Aflac Honors Outstanding Individuals as Check for Cancer Champions in 2026

Aflac's Check for Cancer Champions in 2026

Aflac Incorporated, a top provider of supplemental health insurance in the U.S., has recently expanded its Check for Cancer initiative by launching the 2026 Check for Cancer Champions program. This initiative coincides with Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month, showcasing the dedication of individuals committed to raising awareness about the critical importance of cancer screenings.

In a landscape where one in three people are projected to develop cancer during their lifetime, the significance of early detection cannot be understated. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), early detection can improve survival rates for many cancers to over 90%. However, the insights gathered from the 2025 Aflac Wellness Matters Survey suggest a concerning trend, revealing that more than 90% of individuals have postponed routine healthcare checkups or cancer screenings. Given these alarming statistics, Aflac's initiative to recognize role models in cancer advocacy has never been more vital.

The inaugural cohort of Check for Cancer Champions comprises six remarkable leaders who have united their voices in advocating for early detection strategies and preventive care:

1. Ernie Johnson Jr.: Renowned sports broadcaster and two-time cancer survivor. Johnson's personal experience with cancer has fueled his passion for promoting regular health screenings, especially for prostate cancer. His advocacy work includes his role as a global ambassador for ZERO Prostate Cancer and support for childhood cancer-related initiatives.

2. Adamari López: A prominent Univision host and breast cancer survivor, López has leveraged her platform to champion awareness among women, particularly within the Hispanic community. Diagnosed at 33, she emphasizes the necessity of self-examinations and regular screenings, ultimately naming Susan G. Komen Puerto Rico as the charity benefitting from Aflac's donation in her honor.

3. David Pollack: Former NFL player and college football analyst, Pollack has become a vocal advocate after his wife was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2025. Through his advocacy, he highlights the importance of early screenings and has designated the V Foundation to receive a donation from Aflac.

4. Dr. Heather Bittner Fagan: A practicing physician committed to underserved communities, Dr. Fagan has contributed extensively to research on cancer prevention. Recognized for her leadership, she has chosen Friends of the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center Research Institute in Delaware as her charity.

5. Dr. Ryan Schoenfeld: As the CEO of The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research, Dr. Schoenfeld is at the forefront of initiatives aimed at improving cancer screening tools. His leadership has accelerated progress in the development of new detection methods and he has selected the foundation’s Early Detection Award program to utilize Aflac's $5,000 donation.

6. Brian Ryll: President of the Professional Fire Fighters of New Hampshire, Ryll is a strong advocate for early detection screenings for firefighters. Thanks to his efforts, New Hampshire passed Senate Bill 352, enabling access to comprehensive screenings for nearly 4,000 firefighters. The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is the chosen charity for Aflac's contribution in his name.

Each champion will receive a custom Check for Cancer jacket as a symbol of their commitment to raising awareness for cancer screenings. As part of their recognition, Aflac will contribute a $5,000 donation to a cancer-related nonprofit organization selected by each honoree.

Furthermore, Aflac encourages the public to join the initiative on social media. By using the hashtag #CheckForCancer and tagging @Aflac, Aflac will donate $5 for every post made, up to $1 million, towards supporting the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

The Check for Cancer Champions program is not just an acknowledgment of these individuals. It serves as a rallying call to action, urging communities across the nation to prioritize cancer screenings and preventive health care. Aflac is determined to enhance cancer awareness and significantly increase screening rates, thereby fostering a movement that could save countless lives. To learn more about the Check for Cancer initiative, please visit Aflac.com/CheckForCancer.