Letter from the Health Officer
Dear Community Member,
January is the most bittersweet of months. Alongside the promise and opportunity of a fresh new year, it also calls us to consider the passing of time and where we stand relative to our goals and expectations—our wins and losses, our victories and our failures.
Perhaps, like me, you're embracing the fresh start with resolutions for 2025. A recent survey found that 57% of Americans plan to make resolutions this year. It's no surprise that the top resolutions center around health and wealth. The number one specific goal, reported by 21% of respondents, is to save more money. Other popular resolutions, such as eating healthier (19%) and exercising more (17%), prioritize physical well-being. As a public health professional—and as someone who also strives to make healthier choices—I wholeheartedly support these resolutions. However, I’m also mindful that the second Friday of January is known as 'Quitter’s Day,' since surveys show that roughly 80% of people abandon their resolutions by this date.
This year's "Quitter's Day" is Friday, Jan.10, which is probably close to when you're reading this newsletter. I encourage you to use this moment as a reminder to renew your commitment. One of the largest studies on the subject found that it takes between 18 and 254 days to form a new habit, with a median of 66 days (Lally et al., 2009). If we can successfully push past “Quitter’s Day," we can approach the window of time when new habits begin to stick. That same study, along with many others, emphasizes that consistency and accountability are critical to success; create a clear, realistic plan and find an accountability partner to help you stay on track.
I wish you the very best in your health journey! Your friends at the Kent County Health Department will do everything we can in 2025 to serve, protect, and promote a healthy community for all.
Adam London, PhD, RS, DAAS
Administrative Health Officer
Pictured above is Adam London, Kent County Health Department Director.
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Temporary Relocation of Services Due to Renovations
Please be aware that several services have been temporarily relocated within our existing facilities due to renovations occurring at our main clinic, located at 700 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
The following services have moved to alternate clinic locations:
- Women, Infants & Children
- Immunizations
Alternate clinic locations include:
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North Clinic: 4191 17 Mile Rd. NE, Cedar Springs, MI 49319
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South Clinic: 4700 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Kentwood, MI 49508
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Sheldon Clinic: 121 Franklin SE, Ste. 130, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
The renovation project, slated for completion by early 2026, aims to enhance patient confidentiality and expand service capacity by adding separate waiting rooms, exam rooms, and soundproofing.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call us at 616-632-7200.
Kickstart the New Year with Winter Wellness
There's a saying you might have heard that goes a little something like, "if you choose not to find joy in the snow, you'll have less joy in your life, but the same amount of snow."
This New Year, why not choose to embrace winter instead—seeing it as an opportunity to stay true to health-focused resolutions while exploring the more than 100 miles of trails Kent County has to offer?
Rolling hills and diverse terrain at Wahlfield Park, for example, provide the perfect setting for improving:
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Physical Health: Boost your cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and enhance endurance by engaging in winter activities like hiking, cross-country skiing, and fat-tire biking.
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Mental Health: Natural light improves your mood, reduces stress, and helps combat the winter blues, keeping your spirits high as you work toward your goals.
Of course, it's important to be safe when spending time outdoors in the winter by dressing in warm, moisture-wicking layers and watching for signs of hypothermia and frostbite. As with any new fitness routine, always consult your doctor before starting—especially if you have existing health concerns or are new to physical activity.
Pick Up a Free Radon Test Kit This January, While Supplies Last
We're teaming up with Kent District Library (KDL) to provide free radon test kits to residents this January, in observance of Radon Action Month. Through this partnership, we aim to reach all corners of Kent County, helping residents protect themselves from the colorless, odorless gas responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths in the U.S. each year.
"We are thrilled to partner with the Kent County Health Department on this important initiative," said Randall Goble, KDL Director of Engagement. "As trusted community hubs, our libraries play a vital role in supporting the well-being of Kent County residents, and we're proud to help make this important health resource more accessible."
Radon forms naturally from the breakdown of uranium in the ground, but can sneak into buildings through foundational cracks, floor drains, and sump pits. Over time, the radioactive particles can accumulate in the air, increasing the risk of lung cancer—making radon the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. behind smoking.
Fortunately, testing for radon is simple and recommended this time of year as doors and windows are typically closed due to colder weather.
"Just like carbon monoxide, radon can’t be detected by the human senses,” said Sara Simmonds, KCHD Environmental Health Director. "Since there are no warning signs or symptoms from radon exposure, testing is the only way to know if a building and the people in it are at risk."
These free radon test kits are running out quickly and will only be available at KDL and KCHD clinic locations while supplies last. To find a KDL branch near you, please visit kdl.org or call 616-784-2007.
Addressing Social Determinants of Health in Kent County
Governor Whitmer proclaimed January 2025 as Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Month in Michigan – a time dedicated to understanding and addressing the social, economic, and environmental factors that impact our health.
From housing stability and food security to employment and community safety, SDOH profoundly shape our well-being. Everyone should have the same chance to be healthy, no matter where they live or how much money they make. By addressing these factors, we can work towards making health equity a reality for all.
In our November newsletter, we introduced you to the concept of SDOH hubs. Kent County took the first step towards developing a local SDOH hub with a convening on Wednesday, Nov. 20 between community members, stakeholders, and consultants from successful hubs implemented in other areas. Participants emphasized the need for strong coordination and collaboration across systems and stressed the importance of incorporating community feedback into the planning, decision-making, and governance processes.
If you're interested in learning more about SDOH Hubs, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is hosting a webinar Thursday, Jan. 30 at 2 p.m.
Pictured above is Erin Barrett, MPH, MCHES from the Northern Michigan Community Health Innovation Region presenting on SDOH hubs at a November convening.
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The Growing Loneliness and Isolation Epidemic
In 2023, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy, M.D., M.B.A, declared loneliness and social isolation an epidemic. While loneliness is a subjective feeling of not being connected to others, isolation is the objective reality of being physically alone or limited in social contact. Both can have severe consequences on mental and physical health, contributing to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, respiratory illness, and mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. In fact, the impact of loneliness and isolation has been shown to be as harmful to one’s health as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.
Beyond personal health, loneliness and isolation can also affect academic and work performance, as well as the strength of communities. Social connection fosters social capital, enhancing opportunities for employment, civic engagement, and resource advocacy. Stronger, more connected communities are vital for resilience and growth, particularly when connections span generational and socioeconomic lines.
To address this growing issue, both individual and systemic solutions are necessary. Here are a few tips to reduce feelings of loneliness:
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Stay connected with others through regular phone calls, texts, or short meetups.
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Express gratitude for the people in your life to foster deeper, more meaningful connections.
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Engage with nature by spending time outdoors, which can help improve both mental and physical well-being.
By prioritizing social connection, we can reduce the harmful effects of loneliness and isolation, improving health outcomes and strengthening communities.
Preventing and Detecting Cervical Cancer
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of prevention and early detection. In Michigan, about 390 new cases of invasive cervical cancer are diagnosed each year with an average of 120 deaths from the disease. 54% of these cases are among individuals aged 50 or older, while Non-Hispanic Black women are more likely to be diagnosed at a late stage.
Key risk factors for cervical cancer include human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, smoking, and a weakened immune system. Regular screenings like a Pap smear and HPV test can detect early signs and prevent the disease.
Screening Recommendations:
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Ages 21-24: Pap test every 3 years
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Ages 25-65: HPV test or Pap test every 3-5 years
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Ages 65+: No screening if prior tests were normal
Michigan’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program (BC3NP) provides free cervical cancer screenings for eligible individuals. See if you qualify by emailing a program representative at BC3NP@kentcountymi.gov or calling 616-362-7283.
Together, we can reduce cervical cancer’s impact!
Make a Difference in Your Community by Joining Our Team
If you’re passionate about improving public health and making a positive impact on your community in 2025, consider these rewarding career opportunities available at the Kent County Health Department:
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Supervising Sanitarian
Full-time position with a salary range of $90,741 - $103,201
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Public Health Epidemiologist - Overdose
Full-time position with a salary range of $80,871 - $91,970
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Outreach Worker for the WISEWOMAN Program
Hourly position with a rate of $21.93
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Public Health Epidemiologist
Full-time position with a salary range of $80,871 - $91,970
Take the next step in your professional journey while directly contributing to the health and well-being of Kent County.
All County Offices and Health Department Clinics Will Be Closed In Observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day
All county offices and clinics will be closed Monday, Jan. 20 in observance Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Regular operations will resume Tuesday, Jan. 21.
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