- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Feb. 7, 2025 COLUMBIA, S.C. — Super Bowl LIX is right around the corner, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) encourages residents to kick off their celebrations with healthy alternatives at the table on game day. Super Bowl gatherings often prompt people to indulge in chicken wings, pizza, and various beverages. While tasty, many of these foods are high in fat, sugar, salt…, said Kate Gerweck, Director of DPH’s Section of Public Health Nutrition Practice and SNAP Education, . You can find healthy game day recipes in the Eating Healthy in a SNAP Cookbook on the DPH website. DPH recommends the following healthy tips for game day:, Start with some exercise, Before you settle in for the game, get moving! A 30-minute walk or jog in the morning will get your body ready for the day. Or try a quick online workout video to warm up your muscles. It’s a great way to start your tradition with some healthy energy!, Load up on fruits and veggies , Instead of chips and other high-fat snacks, try using fresh fruits and veggies for dipping. They're low in calories but still tasty. If you're hosting, provide healthy options for your guests to balance out the heavy snacks. It's an easy way to add nutrients while still enjoying tasty treats!, Watch your portion sizes, It’s easy to eat more than you planned, especially with so many tasty snacks around. To avoid overindulging, make a plate and step away from the table. You don’t need to go back for seconds if you're already satisfied., Snack ideas:, Instead of bowls of chips or pretzels, serve individual snack bags or small bowls to control portions., Don’t forget about your drinks, What you drink is just as important as what you eat! Avoid sugary drinks like soda or sweet tea, which add extra calories., Drink ideas:, Water, of course! Add slices of lemon, lime, or cucumber for some flavor. Fruit-infused water: Try mixing berries, mint, and citrus for a refreshing twist. If you have diabetes and are drinking alcohol, remember that alcohol intake can lead to low blood sugar. Stick to one drink for women and two for men to stay within healthy limits., Drink water and eat slowly, Before diving into your first plate of food, have a big glass of water. It helps you feel full and supports digestion. Also, take your time while eating. Slow down and savor each bite—you'll feel more satisfied and less likely to overeat. By drinking water and eating mindfully, you can feel fuller with less food, making it easier to stick to healthier portions., Never drink and drive , Plan to travel with a sober friend, use a taxi or rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft, or public transportation. If you’re the designated driver, it’s important to take the role seriously and don’t consume alcohol or use other drugs. If you’re hosting a gathering, make sure everyone has a sober ride home. With these simple tips and snack ideas, you can enjoy the big game without going off…
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Sept. 12, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. — In observance of Child Passenger Safety Week (Sept. 15-21), the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is emphasizing the critical importance of proper car seat use and hosting a series of educational events. Every year, thousands of children across the country are severely injured or killed in car crashes. Many of these tragedies can be prevented with…, said Emily Barb, Health Educator for the DPH’s Child Passenger Program, . During Child Passenger Safety Week, DPH will host educational events across the state to promote the proper use of car safety seats for children. At the car seat check events, CPS technicians will be available to help parents and caregivers ensure their car seat is properly installed and used correctly for the child’s age, height and weight. Each year, DPH technicians participate in more…
- South Carolina has reported seven poisonings that required hospitalization associated with Diamond Shruumz or other mushroom-containing chocolate products, , FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, July 25, 2024 Columbia, S.C. – The, South Carolina Department of Public Health, (, DPH, ) is warning consumers not to eat, sell, or serve Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, gummies, or cones. These products, which were recalled by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June , have been linked to severe illness, including seizures, nervous system depression, muscle tremors, abnormal heart rate, mental confusion, nausea and vomiting. “DPH has been working closely with our…, said Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH director. , Use of these products has been linked to poisonings in 74 people across 28 states with a high hospitalization rate, including two potentially associated deaths. South Carolina has reported, seven poisonings, that required hospitalization associated with Diamond Shruumz or other mushroom-containing chocolate products. “Poison centers across the United States, including the Palmetto Poison Center, which serves all of South Carolina, have received reports of severe toxicity from the consumption of Diamond Shruumz- brand chocolate bars, cones, and gummies.” said, Dr. William Richardson, Medical Director of Palmetto Poison Center, . Some people experiencing illness after consuming the products were critically ill and required intensive medical treatment. A recall of Diamond Shruumz products was issued on June 27. However, these products may still be on shelves in some stores or available for purchase online. Commonly called microdose “edibles,” these products contain a proprietary blend of mushrooms and other…, " said Sara Goldsby, Director of the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services., "Our first priority is protecting our children’s safety and health. When it comes to talking about the dangers of substances like the mushrooms in Diamond Shruumz products, it’s best to have conversations early and often, and our Open Conversation SC initiative provides the necessary tools at openconversationsc.com ." To report a poisoning, call South Carolina’s Palmetto Poison Center at 1-…, July 31, 2024, update, – A list of store names and locations where the recalled products were available for retail sale is included in the recall announcement. There may be additional retailers not included on this list that are continuing to sell the recalled product. This list will be updated by the FDA as additional stores are identified. ###
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, July 29, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH)’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) recently reached its highest participation milestone for the first time in seven years, assisting more than 100,000 participants during the month of May. DPH’s WIC team served 100,540 participants between the dates of May 1 and 31. This…, said Berry Kelly, DPH WIC Director, . “The staff work hard and do an outstanding job providing WIC services to so many moms, babies, and young children across the state.” The team's success is due in large part to its aptitude in maximizing technology to improve service delivery. Among the projects they have championed are: , New online application for WIC., The team launched an online application enabling families to create a secure account to upload and update required documentation, including medical and health information and proof of income eligibility, prior to scheduling their WIC appointment. The portal streamlines the application, enrollment and recertification processes for both families and WIC staff and keeps important information easily…, WIC mobile app., WIC participants can now access their benefits with the WIC mobile app. Using the app, participants can scan Unit Price Codes while shopping to see if the item is WIC-approved, review their remaining benefits, find locations to shop, locate WIC clinics, view details of upcoming appointments and access additional WIC resources., E-Solution for the Farmer's Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)., In 2023, the FMNP transitioned from paper vouchers to a mobile app and shopper card. These mobile-friendly solutions make it easier for eligible WIC participants to buy fresh, South Carolina grown fruits, vegetables and herbs to provide healthy food options for their families. The electronic transaction streamlines purchasing for WIC participants and is mutually beneficial for South Carolina…, Kelly said, . “WIC participants are super tech-savvy; therefore, we as a program must think out-of-the-box about how WIC services are delivered. WIC has been progressively embedding technology into all aspects of the program. From EBT/e-WIC to online education, interactive texting, use of apps and participant portals, the program is moving into the digital world.” WIC team leaders Betty Washington, Jessica…
- … among primary care providers of patients who could benefit from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications. Faculty: Colleen F. Kelley, MD, MPH … among primary care providers of patients who could benefit from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications. Faculty: Colleen F. Kelley, MD, MPH …
- … life. Just a few of DPH's services include providing vital health care services, coordinating disease control, supporting healthy nutrition, inspecting health care facilities, responding to …
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Dec. 10, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is joining the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) in reminding residents to take active precautions to stay safe as temperatures drop and bring potentially dangerous conditions. While South Carolina winters are typically mild, severe winter weather can still occur, potentially bringing snow,…, said, Kim Stenson, Director of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division. “, Preparation today can make all the difference when hazardous winter weather strikes.” The South Carolina Emergency Management Department (SCEMD) offers a Winter Weather Guide to help residents prepare for hazardous winter weather. As recent storms have shown, extended power outages can cause significant and potentially life-threatening conditions that could be made far more dangerous when…, said Dr. Edward Simmer, interim DPH director, . “This can be especially true for our vulnerable populations, like newborns, the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. We encourage all South Carolinians to take steps to prevent potential injury, including dressing for colder conditions, taking additional measures to avoid falls , and being extra cautious while driving.” Use of space heaters and fireplaces during the winter months…
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Jan. 23, 2025 COLUMBIA, S.C. — National Maternal Health Awareness Day is Thursday, Jan. 23, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is emphasizing the need to understand and address the causes of maternal deaths, most of which are preventable. South Carolina ranks 8th highest for maternal mortality in the United States. In 2020 , South Carolina saw a 16.3% decrease in the…, said Danielle Wingo, DPH Bureau of Maternal and Child Health Director, . “However, there is an urgent need to enhance our prevention efforts considering South Carolina's ranking in the nation and the disparities in maternal outcomes.” According to the 2024 South Carolina Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Review Committee (SCMMMRC) Legislative Brief , more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths were preventable. The leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths from 2018…
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Sept. 6, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. — In celebration of National Food Bank Day Friday, Sept. 6, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) thanks our dedicated statewide partners who operate food banks and pantries that provide sustenance and fresh food to South Carolinians in need. One in eight South Carolinians – including one in six children – are food insecure, according to the nonprofit…, said Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH interim director, . “The hundreds of food banks and pantries across our state are a true community effort, relying on those who operate and support them as well as those who donate to them. Today, we thank our residents who provide assistance to their fellow residents in need.” Clemson University College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences (CBSHS) and the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services…, said Leslie Hossfeld, dean of the College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, . “This partnership is one of the many ways CBSHS and the Department of Environmental Services are working to improve the health and well-being of South Carolinians, and I am proud of how the Food Access Map continues to meet individuals’ needs and support food bank services across the state.” , Some Ways DPH is Helping Reduce Food Insecurity in South Carolina , In January, staff from DPH’s Bureau of Community Nutrition Services volunteered at Harvest Hope Food Bank - Columbia . Staff members helped inspect, sort, prepare and pack goods to be donated to the community. Harvest Hope is South Carolina’s largest food bank, feeding the hungry across 20 counties in South Carolina. In July, DPH partnered with Greenwood Counts Community Consortium (GC3) Food…, Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH interim director, . In January, the Food Security Council submitted its final report to the legislature which included 16 recommendations to increase food security for all South Carolinians. ###
- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:, Sept. 10, 2024 COLUMBIA, S.C. – As World Suicide Prevention Day is observed Sept. 10, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) aims to raise awareness, spread hope and share vital information on how everyone can play a role in suicide prevention. World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually during Suicide Prevention Week (Sept. 8-14) and Suicide Prevention Month (September). …, 12th-leading cause of death, in South Carolina in 2021, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), and was the third-leading cause of death for those aged 10 to 34. As outlined in DPH’s most-recent detailed mortality statistics , suicide accounted for , 849 deaths, in South Carolina in 2022. “Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone of any age and walk of life, and, while common, should be addressed with care and sincerity,”, said Kacey Schmitt, DPH’s Director of Social Work, . “It can be hard to do, but it is vital that we have these important conversations with loved ones and others we care about.” The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers the following warning signs of suicide: Comments or thoughts about suicide Increased alcohol and drug use Aggressive behavior Withdrawal from friends, family and community Mood swings Impulsive or…, said Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH interim director, . “These resources can be lifesaving to someone experiencing a mental health crisis, so it’s important that we make everyone aware that help is readily available.” , In South Carolina, the following options are also available to those in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress: , The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support via a mental health professional with the Lifeline network. To connect, call or text , 988, . The South Carolina Department of Mental Health Mobile Crisis clinicians provide 24/7 community-based crisis response anywhere in South Carolina. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, contact DMH's Mobile Crisis Team at 833-364-2274 . The SCDMH Deaf Services Hotline is dedicated to people who are deaf or hard of hearing and in crisis or in need of resources. It…, HOPE4SC to 741-741, (Español: , “AYUDA” to 741-741, ). Texts to this line do not use your data or show up on your phone bill. If a situation escalates into a crisis, you may have to call, 911, . NAMI offers advice for calling 911 and talking with police during a mental health crisis. ###