WCIV - Charleston News 4 Your Health

Clinic agrees to work with DHEC in Hepatitis B infection investigation

Wed, 22 May 2013 18:57:00 EDT

The state's Department of Health and Environmental Control on Monday issued a public order for a North Charleston clinic where they believe three people were diagnosed with Hepatitis B.

Riverdogs add gluten-free beer, snacks to stadium menus

Wed, 22 May 2013 14:07:00 EDT

The Charleston RiverDogs' food and beverage division always has the fans' tastes, desires and trends in mind. That initiative now includes gluten-free beer and snacks.

Expanded VA outpatient clinic in Beaufort to open

Wed, 22 May 2013 04:31:00 EDT

An expanded veterans' outpatient clinic at the Naval Hospital in Beaufort is ready to accept patients.

SC Senate defeats effort to expand Medicaid

Tue, 21 May 2013 22:08:00 EDT

South Carolina senators defeated another attempt by Democrats to extend Medicaid coverage under the federal health care law.

Battling the high cost of having a baby

Tue, 21 May 2013 18:01:00 EDT

Getting pregnant is a fairly easy process for most, but it can be difficult for others. The cost of actually having that baby can be a struggle for those who don't have the right insurance.

Meeting Street Academy students get a new pair of shoes

Mon, 20 May 2013 23:04:00 EDT

The Meeting Street Academy Running Club started off small, but excitement helped it grow.

Expert: New moms should know dangers of infant abductions

Mon, 20 May 2013 17:53:00 EDT

An expert with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children says the Charleston Police did a good job stopping a potential infant abduction attempt before a crime occurred.

SC colleges look at on-campus tobacco bans

Sun, 19 May 2013 19:58:00 EDT

Campus-wide bans against smokers could spread to several South Carolina universities.

Camp Breathe Easy program prepares kids for summer play

Sun, 19 May 2013 00:05:00 EDT

The school year will be ending shortly and at Camp Breathe Easy kids and parents are reminded asthma triggers are everywhere, even when they are playing in the park this summer.

Bride-to-be warns: A stroke can happen to anyone

Fri, 17 May 2013 17:53:00 EDT

Holly Harrison was at work this past Valentine's Day when things took a sudden and dramatic turn for the worse. Harrison became sick in the stomach and passed out in the bathroom.

Telehealth therapy grows among veterans

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:20:00 EDT

One of the advances the research team showcased was Telehealth therapy. This is a the use of videoconferencing with programs like Skype where patients can log on from anywhere for a session.

Breast cancer survivor to Jolie: 'I'd give her a hug today'

Tue, 14 May 2013 18:11:00 EDT

Wendy Anderson said Jolie can show other women it will be okay. She had an elective mastectomy after being diagnosed with breast cancer in her other breast.

Jolie admired for bravery in mastectomy revelation

Tue, 14 May 2013 17:49:00 EDT

"I hope that other women can benefit from my experience," Angelina Jolie wrote in a powerful op-ed article Tuesday, explaining her decision to go public with having her breasts removed to avoid cancer.

Parents sue SC, hospital over child's sex surgery

Tue, 14 May 2013 17:10:00 EDT

A couple is suing the state of South Carolina for what they say was unnecessary sexual assignment surgery on a toddler they adopted.

Charleston County EMS gets new ambulances

Tue, 14 May 2013 17:04:00 EDT

Charleston County EMS is rolling out six new ambulances in its fleet, and two more on the way. The new trucks have improved safety measures both inside and out, according to officials.

Convicted drugged driver: 'It destroyed me'

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:10:00 EDT

She doesn't want to release her name, but she does want to share her story. The unnamed woman says she remembers the first time she got drunk. She was 6 years old and her mother had given her moonshine to help with sickness.

Mom drops pounds for her family

Fri, 10 May 2013 18:51:00 EDT

Patricia Jenkins says she struggled with weight for quite some time, but didn't realize how it weighed on her children.

New hospital data shows giant swings in prices between cities, states

Thu, 9 May 2013 21:40:00 EDT

Hospitals within the same city sometimes charge tens of thousands of dollars more for the same procedures, according to figures the government released for the first time Wednesday.

SC officers to again pay more for pensions in 2014

Wed, 8 May 2013 17:38:00 EDT

South Carolina's law enforcement officers and firefighters will again be required to put a higher percentage of their salaries toward their retirement benefits than other public workers.

Battery teams up to Kick for Cure

Tue, 7 May 2013 11:31:00 EDT

The Charleston Battery is teaming up with Dragon Boat Charleston and the Lowcountry Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure on Saturday, May 11 for the third annual Kick for a Cure night.

Bashful? Buy the little blue pill online

Mon, 6 May 2013 05:40:00 EDT

Men who are bashful about needing help in the bedroom no longer have to visit a drugstore to buy that little blue pill.

Should the state regulate what people buy on food stamps?

Thu, 2 May 2013 23:01:00 EDT

Doughnuts, chips, sodas: if state leaders get their way, some people can say goodbye to purchasing those foods with state-funded assistance.

SC Senate committee refuses to expand Medicaid

Thu, 2 May 2013 22:12:00 EDT

The Senate Finance Committee has refused to expand Medicaid eligibility to more poor adults as part of the state budget.

Family adopting special-needs girl from Eastern Europe

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 22:50:00 EDT

A Moncks Corner couple is adopting a girl, 8, from Eastern Europe. She has special needs and is developmentally at the level of a 1-year-old child.

MUSC to participate in national autism study

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 19:22:00 EDT

Could a blood test determine if a child will develop autism? That's what researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina will be trying to help figure out.

Chief Carr suffered from MSA, official says

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:18:00 EDT

A spokesperson for the Charleston Fire Department says Chief Thomas Carr passed away after complications from his continued battle with Multiple System Atrophy, a Parkinsonian Syndrome.

Public warning for Summerville residents lifted after sewer overflow

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 12:23:00 EDT

The "high volume" of overflow was from a broken gravity main located south of Miles Jamison Road.

Boil water advisory lifted for parts of Summerville

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EDT

Residents in Tramway, Carriage Lane, The Village Mobile Home Park and anyone living along Rose Drive were under the advisory.

RiverDogs, MUSC team up with 'Lighten Up Charleston' for Bigger Loser Competition

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EDT

The Charleston RiverDogs' "Healthy Challenge" will soon be underway.

High court rejects tobacco marketing appeal

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:49:00 EDT

The Supreme Court has rejected a First Amendment challenge by tobacco companies to a 2009 law that restricts how they can market their products.

MUSC celebrates Earth Day, recycling anniversary

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 08:39:00 EDT

The Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston is celebrating Earth Day as well as its efforts to help the environment.

Retired Desert Storm medic saves coworker with a pen

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 18:41:00 EDT

When a woman collapsed in her Charleston, S.C., office a retired Air Force medic who served in Desert Storm swung into action and saved her life with a new wall-mounted defibrillator and an ink pen to clear her airways so she could breathe again.

Roper drops appeal in fight over Trident Summerville expansion

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 13:07:00 EDT

Summerville Medical Center will finally be able to move forward with a 30-bed expansion after Roper St. Francis drops its legal appeal.

Clemson students find bacteria risk in beer pong

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 06:28:00 EDT

The most dangerous part of playing beer pong might not be drinking too much beer.

Free physicals for Berkeley and Dorchester County student athletes

Tue, 9 Apr 2013 14:03:00 EDT

Trident Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation will be offering free pre-participation physicals to all Berkeley and Dorchester County students.

30-day SNAP Challenge: Here's the truth

Tue, 9 Apr 2013 09:53:00 EDT

Finally, 30 days have come and gone. I ended the challenge about $17 dollars short of my $131.81 budget for the month.

New high-tech system monitors hand hygiene

Wed, 3 Apr 2013 18:22:00 EDT

It's considered common sense for doctors and nurses to wash their hands, but Summerville Medical Center has put in a new monitoring system that will prove whether they're doing just that.

Komen hands out life-saving grants

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 22:24:00 EDT

More men and women will be able to get breast cancer screenings and perhaps more lives will be saved, thanks to more than a half million dollars in grant money handed out Tuesday night by the Susan G. Komen Lowcountry affiliate.

AHA: Just a 30 min walk can help your heart

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EDT

For one day a year, people across the nation are asked to take steps to improve their health, but the AHA says it's just the beginning to being healthy.

Multiple landmarks light it blue for autism awareness

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 13:02:00 EDT

Several landmarks and a couple of mayors are teaming up to support autism awareness this month.

The South: A near-solid block against 'Obamacare'

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 23:38:00 EDT

As more Republicans give in to President Barack Obama's health-care overhaul, an opposition bloc remains across the South, including from governors who lead some of the nation's poorest and unhealthiest states.

Kid-oriented event is unofficial kickoff to bridge run

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 18:58:00 EDT

The countdown is on for the Cooper River Bridge Run next Saturday as tens of thousands of people participate in the 10k race, but lots of families are looking forward to the day before the race.

Yorktown sheds light on autism awareness

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:51:00 EDT

On April 2, the USS Yorktown will "Light It Up Blue" in support of autism awareness and will stay blue for the whole month.

USDA expanding program to fight rural poverty

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 15:27:00 EDT

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is expanding a program intended to reduce poverty and improve life in rural areas through better access to federal money.

30-Day SNAP Challenge: Friends can be your worst enemy

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EDT

I'm in the midst of week 3 and I must admit – I never expected the reaction I've received so far.

Doctor finds loophole in mental health reporting system

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 17:51:00 EDT

An MUSC forensic psychiatrist says he doesn't know where to report patients who are dangerous, but do not meet requirements for being committed.

Life with epilepsy 'very different from what you once knew'

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 10:14:00 EDT

Imagine hearing a thud and finding someone you know laying there convulsing. In the Palmetto State, over 100,000 people have an active diagnosis of epilepsy.

DHEC wants to make getting permits in SC easier

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 23:33:00 EDT

The Department of Health and Environmental Control is taking several steps it says will simplify getting health and environmental permits.

State rep on DSS: 'It needs to be reformed'

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 19:39:00 EDT

A South Carolina representative says she is not surprised by an anonymous psychiatrist's complaints with the Department of Social Services.

Drug Co.: No one in SC was harmed in $327M case

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 13:46:00 EDT

A Johnson & Johnson subsidiary says South Carolina's high court should overturn a multi-million-dollar penalty over deceptive drug marketing, in part because no one in the state was hurt.

Psychiatrist: I did everything I can do

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 12:13:00 EDT

A Lowcountry psychiatrist revealed Wednesday that there are child patients who are being put at risk. The doctor, a child psychiatrist at Medical University Hospital, said child patients are being returned to homes where there's been documented abuse.

Tuesdays at the Joe just got a little more healthy

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 10:31:00 EDT

Heading to the ball game usually means peanuts and cracker jack, but the Charleston Riverdogs are doing their part to try to be a little more healthy...at least one day a week anyway.

DHEC discusses no food stamps for fatty foods idea

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 08:15:00 EDT

South Carolina health officials are holding their first of four public meetings to hear what foods should be removed from the list of eligible items for people on food stamps.

Report: CVS to demand employees provide weight, health info

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 18:52:00 EDT

CVS Caremark told its employees they will have to reveal their body weight, body fat and other medical information or face a $600 annual premium.

Study: Beaufort healthiest county in SC

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 08:31:00 EDT

A new study has ranked Beaufort County as the healthiest place in South Carolina.

Health officials: 1 in 50 school kids has autism

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 05:39:00 EDT

A government survey of parents in the U.S. says 1 in 50 schoolchildren has autism. That surpasses another federal estimate for the disorder.

How does an adjudication hearing work?

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 17:52:00 EDT

An forensic psychiatrist who testifies in Charleston's probate court hearings explains the process.

30-Day SNAP Challenge: Mind over matter

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 17:19:00 EDT

I have made my second and last grocery store trip for the 30-day challenge.

Palmetto Medical Initiative to benefit from NTB classic

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 16:16:00 EDT

From the Lowcountry to a country overseas, one local organization is raising money to build a new medical facility one putt at a time.

Mother of 2 finds way to get fit, invents Blast900

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 11:09:00 EDT

Missi Wolfe says she was always the cute, round girl with a really good personality. But 30 years later, there was nothing cute about her health.

30-Day SNAP Challenge: How many ways can you skin a cat?

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 19:37:00 EDT

I'm only 10 days into my 30-day food stamp challenge and I am exhausted.

Deadline nearing for DHEC applications to team

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 05:50:00 EDT

The deadline is here for applications to a contest that state health officials hope will encourage kids to stay active and healthy.

When should women lose their virginity? 21, says Charleston

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 18:55:00 EDT

When is the right time to lose your virginity? For Charleston's women, that answer is 21 years old, according to a survey done by a sugar daddy dating website.

Crawford: Frustrations led to flippant comment

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 17:19:00 EDT

The only emergency room doctor in South Carolina's Legislature says frustration over the refusal by Republicans to accept Medicaid expansion led to a flippant comment that was taken out of context.

Harris Teeter voluntarily recalls bakery rolls

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 21:47:00 EDT

Harris Teeter says it is voluntarily recalling a store-brand bakery product because it contains eggs, which is not listed on the ingredient label.

Cane Bay High School to host health fair Saturday

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:19:00 EDT

Cane Bay High School is hosting a community health fair on Saturday.

FDA adds heart risk warning to popular antibiotic

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 01:15:00 EDT

The Food and Drug Administration is warning doctors and patients that a widely used antibiotic from Pfizer can cause rare but deadly heart rhythms in some patients.

South Carolina House defeats Medicaid expansion

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 19:02:00 EDT

The South Carolina House has rejected attempts by Democrats to temporarily extend Medicaid eligibility to hundreds of thousands of poor adults.

South Carolina House debating Medicaid expansion

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 16:08:00 EDT

South Carolina House Democrats are urging Republicans to break from their caucus' stance and extend Medicaid eligibility to hundreds of thousands of residents.

DHEC seeks your input on proposed SNAP eligible food list

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:27:00 EDT

You can take the opportunity to tell DHEC officials what you think should be allowed on the state's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

SC targets 7th graders for whooping cough vaccine

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 09:17:00 EDT

South Carolina 7th graders will be forced to roll up their sleeves for a vaccine that will keep them in class and protect infants at home.

Louie's Kids: Juice Day is like drinking sunshine

Fri, 8 Mar 2013 13:47:00 EST

Students at Mitchell Elementary were in for a surprise Thursday when Louie's Kids showed up for lunch. Instead of cookies and cake they were given juice consisting of kale, apple, and carrot juice.

Walk set to raise awareness for junior diabetes

Fri, 8 Mar 2013 07:36:00 EST

Tens of thousands of people are diagnosed with diabetes each year. A walk planned for this weekend aims to raise awareness and money for research.

Sheheen: Take money for Medicaid expansion

Thu, 7 Mar 2013 18:46:00 EST

State Sen. Vincent Sheheen says South Carolina lawmakers should put political ideology aside and allow expansion of Medicaid under the federal health care law to thousands of additional adults.

Golfer takes aim at 36 holes from dawn 'til dusk

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 17:37:00 EST

From the outside looking in, what Moncks Corner resident Fred Gutierrez is doing today is something of any golfer's dreams.

Red Cross breaks ground on new North Charleston facility

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 16:54:00 EST

The American Red Cross and Mayor Keith Summey broke ground Wednesday on their new building that will be the future home of the Red Cross in the City of North Charleston.

SC bill would ban sale of e-cigs to kids

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 13:45:00 EST

A House panel has advanced a bill designed to keep electronic cigarettes out of juvenile's hands.

Autism scholar speaks at USC on growth of autism

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 06:05:00 EST

Understanding the growth of autism is the focus of an annual sociology lecture to be delivered in Columbia.

Ridgeville family upset with EMS response as child suffered

Tue, 5 Mar 2013 18:38:00 EST

A Dorchester County spokesperson says the average response time for the town of Ridgeville is six minutes, but a family in the middle of an emergency Saturday night said that wait was much closer to 30 minutes.

Roper Hospital offers free mammograms in March

Tue, 5 Mar 2013 16:31:00 EST

The Roper St. Francis Mount Pleasant Hospital Breast Cancer Center is offering free breast screenings and mammograms this month.

EMS 'cloud' technology cuts 3 minutes from response times

Fri, 1 Mar 2013 18:17:00 EST

When you call 911, a dispatcher answers. They know you need help as soon as possible. And for the past two years, Charleston County EMS has used a special technology to make that happen.

Charleston's Hospital District is now smoke free

Fri, 1 Mar 2013 10:29:00 EST

One year after MUSC's campus went smoke free, the ban extends to the sidewalks and streets near the hospitals as well.

Roper St. Francis set to open new helipad

Fri, 1 Mar 2013 03:47:00 EST

Roper St. Francis is ready to trim a few more minutes off the time for emergency patients to get care when they are flown in by helicopter. The hospital's new rooftop helipad is set to open on Friday.

MUSC neurosurgeon helps Columbia girl walk again

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 18:07:00 EST

A walk on the beach against the crash of the ocean is more than soothing for Megan Peebles; it's symbolic of a new life after a revolutionary new surgery at MUSC.

Boil water advisory lifted for portion of Berkeley County

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 09:07:00 EST

MONCKS CORNER, S.C. (WCIV) -- Berkeley County Water & Sanitation customers in the Berkeley Country Club Subdivision are no longer under a boil water advisory. Berkeley County Water & Sanitation issued the

Under the microscope: Studying Lowcountry hospital security

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 18:02:00 EST

A man will spend more than three years in prison after he escaped from the Berkeley County Jail last year and hid in a Myrtle Beach hospital.

Crews work to repair sewer pipe failure in Dorchester County

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 17:41:00 EST

Crews are working to repair a sewer pipe that failed on Monday on Orangeburg Road in Dorchester County.

CofC business students heading to Cameroon

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 16:20:00 EST

This weekend marks the departure for more than a dozen College of Charleston students who will travel to Cameroon, Africa for a 10-day service trip.

White House releases state-by-state sequester impact

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 20:27:00 EST

The White House on Sunday released state-by-state reports on the impact the sequester would have on jobs and families in the lower and middle class.

PDF: Read the full sequester impact report for South Carolina

Charleston's VA adds surgical robots to staff

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 10:42:00 EST

For the first time, Charleston's Veteran Affairs medical center has joined the elite collection of hospitals with surgical robots.

Palmetto Project receives $215,500 grant

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 19:11:00 EST

The AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation's Connections for Cardiovascular Health program today announced a grant of $215,510 to the Palmetto Project to support its Heart & Soul initiative.

Eat healthy on food stamps: Is it possible?

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 18:36:00 EST

Brenda Peart knows all too well what it's like to be on food stamps. She says they don't account for much but, there's a way to make do on a healthy appetite.

SNAP-based food fight turns to war of words for Sellers, Haley

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 18:35:00 EST

State Rep. Bakari Sellers (D-Bamberg) made a friendly challenge to Gov. Nikki Haley and Department of Social Services Director Lillian Koller on Friday to live on food stamps for one week.

Lowcountry reacts to proposed SC food stamp regulations

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 09:30:00 EST

On Thursday in Columbia, state leaders announced they will ask for a waiver from federal regulation in order to include healthy food as a requirement for SNAP participation.

Smithfield Packing recalls about 38,000 pounds of pork sausage

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 07:04:00 EST

Smithfield Packing Co. is recalling about 38,000 pounds of pork sausage that may contain small pieces of plastic, likely from gloves.

SC wants to discuss food stamp changes with feds

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 06:45:00 EST

Some may be surprised to learn obesity is the Palmetto State's No. 1 killer. State officials announced Thursday a plan to use food stamps as a way to curb unhealthy diets.

Kellogg's recalls Special K Red Berries due to glass fragments

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:49:00 EST

Kellogg Company has initiated a voluntary recall in the US of three sizes of Kellogg's Special K Red Berries cereal packages due to the possible presence of glass fragments.

16th annual Heart Ball shows off local talent

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:36:00 EST

The American Heart Association will be hosting its 16th Annual Heart Ball Art and Wine Auction on Saturday.

MUSC's bear clinic slated for Saturday

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 23:19:00 EST

The Medical University of South Carolina's Children's Hospital is hosting a special clinic on Saturday to treat a unique kind of patient. Doctors and children will be treating Teddy bears.

SC state employees could pay more for health care

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 22:22:00 EST

State employees in South Carolina would pay more for health care under the House Ways and Means budget plan.

Ex-DHHS employee indicted in SC agency data breach

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 12:49:00 EST

Two people have been indicted in connection with a data breach at South Carolina's Department of Health and Human Services.

Legal battle puts hospital plans on hold in Berkeley County

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 18:35:00 EST

For years, several Berkeley County communities have called for a new hospital in their neighborhood. They may have to wait several more.

Study: Better TV might improve kids' behavior

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 04:32:00 EST

A new study has found teaching parents to switch channels from violent shows to educational TV can improve preschoolers' behavior, even without getting them to watch less.

Flu outbreaks cancel visitation at 2 SC prisons

Sat, 16 Feb 2013 15:08:00 EST

A flu outbreak has caused authorities to cancel visitation this weekend at two prisons in Columbia.

How a Lowcountry man lost 355 lbs

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 19:21:00 EST

Many of us talk about it. Most complain, really. But very few actually do something about it when it comes to losing weight. Bryan Ganey is different.

Lowcountry man survives rare heart disorder

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 19:10:00 EST

It was just weeks before Christmas and 22-year-old Justin Repshas was cramming for final exams. He needed to let off a little steam so he went for a run. His feet pounded the streets of downtown Charleston. He felt good.

Free breast cancer screenings set for Charleston

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 04:22:00 EST

Women who live in the Charleston area have access to free breast cancer screenings this week.

Georgetown boy with dwarfism to have surgery at MUSC

Sat, 9 Feb 2013 17:21:00 EST

His mom, Noelle Lowe, said tests are scheduled for the second week of June. If all goes well, the third week of June 5-year-old Brarron will start chemotherapy treatments followed by the transfusion.

Foreign matter contamination triggers recall of country fried steaks

Fri, 8 Feb 2013 18:39:00 EST

AdvancePierre Foods, an Enid, Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 15,328 pounds of frozen, fully cooked country fried steak products because they may contain foreign materials

Mental health expert: Background check system flawed

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 22:51:00 EST

In the mid 1990s, the FBI created a database called the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. Mark Binkley with the state department of mental health believes the system is far from perfect.

Doctors prescribed injectable antipsychotic drugs for Boland

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 14:20:00 EST

Federal court documents reveal more about Alice Boland's struggles with mental health as she moved in and out of hospitals and courtrooms.

Southern diet, fried foods, may raise stroke risk

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 12:46:00 EST

A study finds that people who consume a lot of fried foods and drinks like sweet tea and soda were 41 percent more likely to suffer a stroke than people who ate that way about once a month.

Trident holds free heart-healthy events

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 09:06:00 EST

To help Lowcountry residents latch on to a healthier lifestyle, Trident Health is holding free Heart Health Events throughout the month of February including free heart screenings.

Medicaid expansion to be debated in Anderson

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 05:06:00 EST

The man who runs South Carolina's Medicaid program and the director of a hospital in Anderson will debate whether the state should accept federal money to expand Medicaid.

DHEC chief: Restrict food stamps, curb obesity

Wed, 6 Feb 2013 15:08:00 EST

South Carolina's public health chief says further restricting what people can buy with food stamps might be a way to cut down on the state's obesity problem.

DHEC shows HIV, AIDS impact on black community

Wed, 6 Feb 2013 05:22:00 EST

South Carolina health officials are marking the 13th annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day with a series of events.

Charleston mayor declares 'Go Red for Women' day

Tue, 5 Feb 2013 17:54:00 EST

Charleston Mayor Joe Riley declared Tuesday "Go Red for Women Day" in Charleston as a way to draw attention to heart disease in women.

Mt. Pleasant doctor using ecstasy to treat PTSD in veterans

Mon, 4 Feb 2013 18:07:00 EST

Five million people suffer from it every year. One in 13 will develop it in their lifetime. We're talking about post traumatic stress disorder.

Beaufort doctor pleads guilty to illegal pain pill prescriptions

Mon, 4 Feb 2013 17:11:00 EST

A Beaufort doctor pleaded guilty Monday in a federal courtroom in Charleston to illegally distributing prescription painkillers.

MUSC decks out newborns in red hats for heart health awareness

Sat, 2 Feb 2013 13:19:00 EST

Instead of pink and blue bonnets, newborns were decked out in red on Friday as part of national Wear Red Day, a promotion of heart health through the American Heart Association.

To ban or not to ban: The debate on sugary drinks and SNAP

Fri, 1 Feb 2013 17:02:00 EST

It's an idea that's been knocked around and shot down despite how logical it seems on the surface: Should sugary drinks be banned from the food stamp program?

Mom discovers she has heart disease in delivery room

Fri, 1 Feb 2013 09:51:00 EST

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the number one killer of women affecting around 43 million women in the United States alone.

Lawmakers want CPR skills part of graduation requirements

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 19:10:00 EST

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) – Before South Carolina high school students are handed their diplomas, several lawmakers want to make sure they are certified in a life saving skill. Last week, the two bills were

Stop your engines: DHEC honors local school for going green

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 13:54:00 EST

Daniel Island Academy got a visit from Department of Health and Environmental Control officials Tuesday.

Abortion opponents to march in Washington

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 05:21:00 EST

Abortion opponents plan to march in Washington today in a demonstration that coincides with the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that created a constitutional, nationwide right to abortion.

MUSC doctor awarded highest honor by governor

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 16:21:00 EST

Dr. Langdon Hartsock, associate professor and chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the Medical University of South Carolina, was recently awarded the Order of the Silver Crescent from Gov. Nikki Haley.

MUSC names new CEO, VP of clinical operations

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 11:45:00 EST

The Medical University of South Carolina announced Thursday it had secured a new Vice President of Clinical Operations and Executive Director.

'Foreign matter contamination' triggers frozen pizza recall

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 18:27:00 EST

Annie's Homegrown Inc., a Berkeley, Calif. establishment, is recalling an undetermined amount of frozen pizzas that may be contaminated with extraneous materials and are the subject of a Food and Drug Administration recall.

AHA, MUSC look for female heart survivors to share their story

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 12:46:00 EST

Has your life been touched by heart disease or stroke? The American Heart Association wants to share your story!

How to beat that traffic stress

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 10:02:00 EST

Luckily there are some stress reducing solutions to try as you gear up for your daily drive.

NYC soda size limit foes question racial fairness

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 05:40:00 EST

Opponents of New York City's limit on the size of sugary drinks are raising questions of racial fairness alongside other complaints as the novel restriction faces a court test.

SC Supreme Court hearing state health premium suit

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 05:19:00 EST

South Carolina highest court is taking up a lawsuit over increases in public workers' health insurance premiums.

Catholic Church reacts to 40th year of Roe v. Wade

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 11:52:00 EST

On Tuesday, Bishop Robert Guglielmone of the Diocese of Charleston is holding a special mass with abortion at its core. The mass is meant to honor the sanctity of human life and is being held at 12:05 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Nick Collins, Jr. home from the hospital; still fighting

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 21:41:00 EST

In December, Collins set a goal to be home by his birthday, Feb. 9. Nick beat his goal by two-and-a-half weeks. Throughout his journey, Collins says the community hasn't left his side.

Stem cell surgery a success for local cat

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 18:22:00 EST

A stem cell transplant study led to a Lowcountry cat taking part in a ground-breaking treatment Monday morning. Now, the experimental study might give her a new lease on life.

Easy new year's weight-loss inspiration before the CHS Tweet Up

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 17:54:00 EST

"I was going to turn 50 years old and my father passed away at age 57. I thought, 'Seven years, I'd like to live longer than that,'" Terry Davis said. She's lost 65 pounds over the last two years walking on her local Summerville trail.

Sex hormone could save your life

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 09:20:00 EST

The advertisements promise relief. They say you may have low testosterone, the hormone that puts hair on your chest and stokes your sex drive. They say there is a cure for what ails you. Of course, the symptoms are often the common maladies of middle age.

Kids ran, walked, rolled through Charleston Youth Marathon

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 18:45:00 EST

It's going to be an active weekend in the Lowcountry with the Charleston Marathon and Half Marathon on Saturday, but on Friday it was all about the younger runners.

SC infant mortality rate stabilizes while disparities widen

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 16:34:00 EST

South Carolina's infant mortality rate in 2011 remained stable at 7.4 deaths per 1,000 babies born, the state Department of Health and Environmental Control announced Friday.

Target recalls 560,000 children's pajamas for flammability

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 11:49:00 EST

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced this week that Target was recalling a line of children's pajamas because they fail to meet federal flammability standards.

SC health officials warn of stomach bug norovirus

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 07:48:00 EST

South Carolina health officials warn that January marks the rise of the stomach ailment known as norovirus.

ER visits tied to energy drinks double since 2007

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 05:23:00 EST

A new government survey suggests the number of people seeking emergency treatment after consuming energy drinks has doubled nationwide in a recent four-year span.

CofC considers campus-wide smoking ban, expanding existing one

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 13:33:00 EST

The College of Charleston's Faculty Senate will discuss passing a resolution making CofC a completely tobacco-free campus.

Myrtle Beach nightclub bans smoking

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 09:32:00 EST

A nightclub at the Broadway at the Beach complex in Myrtle Beach has banned smoking.

HPV vaccine issue returns to legislature

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 18:42:00 EST

The state legislature will decide whether to provide information and optional HPV vaccines to seventh grade students and their families.

MUSC eye doc gives gift of sight to Guatemalan children

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 11:34:00 EST

The smile. That's all to be seen on the faces of a group of Guatemalan children. Some are opening their eyes to sight for the first time in their lives. Others are, for the first time, looking into a mirror and their eyes are looking straight back at them.

Sellers to propose bill to make HPV vaccine available to 7th graders

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 10:52:00 EST

State Rep. Bakari Sellers is set to announce Monday new legislation that would make the HPV vaccine available to seventh graders.

DHEC: 22 have died from flu in South Carolina

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 13:23:00 EST

State health officials say at least 22 people have died from influenza in South Carolina since the fall.

Hospitals limit visitation to curb spread of flu

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 15:55:00 EST

Roper Saint Francis Hospital has changed their position on imposing new visitor restrictions in the labor and delivery areas.

6 people exposed to rabies-positive cat in Charleston County

Wed, 9 Jan 2013 17:02:00 EST

Five adults and one teen in Charleston County have been exposed to a cat that tested positive for rabies, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control reported on Wednesday.

Charleston making hospital area no smoking zone

Wed, 9 Jan 2013 09:58:00 EST

The City of Charleston is imposing a new smoking ban for outdoor areas in the city's hospital district.

Goose Creek smoking ban passes; takes effect July 1

Wed, 9 Jan 2013 07:28:00 EST

Another Lowcountry city council put a stop to smoking in public places. Goose Creek council members approved a city-wide smoking ban Tuesday night.

Cancer Society 20-year study aims to eradicate cancer

Tue, 8 Jan 2013 18:11:00 EST

Often people who have loved ones battling cancer feel like they are not able to do enough. The American Cancer Society is conducting a study that could help fight against the disease, and is looking for participants.

SC teen birth rate hits all-time low

Tue, 8 Jan 2013 15:44:00 EST

For the fourth consecutive year, teen birth rates in South Carolina have declined, once again reaching an all-time low.

People who want to nullify 'Obamacare' rally in SC

Tue, 8 Jan 2013 13:24:00 EST

Several hundred people rallied at the Statehouse in support of a South Carolina bill that would declare the new health care law supported by President Barack Obama unconstitutional

Warning issued to inspect Fisher-Price infant sleepers

Tue, 8 Jan 2013 12:13:00 EST

The government is warning consumers to inspect Fisher-Price Newborn Rock 'N Play Sleepers due to risk of exposure to mold for infants who use them.

SC's Graham in Columbia to talk about debt limit

Tue, 8 Jan 2013 05:15:00 EST

U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham is set to visit South Carolina to discuss the Capitol Hill debate over raising the country's debt limit.

Surgeries a success for Gamecocks' Shaw, Cooper

Fri, 4 Jan 2013 17:10:00 EST

University of South Carolina junior quarterback Connor Shaw and redshirt freshman linebacker Cedrick Cooper underwent successful surgeries today, according to the Gamecocks' team physician, Dr. Jeffrey Guy.

SC flu season hits hard and early

Fri, 4 Jan 2013 08:24:00 EST

So far, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control report 15 deaths from the illness. Just this past weekend, the Charleston County coroner says a 73-year-old from James Island died from the flu.

Elderly James Island woman dies of the flu

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 14:45:00 EST

The coroner's office has confirmed a flu death in Charleston County and while this may be the first one they know about, there could me many more that are unreported.

SC insurance agency extending service hours

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 04:39:00 EST

The S.C. Department of Insurance is extending its customer service hours.

Unborn baby grabs doctor's finger

Wed, 2 Jan 2013 17:15:00 EST

A snapshot of a baby's birth is going viral. Unborn Naveah Atkins reached out of her mother's womb and grabbed the finger of the doctor performing her delivery.

Brain image study: Fructose may spur overeating

Wed, 2 Jan 2013 08:08:00 EST

Scientists say that for the first time, imaging tests show that fructose can trigger brain changes that may lead to overeating.

Flu season begins with a vengeance

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 10:45:00 EST

Health officials say flu season is early this year - and the Carolinas are feeling the pain.

Budget struggle raising anxiety for health care

Sat, 29 Dec 2012 10:13:00 EST

Confused about the federal budget struggle? So are doctors, hospital administrators and other professionals who serve the 100 million Americans covered by Medicare and Medicaid.

More flu cases reported in coastal South Carolina areas

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 11:55:00 EST

Checking for clear lungs is what many doctors are listening for as more patients with flu like symptoms come through the doors.

SC receiving nearly 350 new school buses

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 12:48:00 EST

South Carolina schools chief Mick Zais is announcing the delivery of 342 new school buses that will replace buses up to 28 years old.

Unpacking the holiday pounds

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 08:35:00 EST

At East Shore Athletic Club on Johnnie Dodds Wednesday, Andre LeClerc was back at the fitness routine after a busy holiday eating week.

Toddler recovering after second open heart surgery

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 08:32:00 EST

The holidays are a special time when many people count their blessings. For one Lowcountry family, that's especially true.

SC gets $2.4M bonus for improving Medicaid access

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:49:00 EST

South Carolina has been rewarded for enrolling more eligible children in Medicaid services.

SC councilman to give update on lead cleanup

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 05:18:00 EST

A Columbia city councilman is giving an update on efforts to clean up lead contamination in a downtown neighborhood.

Family gives back to MUSC with stuffed animals, toys

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 08:35:00 EST

Lions, tigers and Teddy bears arrived at MUSC's Children's Hospital on Thursday in memory of 7-month-old Kirby Faith Bradley, who passed away last month.

Goose Creek reconsiders smoking ban for town

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:31:00 EST

It's been three years since the town of Goose Creek discussed a smoking ban.

Runners hit the road in their jammies for a good cause

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 10:13:00 EST

The 5th annual Charleston 5K Pajama Run raised money for the Hollings Cancer Center this weekend and all the money that was raised was donated towards research that focuses on cancers below the waist.

Bounce houses a party hit but kids' injuries soar

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 05:26:00 EST

A new study says injuries from the use of a kids' party attraction have skyrocketed along with the popularity of inflatable bounce houses.

Born addicted

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 19:47:00 EST

The level two nursery at MUSC is unusually quiet as a North Carolina couple cuddles an infant, tightly swaddled in one of those all-too-familiar white blankets with blue and pink stripes.

Gamecocks best Tigers in Blood Battle

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 19:31:00 EST

Another Blood Battle is in the books.

Gamecocks beating Clemson in off-the-field matchup

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 10:07:00 EST

Not that permission needs to be given here, but let the trash talk between Clemson and Carolina begin.

Death spurs recall of 220,000 infant travel beds

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 10:08:00 EST

A children's safety equipment manufacturer has agreed to recall about 220,000 infant travel beds after reports of one infant's death and nine others entrapped or distressed while inside the portable sleep tents.

Haley, other officials discussing infant mortality

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 08:58:00 EST

South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley is discussing the state's infant mortality rate.

Cell phone scare: What really lies on the surface?

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 18:51:00 EST

Cell phones: We carry them in our pockets and purses every day. But have you ever wondered what else those mobile devices might be carrying?

Haley reaffirms no to health exchange

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 18:47:00 EST

Gov. Nikki Haley has told the federal government South Carolina won't set up a state health exchange, saying President Obama's re-election did not change her stance.

MUSC College of Nursing receives $250,000 donation

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 15:04:00 EST

The BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina made a $250,000 donation to the MUSC College of Nursing on Thursday.

Owner of meningitis-linked pharmacy refuses to speak to Congress

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 12:51:00 EST

The owner and director of the specialty pharmacy tied to a deadly meningitis outbreak has declined to testify before a congressional committee investigating the matter.

World Diabetes Day being observed in SC

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 11:26:00 EST

The staff at the Medical University of South Carolina is helping mark World Diabetes Day.

Charleston City Council considers huffing ordinance

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 19:39:00 EST

City council is considering a change to an ordinance to include huffing. Experts support the idea, saying the medical realities of huffing could be very dangerous.

Report: Feds wanted to shut down Mass. pharmacy tied to meningitis in '03

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 15:47:00 EST

The Massachusetts pharmacy linked to a recent deadly meningitis outbreak has had run-ins with regulators before.

USC fans leading Clemson faithful in 'Donate Life Duel'

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 12:41:00 EST

It began Oct. 1: A competition between fans of Clemson and the University of South Carolina to register as organ donors.

What to know about PTSD and Veterans

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 09:15:00 EST

The VA Medical Center wants all PTSD sufferers to give them a call.

Study links flu during pregnancy to autism

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 08:55:00 EST

Researchers in Denmark teamed up with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and their results may have found a link between mothers who have the flu during their pregnancy and an increased risk of autism.

Nestle recalls Nesquik due to salmonella risk

Fri, 9 Nov 2012 14:38:00 EST

Nestle USA is recalling some of its Nesquik chocolate powder because of a possible salmonella risk.

Long-term plans help local family in crisis

Thu, 8 Nov 2012 08:09:00 EST

According to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 70 percent of people who reach 65 will require long-term care.

Support your team with the gift of life: The Blood Battle is coming

Wed, 7 Nov 2012 12:06:00 EST

Whether you're wearing garnet and black or orange and purple, we all have the chance to support our favorite team and save lives at the same time.

New, kid-friendly after-hours clinic open in Mount Pleasant

Mon, 5 Nov 2012 18:43:00 EST

A new kid-friendly clinic is now open in Mount Pleasant, offering more options for parents with kids who need urgent care after hours.

MUSC to unveil after-hours pediatric urgent care facility

Fri, 2 Nov 2012 18:02:00 EDT

Medical University of South Carolina officials are slated to unveil a new after-hours pediatric urgent care facility.

The truth about e-cigs: How healthy are they?

Fri, 2 Nov 2012 17:46:00 EDT

Ron Sena smoked a pack-a-day for 40 years. His addiction to nicotine followed him everywhere he went – even in the Intensive Care Unit. But, it wasn't until he was introduced to electronic cigarettes that he was able to get rid of his tobacco habit.

Mass. firm tied to closed pharmacy issues recall

Fri, 2 Nov 2012 11:43:00 EDT

A company with the same founders as the specialty pharmacy linked to deadly meningitis outbreak says it's recalling all its products.