Drug Testing in Camden, South Carolina

Drug Overdose Death Statistics in South Carolina

Unintentional drug overdose deaths in South Carolina appear to be on an upward trajectory. According to The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control's 2018 Drug Overdose Report, unintentional drug overdose deaths in the state nearly doubled from 547 in 2009 to 1,030 in 2018.

In 2018, there were a total of 1,103 total drug overdose deaths in South Carolina. These were attributed to the following substances:

• Prescription Drugs - 863
• Opioids - 816
• Psychostimulants w/ abuse potential - 242
• Fentanyl - 460
• Heroin - 168
• Methadone - 57
• Cocaine - 254

In Camden's Kershaw County, there were 13 drug overdoses in 2018. Of these, 11 were attributed to opioid use. This reflects an 85.7% increase in total drug overdoses from 2017 to 2018. Unfortunately, this makes it clear that Camden and the surrounding area has not escaped the deadly impact of drug abuse.

The COVID-19 Pandemic Increases Overdoses in South Carolina

Amidst the isolation created by the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, another deadly epidemic has reared its head. Statistics show that drug overdose deaths in South Carolina have spiked sharply since the pandemic began affecting the state's residents in March. In July of 2020, opioid overdoses were up 50% as compared to the same time in 2019. In the month of May alone, South Carolina had a record number of overdoses, 915, as compared with 540 overdoses in May of 2019.

Experts attribute this disturbing trend to a number of pandemic-related factors including social isolation, separation from treatment options, and disruption in daily routines. Sadly, the Coronavirus has robbed many recovering addicts of the most important pillars of sobriety. Area treatment centers have changed their methods, hoping to reach their patients and reengage them before these circumstances claim even more lives.

The Local Economy, Jobs, and Major Industries in Camden

According to a recent report by The City of Camden, the top employers and industries in Camden are:

• Kershaw Health (healthcare)
• Kershaw County Government (local government)
• Walmart (retail)
• Kershaw County School District (PK-12 education)
• Hengst of North America (manufacturing - vehicle filters)
• Cantey Foundation Specialists (construction)
• City of Camden (local government)
• Haier America/General Electric (manufacturing - refrigerators and freezers)

The average income in Camden is $31,352 per year, which is higher than the national average. However, the median household income of $47,962 is over $5,800 less than the U.S. average.