Statement from CDC Director on Christine Brader’s Passing

atlanta, GA – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is mourning the loss of Christine Brader, a long-time participant in the agency’s Tips From Former Smokers campaign, who passed away on February 26, 2024, at the age of 62. Brader, a resident of Wheat Ridge, Colorado, dedicated 13 years to sharing her harrowing experience with oral cancer as a direct result of smoking.

Diagnosed with oral cancer three times – in 2008, 2012, and 2017 – Brader underwent 35 radiation treatments, chemotherapy, and a partial jaw removal. Despite these meaningful health battles, she courageously featured in multiple iterations of the tips From Former Smokers campaign, beginning with the 2012 campaign, becoming a powerful voice in tobacco cessation efforts. Her story has been credited with motivating over 1.6 million Americans to attempt to quit smoking since the campaign’s inception in 2012.

The CDC highlights that Brader’s willingness to share her deeply personal story served as a critical warning to others about the devastating consequences of tobacco use. Her advocacy extended beyond the campaign, inspiring countless individuals to prioritize their health and seek help to break free from nicotine addiction. The Tips From Former Smokers campaign, funded by the CDC’s Office on Smoking and Health, has consistently demonstrated a return on investment, saving an estimated $5.6 billion in healthcare costs.

“Christine’s bravery and unwavering commitment to preventing others from suffering as she did will not be forgotten,” said a CDC spokesperson. “Her legacy will continue to inspire our work to reduce the burden of tobacco-related disease.”

Christine Brader is survived by her daughter,Melissa,and two grandchildren.

Christine’s Tips Videos: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/stories/christine.html