raritan, N.J. Since then, Ortho Biotech and its worldwide
affiliates have earned a global reputation for researching,
manufacturing and marketing innovative products that
enhance patients' health. Ortho Biotech, located in
Bridgewater, N.J., is an established market leader in
Epoetin alfa therapy for anemia management across multiple
indications and focuses its research and marketing efforts
in four clinical areas: oncology, nephrology, immunology
and surgery.
PRESS CONTACT:
Greg
Panico
Ortho Biotech Products, L.P.
(908) 541-4062 (office) or (908) 240-2011 (cell)
gpanico1@gpcus.jnj.com
Leanne
Madison
Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide
(212) 880-5246 (office) or (857) 205-8415 (cell)
leanne.madison@ogilvypr.com
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