The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is mourning the loss of Christine Brader, a longtime advocate for smoking cessation and a participant in the agency’s Tips From Former Smokers campaign. Brader, 62, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of courage and a powerful message about the dangers of tobacco use.
Brader’s story, shared through the CDC’s campaign for 13 years, was a stark warning about the devastating consequences of smoking. Diagnosed three times with oral cancer linked to tobacco, she underwent 35 radiation treatments, chemotherapy, and the removal of half her jaw. Despite these grueling health battles, she bravely stepped forward to share her experience, hoping to prevent others from suffering a similar fate. Her willingness to publicly recount her ordeal proved impactful, helping to save lives by motivating smokers to quit.
A Voice for Prevention
Laura Chanchien Parajón, MD, MPH, Acting Director of the CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, released a statement acknowledging Brader’s profound contribution to public health. “It is with deep sadness that we share the loss of Christine Brader, a devoted mother, grandmother, friend, and champion of anti-smoking efforts,” Parajón said. “For 13 years, Christine served proudly as a participant in CDC’s Tips From Former Smokers campaign.”
The Tips From Former Smokers campaign, launched in 2012, features real people who have suffered the health consequences of smoking. The campaign aims to counter the glamorization of smoking often seen in advertising and to provide relatable, often harrowing, accounts of the realities of tobacco addiction. The CDC states the campaign has been responsible for over 1 million quit attempts since its inception. Learn more about the Tips campaign here.
The Personal Toll of Tobacco
Brader’s case highlights the often-overlooked link between smoking and oral cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, smoking is a major risk factor for cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, and esophagus. More information on oral cancer risk factors can be found on the American Cancer Society website. Her story served as a visceral reminder that the dangers of smoking extend far beyond lung cancer.
“Christine was diagnosed three separate times with oral cancer due to smoking, ultimately requiring 35 radiation treatments, chemotherapy, and the removal of half her jaw,” Parajón noted. “Despite her health challenges, she bravely came forward to share her story as part of the Tips From Former Smokers campaign. Christine’s story helped save lives. She will be remembered for her courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to protecting others from the health issues she experienced.”
Continuing the Fight Against Tobacco
The CDC continues to emphasize the importance of quitting smoking and preventing youth from starting. The agency offers a range of resources, including the Tips campaign, Smokefree.gov, and partnerships with state and local health departments. These efforts are aimed at reducing the prevalence of smoking, which remains a leading cause of preventable death in the United States.
The CDC extends its deepest condolences to Brader’s family and friends during this difficult time. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire efforts to combat tobacco use and protect public health.
The CDC will continue to share Christine Brader’s story through its website, ensuring her message reaches a wider audience. Videos featuring Brader’s story are available on the CDC website.
The CDC plans to release updated data on the impact of the Tips From Former Smokers campaign later this year. For more information on tobacco prevention and cessation resources, please visit the CDC’s website.
If you or someone you know is struggling with tobacco addiction, resources are available. You can find support and information at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit Smokefree.gov.
