Stand Up To Cancer® (SU2C) announced today the launch of a new public service campaign in collaboration with digital health company Rally Health, Inc. to encourage individuals to take steps to reduce their cancer risk. Titled “Make the Healthy Call,” the campaign features celebrated sportscasters in a series of public service announcements (PSAs) encouraging people to make healthy choices to reduce their risk of developing cancer.
The “Make the Healthy Call” campaign kicks off on Sept. 8 with broadcast, print and digital PSAs featuring CBS’ James Brown and Bill Cowher, as well as digital and print PSAs featuring TNT’s Charles Barkley and Ernie Johnson, with additional PSAs to follow in 2021. In addition to highlighting everyday ways to reduce cancer risk, the campaign drives the public to TakeAHealthyStand.org to take a pledge to get screened for cancer. When taking the online pledge, users are provided with a personalized list of screenings, such as cervical or colon cancer screening, as well as preventive care options and tips for healthy living.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored how critical it is for all of us to maintain a healthy lifestyle,” said James Brown, award-winning CBS Sports broadcaster. “Making healthy choices is key to overall well-being. That is why I’m so passionate, now more than ever, to join Stand Up To Cancer and Rally to highlight the importance of healthy behaviors and preventive cancer screening.”
“The pandemic’s impact on the sports community has been challenging to say the least,” said Stand Up To Cancer co-founder Lisa Paulsen. “But the strength, passion and resiliency of this community is second to none. While we’ve certainly missed game days, it’s wonderful to have our incredible Stand Up To Cancer Ambassadors lend their voice during this difficult time to empower fans to take control of their personal health.”
Cancer screenings can help identify a cancer diagnosis early, before symptoms appear, which can save lives. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends regular screenings for certain types of cancers, including cervical, breast and colon cancers. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many cancer screenings being put on hold to conserve essential medical resources and to lower the risk of spreading the virus. For example, there has been a 94% drop in screening rates for cervical, breast and colon cancers compared to the same timeframe in previous years. As stay-at-home orders start to relax in many parts of the country, medical centers have begun providing routine cancer screenings again and patients are encouraged to speak with their physician to see if cancer screening is right for them at this time.
“Early screening and detection can be a vital tool in saving lives by catching cancer before it progresses and we are immensely grateful for our ongoing collaboration with Rally Health,” said Sung Poblete, PhD, RN, CEO, Stand Up To Cancer. “Since screenings were delayed in the early days of the pandemic, it’s now more important than ever for people to prioritize having a conversation about preventive cancer screenings with their physician.”
“Cancer isn’t taking a break during the COVID-19 pandemic, and that’s why Rally’s collaboration with SU2C and its dedicated ambassadors is critical to sharing our message that taking steps to live a healthier lifestyle can lower the risk of developing cancer,” said Brenda Yang, COO, Rally Health, which is part of the Optum business of UnitedHealth Group. “As Americans focus on keeping themselves and their loved ones safe from COVID, it’s important also to remember to speak with your doctor about your regular health care maintenance, including getting screened for cancer.”
Stand Up To Cancer and Rally’s “Make the Healthy Call” campaign was developed and produced prior to the COVID-19 pandemic by Wondros Global, a creative solutions agency with a mission to inspire passion, incite action, and propel change. The TNT and CBS spots were directed by seasoned comedy director Lee Farber, who joined Wondros Collective, Wondros’ commercial/branded content division, earlier this year.
