At the Jefferson County Department of Health we are concerned about threats to the health of young people in our community. The decisions they make today can affect their health for a lifetime. Tobacco use continues to be a leading cause of preventable illness, disability and premature death. This includes regular cigarettes, but also other forms of tobacco, including vaping products or e-cigarettes that contain nicotine and other harmful ingredients.

Over the last several years we have seen a decrease in the number of teenagers who smoke regular cigarettes. Unfortunately, we have recently seen a dramatic increase in the number of teenagers who use e-cigarettes or vaping products. Many vaping liquids contain chemicals that can damage the lungs or cause cancer. Most contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Nicotine use before the age of 25 can damage parts of the brain linked to concentration, learning, and mood. Teens who use electronic cigarettes are four times more likely to smoke regular cigarettes. They may also be more likely to become addicted to cocaine and other harmful drugs. Watch Dr. Wilson's video on e-cigarettes and vaping here.

Please welcome our new Board of Health member, Kenny Murray, MD, MPH.

Dr. Murray is a hospitalist at St. Vincent’s East where he serves as Medical Director for TeamHealth Hospital Medicine and Medical Director for the Palliative Care program. He also serves as clinical faculty for the Brookwood Baptist Health System Internal Medicine Residency Program. He attended Birmingham-Southern College, completed his medical degree at UAB School of Medicine, and received his Master of Public Health from the UAB School of Public Health. His clinical interests include sepsis, quality/process improvement, and palliative care. Dr. Murray says he is "super excited" to join our Board.

Dr. Max Michael has rolled off of the Board of Health, and Dr. Yocunda Clayton will be serving as the Board Chair for 2019.

You can view the bios and pictures of all our Board of Health members, along with the Board meeting agendas and minutes, on our website: