The Center for Environmental Oncology to Launch New "Highmark Healthy Places, Healthy People" Web Site

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PITTSBURGH, Jan. 20– Pollution is a major health issue that not only affects the environment, but it also is linked to many diseases and health issues. According to the National Cancer Institute, the majority of cancers are caused by environmental factors.

To better educate the public about how the environment impacts health, the Center for Environmental Oncology (CEO) at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute is launching a new web site and will host a party to celebrate the launch from 6 to 9 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 8.

The event, free and open to the public, will take place at the Society for Contemporary Craft located at 2100 Smallman St. in Pittsburgh's Strip District. The event will include an art exhibit and demonstration on ways to create artwork from recycled goods as well as food, refreshments and live music. Experts also will be on hand to talk with attendees about improving their health and the environment.

The new Web site is part of the CEO's "Highmark Healthy Places, Healthy People" program, which was created to educate the public about avoiding dangerous carcinogens and pollutants in their daily lives.

A reservation is required for the event and can be made by contacting Sara Werner at (412) 623-3375 or wernersj@umpc.edu

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UPMC News Bureau