Muslim Groups Kick Off Ramadan With Anti-Smoking ...(R's campaignis devoted to raise public ...),Health

SEE: http://cair.com/muslimscare/

APPNA President Dr. Nadeem Kazi stated: "Smoking is perhaps one of the most important threats to individual and community health. It is no secret that more than four million people die in the world each year from smoking- related diseases, including lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary emphysema, coronary heart disease, and cancer of the bladder. Many of the principles of Islam call on people to look after their health and to avoid health hazards. We therefore urge everyone to take advantage of the holy month of Ramadan and quit smoking for good."

IMANA President Dr. Ashraf Sufi said: "Ramadan is the best time to quit smoking, not just during the day, but permanently. IMANA urges all Muslims who smoke to quit this habit and improve the quality of their lives. There is certainly no better time to do this than during the holy month of Ramadan."

Muslim smokers are being asked to take advantage of resources at http://www.smokefree.gov to help in kicking the habit. Smokers are also being asked to trust God's help in breaking the addition to nicotine.

In the Quran, Islam's revealed text, the Prophet Muhammad was told: ". . .when you make a decision to do something, then put your trust in God. For God loves those who put their trust in Him. If God is your helper, none can overcome you." (3:159-160)

CAIR, America's largest Islamic civil liberties group, has 33 offices and chapters nationwide and in Canada. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

CONTACT: CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-488-8787 or 202-744-7726, E-
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