GRU helps smokers break the habit

Media advisory for Thursday, Nov. 19

Event:

Georgia Regents University will host its annual Great American Smokeout in an effort to help smokers quit by calling attention to the death, illness and disability caused by smoking and secondhand smoke. Events include a community forum, free oral screenings and Commit to Quit stations.

Background:

Every year, an estimated 160,000 men and women die from lung and bronchus cancers, according to a recent report from the National Cancer Institute. In Georgia alone, about 11,000 people die annually from smoking-related illnesses.

When:

• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 19

Commit to Quit stations at Children’s Hospital of Georgia lobby, College of Dental Medicine lobby, the Medical Office Building lobby, and the Jaguar Students Activities Center.

• 5:30- 6:30 p.m.

Community forum at Augusta Richmond County Public Library, 823 Telfair Street Augusta.

• 6:30- 7:30 p.m.

Oral health screening at Augusta Richmond County Public Library.

Opportunities:

Video, photo and interview opportunities during activities are available. To cover this event, contact Danielle Harris at 706-564-9282 or deharris1@gru.edu.