Relay will be smoke-free

Next month's Brisbane Water Relay for Life to be held at Woy Woy oval will be a "smoke-free community event" to encourage Peninsula residents to give up smoking as part of a healthier lifestyle.

Event chairperson Mr Lincoln Poole said the event committee was looking forward to putting on a "cancer smart" event that could help prevent "at least a few cancers in the community".

Brisbane Water Relay For Life will be held from March 13 to 14 March at Woy Woy Oval and consist of teams including family, friends and workmates to take turns to walk or run around the local track.

All funds raised from the event will help fund the Cancer Council's research, support and education programs.

"Smoking kills about 15,000 Australians each year and leaves thousands more disabled," regional program coordinator at the Cancer Council's North Sydney and Central Coast regional office Ms Lauren Shore said.

"Quitting is one of the best things you will ever do for your body.

"Just one month after flicking the deadly habit, the immune system grows stronger, blood pressure returns to normal, and addictive nicotine is flushed out of the body's system.

"Living a cancer smart lifestyle may mean making some changes - and changing the habits of a lifetime isn't easy.

"Research shows that temptation from smelling smoke and seeing people lighting up are some of the biggest stumbling blocks to quitting successfully.

"Throw out all your cigarettes, lighters and ashtrays, ask friends and family to refrain from smoking around you, and speak to your pharmacist about nicotine replacement therapy that can improve your chances of success."

Press release, 11 Feb 2010 Lesley Chart, Cancer Council