Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that modern Americans are much fatter than they were just a few decades ago. Take one look around a shopping center or strip mall and it seems that half the people present are struggling with obesity. Recent data from the CDC supports those observations - more than 39% of adults in the United States were considered obese from 2015-2016. That number is up from 33.7 percent in 2007-2008.
Perhaps more alarming is the fact that severe obesity is on the rise as well. The same report from the CDC tells us that nearly 8% of Americans were severely obese from 2015-2016, which is up from 5.7% in 2007-2008. When you read between the lines, those statistics mean that almost 4 in 10 adults are obese in the U.S., and almost 1 in 13 are severely obese.
Unfortunately, "fixing" obesity isn't something that can be done overnight. There is no quick fix that is also safe and non-surgical. The obesity problem in the U.S. is only getting worse as more adults and children choose the ease and convenience of fast food sugar-packed products over healthy eating, exercise, and positive lifestyle choices.
Besides the challenges of being overweight, like clothes that don't fit and hurtful comments, the health risks are much more serious. Obesity can endanger your life, and those who rely on you may lose you earlier than expected. Over time, the likelihood of developing severe and life-altering health problems grows.
The good news is that a new medication called semaglutide in Camden, SC, is available for people struggling with obesity. This game-changing treatment approaches obesity as a chronic metabolic disease rather than a problem that can be solved through willpower alone.
At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, we now ioffer semaglutide as part of our custom weight loss program. If you've been struggling with obesity and have tried other diets with little to no success, don't lose hope. With the help of our medical and nutritional providers, you can lose weight, keep it off, and take meaningful steps toward better health.
Our weight loss program with semaglutide starts with a comprehensive consultation and evaluation process. During this phase, we will determine the ideal semaglutide dosage for you and provide personalized nutrition and exercise guidelines. Once we have a better understanding of your body and your weight loss goals, you'll begin receiving regular injections of semaglutide in Camden, SC.
It's your responsibility to incorporate lifestyle changes, specifically in your diet and exercise, to reach your weight loss goals. However, we'll be there every step of the way and conduct regular check-ins to help you stay on course. We'll also closely monitor your progress and overall health to ensure that your weight loss is safe and sustainable. The purpose of our semaglutide weight loss program is to offer a comprehensive weight loss treatment that helps you achieve natural, long-lasting results. That's the VIP Cosmetic Surgery difference.
Patients who sign up for our semaglutide weight loss program benefit from the following:
For semaglutide to have the biggest impact on your weight, you've got to make changes to your diet. When you eat nutrient-dense, whole foods that support weight loss and healthy living, you're setting yourself up for long-term weight loss. Our nutrition plans are comprehensive and customized to your needs and lifestyle. That way, when you're ready to make real changes in your life, we'll be there with a nutrition plan you can follow to make the journey easier and more sustainable.
One of the biggest reasons why people fail to achieve their weight loss goals is because they try to do it all on their own. When you sign up for VIP Cosmetic Surgery's semaglutide program, you benefit from monthly check-ins with Dr. Farr to see how your progress is going. During this meeting, you can talk to the doctor about your progress and what hurdles you're still trying to overcome. The doctor will give you advice and guidance based on his experience and - perhaps most importantly - help keep you on track so that you can lose weight and keep it off for good.
Our practitioners will provide tests to ensure that your body is healthy, hydrated, and well-fed. By checking your hydration and nutrition levels, we can help ensure you're losing weight in a healthy manner and not starving yourself. By maintaining optimal health throughout your weight loss journey, you're giving yourself the best shot at long-term weight loss.
For individuals working to lose weight and stay healthy, sticking to a consistent diet and exercise routine can be tough. Between work obligations and important tasks like picking your kids up from school, there just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day to eat healthy foods. After all, McDonald's is on the way home, and your little ones are screaming for food.
Fortunately, many busy people find semaglutide to be a valuable tool in their weight loss journey. This FDA-approved injection, used for treating both diabetes and obesity, functions by activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain to aid in weight loss and promote long-term health.
In more simple terms, semaglutide imitates glucagon in the body, signaling to the brain that you're full and don't need to eat more. When you take semaglutide and try to overeat, your body sends a message that says, "That's enough." In essence, it makes you feel full, so you're less likely to binge eat, especially at night when food tends to sit in your stomach.
Semaglutide also slows down digestion, reducing unnecessary snacking throughout the day. By minimizing glucose spikes after meals, it lowers inflammation, which is a crucial step in optimizing your overall health. Moreover, Semaglutide assists in insulin secretion by the pancreas regulates glucose levels in the body and even possesses anti-aging and longevity properties. If you're struggling with weight loss, treatments such as semaglutide can make a substantial difference for you.
In summary, semaglutide helps you lose weight in a few different ways, including:
At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, one of the most frequently asked questions our providers receive from curious weight loss patients is whether or not semaglutide is supported by clinical trials. As it turns out, many trials have been conducted measuring the efficacy of semaglutide for weight loss, and the results are very promising.
Semaglutide is designed for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher who are attempting to shed at least 10% of their total body weight without success with other methods. Clinical trials involving over 1,900 obese adults who were unable to lose five percent of their body weight after a year of treatment with other medications demonstrated that semaglutide increased average weight loss from 2% to 20% over a treatment period of just over one year compared to a placebo.
In a different trial involving 1,387 patients with obesity (but not type 2 diabetes), participants were randomly assigned to different doses of semaglutide: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or placebo for 104 weeks. The group that took the higher dose of semaglutide lost an average of 31 pounds, while those on the lower dose lost an average of 11 pounds.
According to the NCBI, the Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People With Obesity (STEP) trials have shown the efficacy of semaglutide, as well. In large randomized controlled trials, patients who received 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide lost a mean of 6% of their weight after 12 weeks and 12% of their weight after 28 weeks.
So, what do all these statistics mean for you? If you're looking to shed some pounds, it's worth giving semaglutide injections a shot. This type of treatment isn't a miracle drug, but it can significantly boost your chances of weight loss success. That's why, at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, we have incorporated semaglutide as a fresh treatment option for individuals grappling with obesity, especially those who have exhausted other remedies and are seeking something new.
As is the case with promising therapies like semaglutide, people considering the drug have a lot of questions about whether it's right for them. Keep reading to get answers to some of the most common questions relating to semaglutide.
If you're an adult dealing with obesity, excessive weight, or weight-related medical conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure, semaglutide injections could be a suitable option for you. To qualify for semaglutide weight loss services at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you must meet the BMI range criteria established by the FDA. If you're unsure whether semaglutide injections are the right choice for you, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our weight loss practitioners today.
Our doctors and practitioners often hear from patients asking whether semaglutide is safe for long-term use. It's natural to have concerns about a medication that impacts your body. Simply put, as long as you meet the criteria, it is safe to take this weight-loss medication. Even patients with endocrine, kidney, heart, and liver conditions can safely use semaglutide. As of June 4, 2021, the Food & Drug Administration has given the green light for semaglutide injections (2.4mg once weekly) for chronic weight management in adults with obesity and at least one weight-related condition.
Weight loss medications such as semaglutide may cause people to regain weight once the treatment is stopped. According to a clinical trial featured in Practice Update, participants regained 11.6% of their lost body weight within a year of discontinuing semaglutide medication and lifestyle intervention. Researchers suggest that this weight gain could be linked to the reversal of the cardiovascular benefits associated with semaglutide treatment, including stable blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
This data underscores the importance of continued medication and ongoing treatment for obesity as a chronic health condition to effectively manage its impact on quality of life and heart health. The key takeaway here is that due to its nature as a weight loss treatment, it's best to take regularly over time for the best results.
That length of time will vary depending on factors such as:
There's no question about it - semaglutide is making waves in the medical community. Thousands of obese men and women in the U.S. are using the treatment to get a handle on their weight and live healthy lives. With its ability to reduce blood sugar levels and facilitate weight loss, it makes sense that patients are looking for ways to get the most out of their regimen.
Keep reading to learn a few of the best tips to maximize your journey with semaglutide.
Before you start taking semaglutide or make any changes to your treatment plan, make sure to discuss it with your healthcare provider who prescribes semaglutide. They will evaluate your specific needs, determine the right dosage for you, and give you important instructions on how to use the medication properly. At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, our weight loss practitioners work one-on-one with every patient who takes semaglutide to ensure they're staying healthy, hydrated, and committed to our semaglutide program.
Make sure to keep a close eye on your blood sugar levels as recommended by your semaglutide provider. While semaglutide can assist in reducing blood sugar levels, it's important to regularly monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. When you begin a weight loss program at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you can rest easy knowing we check your blood sugar levels periodically.
Regular physical activity can boost the effects of semaglutide. It's best to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 3-4 times a week to support weight loss and overall health improvements.
It's important to understand that results may not happen right away and could take some time to become noticeable. Try to be patient as you follow your treatment plan, maintain consistency with lifestyle changes, and have confidence that positive results will come gradually.
To maximize the effectiveness of semaglutide, it's very beneficial to eat a well-rounded diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Always try to choose nutrient-rich options over high-calorie, high-fat foods. That way, you can achieve your weight loss objectives quicker. When you work with weight loss experts like the doctors at VIP Cosmetic Surgery, you'll have access to customized nutrition plans that will help expedite your weight loss and keep off the pounds once you reach your goals.
Make sure to set up regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to track your progress, make any necessary changes to your treatment plan, and talk about any concerns or questions you might have. At VIP Cosmetic Surgery, follow-ups and check-ins are built into our semaglutide program, giving you one less thing to worry about as you lose weight.
Are you striving to reach a healthy weight and live a more fulfilling life? Are you eager to have a positive impact on yourself and your loved ones? Take the first step toward better health by contacting VIP Cosmetic Surgery. Our experienced, compassionate practitioners will collaborate with you to identify your weight-loss goals. Once we know more about you and your body, we'll create a custom plan and provide the cutting-edge strategies and treatments you need to see real results. If you're ready to make a meaningful change, we're ready to guide you on the path to success.
MUSC Health has broken ground on a new women’s center in Camden, a city of more than 8,000 people about 30 minutes from Columbia. Camden Mayor Alfred Mae Drakeford welcomed the news. “I believe Kershaw County is ready for a comprehensive health care center for women.”That's because the county and surrounding region have grown almost 20% over the past 10 years, according to the organization Kershaw County Economic Development. ...
MUSC Health has broken ground on a new women’s center in Camden, a city of more than 8,000 people about 30 minutes from Columbia. Camden Mayor Alfred Mae Drakeford welcomed the news. “I believe Kershaw County is ready for a comprehensive health care center for women.”
That's because the county and surrounding region have grown almost 20% over the past 10 years, according to the organization Kershaw County Economic Development. South Carolina Public Radio reported that Camden, in particular, is “experiencing a significant economic resurgence.”
Tallulah Holmstrom, M.D., chief medical officer for the MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center, said the people who live in the area, whether they’re newcomers or long-time residents, need high-quality care that grows with the community. The MUSC Health Camden Pavilion will consolidate several existing ambulatory sites into one comprehensive center dedicated to the health of women throughout Kershaw County.
Holmstrom noted that the new building, the first that MUSC Health has built in its Midlands Division, sends a message. “This building is a visual commitment to the community – a commitment that the three-hospital division, launched in 2021, is a key part of MUSC Health’s plans for growth to serve people across the state,” she said. “The new building will be big – about 14,000 square feet. The majority of it will be dedicated to OB-GYN services.”
Key features of the building at 2034 West DeKalb St. include:
Holmstrom highlighted the value of 3D mammograms. The women’s center will use the company Hologic’s 3Dimensions Mammography System. Hologic says on its website that its 3D mammograms can spot 20% to 65% more invasive breast cancers than traditional 2D mammograms can. “This is top of the line. It is leaps and bounds ahead of older technology,” Holmstrom said.
Camden’s mayor said the new women’s center will provide an important new option for residents of Kershaw County and the surrounding communities. “Currently, many of us have to go out of the county for our health care needs. Having a center here will greatly impact our community. Thank you to MUSC Health for making this a reality.”
Playoffs have reached the quarterfinals - with every game in the Palmetto State being an elimination gameThe 2024 South Carolina high school football postseason is in high gear - reaching the quarterfinal round - and SBLive Sports is the place to follow of the live scoring updates and finals.Follow the action get the most to date scores by tracking the ...
Playoffs have reached the quarterfinals - with every game in the Palmetto State being an elimination game
The 2024 South Carolina high school football postseason is in high gear - reaching the quarterfinal round - and SBLive Sports is the place to follow of the live scoring updates and finals.
Follow the action get the most to date scores by tracking the SBLive South Carolina High School Football Scoreboard. We will have in-game score updates and all of the final scores from every corner of the state. You can also search for full schedules and complete scores from all of your very favorite teams.
Here's a guide to following all of the South Carolina high school football this week.
STATEWIDE SOUTH CAROLINA FOOTBALL SCOREBOARD
CLASS 5A SCORES | CLASS 4A SCORES
CLASS 3A SCORES | CLASS 2A SCORES
SCISA CLASS AAAA | SCISA CLASS AAA
2024 SOUTH CAROLINA FOOTBALL SCHEDULES: FIND YOUR TEAM
Can't make it to your favorite team's game but still want to watch them live? You can watch dozens of South Carolina high school football games live on the NFHS Network:
We also invite you to visit the brand new South Carolina homepage on High School on SI, powered by SBLive Sports, for the latest news, highlights, analysis, scores, photos and information on South Carolina high school sports. Follow our live game coverage and read our feature stories, breaking news, the latest recruiting news, rankings and much more.
Be sure to Bookmark High School on SI for all of the latest high school football news.
To get live updates on your phone - as well as follow your favorite teams and top games - you can download the SBLive Sports app: Download iPhone App | Download Android App
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Published Nov 28, 2024
CAMDEN, S.C. (WIS) - The Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office is investigating whether or not human remains found in woods on Tuesday night are of a man who went missing in 2018.Bones were found by children playing in the woods near East York Street off Bishopville Highway in Camden, according to the sheriff’s office.Kershaw County Sheriff Lee Boan asked family members of missing person William “Bill” Black to submit their DNA for a possible match.Alan Black, Bill Black’s brother, said he and his...
CAMDEN, S.C. (WIS) - The Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office is investigating whether or not human remains found in woods on Tuesday night are of a man who went missing in 2018.
Bones were found by children playing in the woods near East York Street off Bishopville Highway in Camden, according to the sheriff’s office.
Kershaw County Sheriff Lee Boan asked family members of missing person William “Bill” Black to submit their DNA for a possible match.
Alan Black, Bill Black’s brother, said he and his nephew had to give cheek swabs at a DNA lab in Gastonia, North Carolina, that can expedite test results.
Alan Black strongly believes the remains found Tuesday night are his brother’s.
“Due to the proximity of that neighborhood, he lives in. White male with a broken nose and the sole of an Adidas shoe,” said Alan Black.
Deputies from both the Richland County Sheriff’s Office and the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Department were searching the area for clues on Wednesday afternoon.
“The persons been back there for a good period of time. I don’t know how long. At this point there’s no apparent cause of death,” said Kershaw County Sheriff Lee Boan.
Boan said deputies found a skull with damage on what appeared to be in damage near the nose. They also found the sole of an Adidas shoe.
The local coroner’s office submitted images of the remains to a specialist, hoping they may be able to determine a cause of death, Boan said.
“There’s a lot of possibilities it could be at this point here, and everything here would be speculating,” he said. “We’ve seen no apparent causes of death from what we’ve seen thus far.”
With years of searching, Alan Black is hopeful for closure.
“It’s been six long years August of 2018. Hundreds probably thousands of hours I’ve searched. Just not that area. He’s my only brother and I love him and I miss him,” said Black.
While the coroner’s office had not yet identified the DNA of the remains, Alan Black said Bill Black had Adidas shoes. Alan Black said he was with his brother when he bought them.
Boan said they expect the results of the DNA testing and images to come back as soon as next week.
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Only one council member will remain by December, as four will vacate their positions, including the mayor.More VideosCAMDEN, S.C. — The composition of the Camden City Council will look quite different in the new year. Only one of the current five council members, Hamilton Boykin, will remain in office.Boykin will be joined by three newcomers—William Wilkes, a Camden native, and Phil Elliott, a retired member of the Camden Fire Dep...
Only one council member will remain by December, as four will vacate their positions, including the mayor.
CAMDEN, S.C. — The composition of the Camden City Council will look quite different in the new year. Only one of the current five council members, Hamilton Boykin, will remain in office.
Boykin will be joined by three newcomers—William Wilkes, a Camden native, and Phil Elliott, a retired member of the Camden Fire Department—who were elected as council members along with Vincent Sheheen who was elected as mayor.
Sheheen, a former state senator, was unavailable for an interview before our deadline for this story. But he outlined his priorities in a Facebook post back in April. He emphasized stabilizing utility bills, attracting a new grocery store to the area, and encouraging affordable housing.
This change in leadership follows the decision of current Mayor Alfred Mae Drakeford and Councilmember Stephen Smoak not to seek re-election. Councilmember Joanna Craig lost her seat in the election and Jeffery Graham who will vacate his seat following his win for Senate District 35 last Tuesday.
A special election will be held at a later date for Graham's seat.
In interviews with News19, Elliott and Wilkes outlined their major goals for Camden's future. Both men emphasized the importance of managing the city's growth, particularly in terms of utility costs and development.
"I have grandkids that I want to see grow up here and I want to keep Camden Camden," Elliott said. 'That’s why I got interested. A couple of things Camden’s faced with some high utility rates right now with water, electricity, and sewage, and all and I am looking forward to getting in there to see what we can do to help our citizens out with that."
Wilkes, who has deep roots in the community, agreed that responsible growth was essential for the city's prosperity. "Certainly Camden’s going to continue to grow. We want that we want Camden to prosper. But we also want to create a Camden that works for everyone, and when you have unbridled development that outpaces responsible growth, at the end of the day, the only people that end up benefiting from that are developers."
Elliott added, "You’ve got to grow to keep support the community, but it needs to be controlled growth, I want to get in there and look at the plans that's been made so far. Now, We have a moratorium on building that will give us a little time to meet with council to come up with a better plan to allow the growth to make it be a controlled growth."
The newly elected council members will take office on December 10.
A date for the special election to fill the seat left by Graham’s move to the state senate has not yet been set.
The city also welcomed Matt DeWitt to the vacated city manager position over the summer.