Statement from Laura Chanchien Parajón, MD, MPH, Director (Acting), CDC's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, on the passing of Christine Brader, Tips From Former Smokers® participant

Summary: Christine Brader, a devoted mother and grandmother, has passed away at age 62. For 13 years, she was a brave face for the CDC's "Tips From Former Smokers" campaign. Because of smoking, Christine fought oral cancer three separate times. She endured 35 radiation treatments, chemotherapy, and the removal of half of her jaw. Despite these painful health battles, she bravely shared her story with the world to help save lives and protect others from the dangers of smoking.

For more details, see rssapp-cdc-gov-media at cdc.gov/media/releases/2025/2025-statement-from-laura-chanchien-parajon-md-mph-director-acting-cdcs-national-center-for.html (opens in new tab)