Break Free from Cystic Acne Tips

September 16, 2025

Young woman with cystic acne on cheeks examining skin condition

Breaking Free from Cystic Acne: Tips from MakatiMed Dermatologists

For many Filipinos, acne is something we thought we’d leave behind after high school. But for some, painful and stubborn breakouts continue well into adulthood. This is especially true for cystic acne—deep, swollen pimples that can linger, scar, and affect one’s confidence. If you’ve ever had to cover up before an important event or felt frustrated with skincare routines that don’t seem to work, you’re not alone. The good news? Dermatologists at Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) share practical solutions to help you finally break out of the cycle.

What Exactly Is Cystic Acne?

Unlike common pimples that appear on the skin’s surface, cystic acne develops deep under the skin. Dr. Julie Anne Patricia M. Songco, a dermatologist at MakatiMed, explains that these occur when oil and dead skin clog the pores and attract bacteria, leading to infection. The body’s natural response creates pus-filled, swollen bumps that can be painful and long-lasting. Left untreated, they may cause permanent scars.

Why Some People Are More Prone

Cystic acne often affects those with oily skin, but it can also be triggered by certain medications, family history, hormonal imbalances like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or even environmental factors such as sweat and humidity—something many Filipinos deal with daily.

Smart Skincare Choices That Work

Dr. Songco highlights tried-and-tested treatments you can add to your skincare routine:

Benzoyl Peroxide – Reduces inflammation, fights bacteria, and unclogs pores.

Salicylic Acid – Prevents breakouts from worsening.

Retinoid A – Helps stop dead skin from blocking pores.

When it comes to facial cleansers, gentle is best. Avoid harsh scrubs or formulas with beads that may irritate the skin. Instead, wash your face once in the morning and again before bedtime with a mild cleanser.

Makeup Matters Too

Sleeping with makeup on is a big no-no, especially if you’re prone to cystic acne. According to Dr. Songco, makeup, sweat, and dust can worsen breakouts overnight. Always remove makeup with a gentle remover and wash your face thoroughly before bed. For safer choices, check labels for “non-comedogenic” products—these won’t clog pores.

Hands Off Your Skin

We all know how tempting it is to pop a pimple, but Dr. Songco strongly advises against it. Picking at cystic acne can spread bacteria, worsen infection, and leave scars that are harder to treat in the long run.

When to See a Dermatologist

If your cystic acne doesn’t go away with creams or lifestyle changes, don’t lose hope. MakatiMed dermatologists recommend seeking professional care. Treatments may include minimally invasive procedures tailored to your skin’s needs. “Cystic acne takes time to heal, but the earlier you get expert advice, the better your chances of clearer skin,” says Dr. Songco.

Cystic acne may feel like an endless cycle, but with the right skincare routine, lifestyle adjustments, and expert guidance, it can be managed. If you’ve been struggling for months or years, don’t wait—consult a dermatologist who can personalize a treatment plan for you.
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Ghostly Medical Conditions Explained: MakatiMed Sheds Light During Ghost Month

September 08, 2025


Every Ghost Month, many Filipinos follow traditions meant to avoid bad luck—like postponing weddings, delaying big purchases, or steering clear of major decisions. But while most of us worry about unseen spirits, some people face “ghostly” conditions that are not supernatural, but very real and medically recognized.

Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), one of the country’s top hospitals, takes the opportunity this Ghost Month (August 23 to September 21, 2025) to raise awareness about these strange yet fascinating disorders. Dr. Jon Edward B. Jurilla, MD, breaks down four “ghost-inspired” medical conditions that affect people in surprising ways.

Phasmophobia: When Fear of Ghosts Becomes Overwhelming

While fear of ghosts is common in folklore and movies, phasmophobia turns it into an extreme and irrational fear. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, anxiety, and even trouble sleeping.

Dr. Jurilla notes that some people avoid darkness or sleeping alone because of this phobia. The good news is, behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and relaxation techniques are effective in helping patients manage their fear. Fun fact: pop star Lady Gaga was once reported to have this condition and even bought a $50,000 ghost detector!

Ghost Sickness: Grief Misunderstood

In Polynesian and Native American traditions, ghost sickness is believed to happen when the spirit of the recently departed attaches to the living. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, nightmares, nausea, hallucinations, and loss of appetite.

Dr. Jurilla clarifies that while medication can ease the symptoms, these are often linked to grief and sadness rather than an actual spirit. This highlights the importance of compassion and mental health support when dealing with loss.

Capgras Delusion: When Loved Ones Seem Like Impostors

Imagine believing your spouse or parent has been replaced by a stranger—that’s the unsettling reality for people with Capgras delusion. This condition can trigger agitation and aggression, as the patient refuses to accept their loved one’s true identity.

It is often caused by brain injuries, psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Doctors usually prescribe anti-psychotic medication and other treatments depending on the root cause.

Hypochondriasis: The Fear of Illness

Locally known as being a “health worrier,” hypochondriasis (or Illness Anxiety Disorder) is the persistent belief that one has a serious, undiagnosed disease. People with this condition constantly check their vitals, undergo unnecessary tests, and Google every symptom.

“This is more of a mental health issue than a physical one,” explains Dr. Jurilla. Treatments include psychotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and sometimes antidepressants to help patients manage their anxiety.

Understanding the “Ghosts” That Haunt Us

While Ghost Month superstitions often focus on appeasing spirits, MakatiMed reminds us that real-life “ghostly” conditions exist—and they require empathy, medical attention, and support from family and community.

“These disorders may be rare, but they bring very real challenges,” Dr. Jurilla emphasizes. “The best thing we can do is offer understanding and evidence-based treatment so patients can live healthier, stigma-free lives.”

If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of these conditions, seeking professional help is the first step toward healing.
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Small Shifts, Big Results: How Women in APAC Could Enhance Wellness Through Balanced Nutrition and Lifestyle

September 03, 2025


By Dr. Rocio Medina Badiano, Cochairperson and Member, Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board


In today’s fast-paced societies across Asia Pacific, women are increasingly balancing multiple responsibilities—at home, at work, and within their communities. Amidst these demands, finding time to prioritize health and wellness can be a challenge. Yet, emerging science and real-world experience consistently show that even modest, well-informed changes in daily habits—particularly around nutrition—can lead to meaningful, long-term improvements in well-being.

According to Dr. Rocio Medina Badiano, Co-chairperson and Member of the Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board, a growing body of research supports a holistic approach to wellness, one that integrates balanced nutrition, routine physical activity, quality sleep, and strong social support. These pillars are not only interdependent, but also foundational to empowering women to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

This is especially relevant in the Philippines, where many women face health challenges shaped by cultural expectations, economic pressures, and uneven access to health care and nutrition. According to the United Nations, Filipino women, especially those from marginalized groups, are more likely to die from preventable conditions such as pregnancy and childbirth complications due to limited access to timely care. A separate study found that they also report higher rates of depression, stress, and other mental health issues compared to the global average.

These challenges, both physical and mental, make it crucial to understand the lifestyle factors affecting women’s well-being.

Stress, Sleep, and Obesity: A Critical Connection

Living in high-pressure environments, such as Metro Manila, brings to light the important connections between stress, sleep, and obesity. Locally, there is a significant rise in overweight and obesity among adults. According to the latest National Nutrition Survey, 57.1% of Filipino adults were overweight or obese in 2023, up from 40.2% in 2021. Among women, the figure is even higher, with six in 10 now considered overweight or obese.

Across Asia, similar trends are emerging. In Malaysia, over half of the adult population struggles with being overweight or obese, with a staggering 54.4% affected (2023). Taiwan isn't far behind, where more than 50% of adults fall into these categories (2017-2020). In South Korea, obesity rates have been gradually increasing, especially among men and children, reaching nearly 20% in the 6-18 age group (2021).

On the other side of the spectrum, Vietnam has a lower obesity rate, but it's one of the fastest-growing issues in the region. Meanwhile, Indonesia is working to keep its prevalence at 21.8% until the end of 2024, which shows the persistent concerns surrounding this issue.

Research shows that not getting enough sleep can lead to weight gain by increasing food cravings and lowering energy levels. Chronic stress doesn't help either; it takes a toll on both our mental and physical well-being, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Stress can influence hunger hormones and reduce our motivation to stay active. Understanding these connections is vital if we want to create effective strategies for promoting wellness and improving quality of life.

Nutrition as a Cornerstone

Dr. Badiano highlighted that optimal nutrition remains central to preventive health. Prioritizing nutrient-dense, whole foods over ultra-processed options is a powerful first step. Protein—whether from lean meats, legumes, or plant-based sources like tofu and nuts, supports energy, muscle maintenance, and satiety. The British Nutrition Foundation notes that women, on average, consume less protein than men—45 grams per day compared to 56 grams per day. Additionally, for premenopausal women, iron intake is especially critical due to monthly losses; iron-rich foods such as spinach, lentils, and fortified cereals can help maintain healthy levels.

Hydration is equally vital. A general guideline is to consume at least eight glasses of water per day, complemented by water-rich fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, oranges, and melons. Additionally, a diverse intake of colorful fruits and vegetables ensures access to essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune and digestive health.

The Importance of Physical Exercise and Sleep Hygiene

Regular physical activity is strongly linked to improved health outcomes. Engaging in a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week—such as walking or cycling—can provide significant cardiovascular, mental, and metabolic benefits. Additionally, incorporating resistance training enhances muscle mass, bone density, and long-term metabolic health. Women who participate in regular aerobic exercise often report better sleep, experiencing improvements in total sleep time and decreased sleep onset latency. Moreover, physical activity can decrease the likelihood of developing sleep-disordered breathing, a condition that is more prevalent among postmenopausal women.

Equally important is the practice of good sleep hygiene; maintaining consistent sleep schedules, establishing screen-free wind-down routines, and creating calm sleep environments can greatly enhance sleep quality. Restorative sleep is essential for regulating mood, managing stress, and facilitating physical recovery.

The Role of Community and Shared Knowledge

Empowering women across APAC to take charge of their health through informed, manageable lifestyle shifts is essential to building resilient communities and healthier futures. Whether it’s rethinking one’s plate, prioritizing hydration, moving more, sleeping better, or engaging with a supportive network—every small change contributes to a larger impact.

As wellness becomes a collective priority, events like the recent 2025 Herbalife Extravaganza in Hong Kong serve as catalysts for education, empowerment, and action. Together, we can champion a culture where women’s health is not an afterthought—but a foundation for thriving lives, families, and communities.
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Federer and other Pro Athlete's Secret to Beating Jet Lag—And How You Can Do It Too

August 26, 2025


Ever landed in your dream destination only to feel exhausted, restless, and wide awake at 3 AM? That’s jet lag, and it can throw your entire trip off balance. But here’s a secret: professional athletes—who often fly across continents to compete—have mastered the art of beating it. Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), one of the Philippines’ leading hospitals, reveals their tried-and-tested hacks so you, too, can travel like a champion.

Why Jet Lag Hits So Hard

Jet lag happens when your circadian rhythm, or body clock, gets disrupted by time zone changes. According to Dr. Maria Patricia Ann T. Puno from MakatiMed’s Neurophysiology and Sleep Disorders Laboratory, athletes who frequently move from one side of the world to another learn to fine-tune their routines—adjusting sleep, diet, and training—to stay sharp and at their best. The good news? These strategies aren’t just for the pros.

Sleep Like Federer

When it comes to resetting your sleep schedule, tennis legend Roger Federer believes in diving straight into the new time zone. He would eat, train, and sleep according to his destination’s schedule, ignoring what time it was back home. Many athletes also prepare in advance by adjusting their bedtime and wake-up time by 30 to 60 minutes each day a week before departure, gradually syncing with their destination’s clock.

Make Rest a Priority

Travel isn’t always comfortable—airplanes and hotel rooms can be noisy, cramped, or just not ideal for a good night’s sleep. That’s why US rugby player Lucas Lacamp relies on music, an eye mask, and earplugs to create a restful environment. Dr. Puno adds that keeping your room cool, ideally between 15°C and 19°C, also helps you drift into deeper sleep.

Harness the Power of Light

Sunlight is a natural reset button for your body clock. If you arrive during the day, take a walk outside to help your body adjust faster. But at night, it’s best to avoid gadgets like laptops and smartphones because the blue light they emit interferes with melatonin production, the hormone that regulates sleep. Irish gymnast Rhys McClenaghan even wears special glasses with red lenses to block 100 percent of blue light and protect his sleep cycle.

Eat, Drink, and Nap Wisely

What you consume also matters. Heavy, carb-loaded meals tend to make you feel sluggish, while protein-rich dishes help you stay alert. Dr. Puno advises skipping alcohol, coffee, and soda during the first few days of travel since these stimulants can make jet lag worse. And while some travelers avoid napping, short power naps can be a lifesaver. Filipino gymnastics star Carlos Yulo, for example, took a series of quick 15-to-20-minute naps leading up to his double gold win at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Just remember to nap briefly and not too close to bedtime.

Travel Smarter, Not Harder

Another simple but effective trick is to choose a morning flight whenever possible, so your circadian rhythm isn’t thrown off too much. Adjusting your watch to your destination’s time as soon as you board the plane also helps condition your brain to start syncing with the new schedule.

Travel Like a Champion

Jet lag may feel inevitable, but with the right preparation and discipline, it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. As MakatiMed emphasizes, these athlete-approved strategies prove that with smart adjustments—whether it’s sleep, diet, or light exposure—you can land ready to explore, perform, or simply enjoy your journey.

For more expert advice, you can reach MakatiMed On-Call at +632 8888 8999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph.
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Camella’s 48th Anniversary Brings Together Hope, Heritage, and Homeownership with Haraya

August 19, 2025


Camella transformed its thriving communities nationwide into celebrations of imagination, inspiration, and innovation with Haraya: A Legacy of Fulfilled Dreams, a two-week campaign that honored the 48-year journey of the most trusted and preferred name in Philippine real estate.

Future-ready living

The two-part Home Hacks and Techs webinar, presented in collaboration with Megahit Global Solution (MGS) Philippines, introduced practical home automation solutions. Discussions on ‘Security that Adapts to Every Age’ explored how smart locks can provide personalized, keyless access for family members while ensuring peace of mind. ‘Future-Proofing the Family Home’ emphasized how features such as remote access, mobile alerts, and guest permissions enhance security and long-term property value.

A celebration in motion


The Filipino Childhood Fun Run, Takbong Haraya, brought back the laughter and camaraderie of laro ng lahing Pilipino, making familiar routes into playful corridors of memory. Themed zones for games such as patintero, tumbang preso, and piko encouraged families to pause and play—a reminder that hope will always find a home in Camella.


Morning runs welcomed the sunrise with crisp air and bright energy while pop-up stalls completed the scene, offering neighborhood flavors that turned finish lines into festive community gatherings. The run became a reunion of generations, geographies, and the gentle joys that shape a sense of home.

Mapping milestones to modernity

Bahay Haraya offered guests an Interactive Timeline chronicling nearly five decades, guiding them through moments and memories that have defined Camella communities across the archipelago.

The Model Home Exhibit opened doors to living spaces that combine the iconic Mediterranean-inspired facade with modern sensibilities. Testimonial Walls showed personal accounts of homeowners, capturing moments of perseverance and pride. The Campaign Corner revisited creative highlights, while Legacy Lane invited attendees to compose, create, or capture what ‘coming home’ means to them.

Opening doors and welcoming futures

Camella communities hosted a Grand Open House, designed for discovery and decision-making. Homebuyers and investors explored both virtual and on-site layouts, joined mini-talks about homeownership and financing consultations from partner banks. Event-only promotions helped translate interest into action, while one-on-one conversations with property specialists created a welcoming environment where questions were answered, next steps were simplified, and timelines turned into turning points toward a forever home.

Strengthening partnerships

Camella invested in its business network by hosting a webinar featuring Joey Bondoc, Research Director at Colliers Philippines. The session delivered a comprehensive analysis of the Philippine real estate market, highlighting current homebuyer preferences and the continued rise of strategically located suburban communities. His insights on tourism, growth centers, and infrastructure-driven development equipped business partners with the foresight, adaptability, and trust necessary to navigate a shifting market landscape.

A cup of gratitude


Camella extended its appreciation to its employees with a special treat: an exclusive 48 percent discount at Coffee Project branches nationwide. Symbolizing the 48 years of fulfilling Filipino dreams, the offer provided the perfect avenue to converse and connect over favorite brews. Whether for a quick coffee before joining the morning run or a quiet moment to unwind after a busy day, the perk added a flavorful note to cap the celebration.

On to new horizons

From the earliest sana whispered in hope to the moment keys are placed into waiting hands, haraya has embodied the promise Camella has upheld for nearly five decades. This anniversary was not only a commemoration of what has been achieved but also a beacon for what lies ahead, reminding families that dreams are never still—they grow, evolve, and take root in spaces for both memory and milestones. The spirit of haraya endures: it calls on Filipinos to keep imagining, keep aspiring, and keep believing that every hope can find a home.

Camella is the flagship brand of Vista Land, providing over 600,000 homes in beautifully designed themed communities across 49 provinces and 147 key cities and municipalities. Camella builds thriving communities that embody innovation and progress with family and community life at its center, creating a legacy of value for generations to come.

Learn more about Camella. Visit www.camella.com.ph and follow @CamellaOfficial.

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Keeping your food and drink safe from prep to plate


Food poisoning is unpleasant—but totally avoidable, MakatiMed reminds

Food poisoning may be associated with the hot summer months, given how bacteria thrive in oppressive temperatures. But in reality, consuming contaminated food and drink can happen anytime, anywhere—including at home.

“First off, many germ-laden dishes taste no different from unspoiled food, so there’s no way of telling if you have food poisoning until you experience the classic symptoms—nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, headache, and even a fever,” says Mark Paul S. Castillo, MD from top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).

“Secondly, these symptoms don’t always present themselves immediately. Certain bacteria can trigger symptoms 30 minutes to eight hours after consuming contaminated food. Others, like the virus behind Hepatitis A, take days, weeks, and even months before symptoms appear.”

Food poisoning resolves within 24 to 48 hours, and requires nothing more from you but to ride out the vomiting and bum stomach. It’s best to hydrate with electrolytes and broth soup. Still, more serious cases could land you in the hospital for kidney failure, nerve and brain damage, and in rare but still possible situations, death.

Prevention is crucial to avoiding this most unpleasant yet avoidable condition. For MakatiMed, the goal is to ensure your food and drink are free of contaminants from start to finish.

PREP. “It’s all about cleanliness,” reminds Dr. Castillo. “Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling ingredients and cooked food. Wear disposable gloves if you have a rash or wound on your hand and need to handle raw ingredients. Chopping boards, knives, plates, pans, and other cooking utensils must also be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water, then wiped dry with a paper towel, before using them for the first time, then again on other ingredients, and just before you put them away.”

Raw ingredients like meat, poultry, fish, and seafood need to be rinsed well too, and separated, instead of sharing a single plate. “Use a brush to gently scrub some fruits and vegetables like apples, cucumbers, root crops, and squash and thoroughly rid them of dirt,” shares Dr. Castillo. “For leafy vegetables, rinse them under running water and use a salad spinner or paper towels to dry them.”

Dr. Castillo also advises keeping your kitchen countertop and sink clean with soap and water, then wipe with a paper towel or a clean dry rag. “Replace sponges at least once a week, as they can be home to E. coli and other bacteria. Washing them completely at the end of each day also helps.”

PLATE. Make sure food is cooked following the recommended time and temperature, and if you can, keep food constantly warm with chafing dishes. According to Dr. Castillo, “Consume hot food immediately, as leaving it in room temperature for two hours or more allows bacteria to grow.” Serve cold dishes in small amounts and only when they’re ready to be eaten. Keep the cold dish in the fridge or maintain its cool temperature with bowls of ice.

Make sure dishes, bowls, glasses, and utensils are clean or have been properly washed and dried before use. “And no double-dipping,” says Dr. Castillo. “Assign specific serving spoons, forks, tongs, and knives to dishes to avoid cross-contamination.”

KEEP. Place leftovers in clean covered containers, keep in the freezer, and re-heat before serving. “Most people think that leftovers can live in the fridge forever. Best to consume them within 3-4 days,” notes Dr. Castillo.

Indeed, food in the fridge doesn’t always guarantee it’ll remain as fresh (or safe to eat) as the day you cooked it. “Check for molds and weird smells,” Dr. Castillo points out. “Or better yet, when in doubt, throw it away. It’s better safe than sorry.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.
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No Symptoms, No Warning: CEO Discovers Major Heart Blockage through Health Screening

August 08, 2025


Agnes Gervacio discovered a serious heart condition only through executive health screening at Fullerton Health

Agnes Gervacio, Chief Executive Officer of social enterprise Connected Women, has always lived what many would consider a healthy lifestyle – adhering to a vegetarian diet and eating healthily, exercising regularly, and going for regular health screening. Despite this, a routine screening done at Fullerton Health uncovered what had gone undetected for years – a major blockage in one of the blood vessels in her heart that could lead to a heart attack if left untreated.

The test that likely saved her life was a CT calcium score test, which measures calcified plaque in coronary arteries to assess heart disease risk. The test is offered as part of executive health screening (EHS) by Fullerton Health in partnership with RadLink Philippines.

The Silent Threat Uncovered

None of the screenings that Agnes had attended in previous years had detected any cardiac abnormalities. It wasn’t until Carmie De Leon, Country General Manager, RadLink Philippines and EHS Lead, Fullerton Health Philippines, recommended trying Fullerton Health’s EHS service that a CT scan revealed how close she was to a heart attack.

“I didn’t have chest pain, shortness of breath or any other symptom. In fact, I was still hiking up mountains,” Agnes recounted, highlighting the insidious nature of her condition. “If it wasn't for Carmie’s recommendation, I might not be here now. A scan saved my life.”

Agnes underwent a scan in an advanced 128-slice CT machine, which completes scans in just seconds, far quicker than most other CT machines in Metro Manila. This speed and precision ensure a comfortable and efficient patient experience.

“Agnes’ scan was probably done in fewer than 10 seconds. It takes longer to prepare for the scan, lie down and be positioned, than the actual scan itself,” said Darren Lim, Senior Vice President, RadLink Philippines.

After receiving her screening results, Agnes quickly sought the opinions of multiple cardiologists and underwent further tests before a successful life-saving procedure to restore her heart function.

The Fullerton Health Difference

The experience has prompted Agnes to share the importance of health screening with close friends and to speak about her experience with Fullerton Health’s EHS service, which she describes as a “wellness clinic focused on preventive care”. Other than privacy and comfort, the ease of securing an appointment and the ability tailor tests to one’s profile differentiate the service from other providers in Metro Manila.

“Health is an investment not just of money, but also of time and attention,” Agnes said. Urging the importance of regular health checkups even when feeling fine, she added, “You can do more when you're healthy and the effort you invest in preventive care would not really cost you an arm and a leg.”

“Our goal at Fullerton Health is to empower individuals to take charge of their health journey, offering the crucial tools and insights for early detection and proactive management,” said De Leon. “We're here to be a trusted partner every step of the way, supporting our patients as they embark on a new, healthier path.”

Stories like Agnes’ illustrate the importance of regular and timely executive health screening, which is a key pillar in preventive health, for self-paying and company-covered individuals alike. To provide data-driven insights into executive health, Fullerton Health will be launching a post- EHS corporate reporting service to provide companies with data-driven insights into the health of their executives. These insights will enable companies to develop more targeted health and wellness initiatives.
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