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NFL Legends and Novartis: Breaking Down Prostate Cancer Myths

As the Super Bowl LX approaches on February 8, 2026, Novartis, a global leader in innovative medicines, has launched an urgent initiative aimed at raising awareness about prostate cancer detection. With one in eight men in the U.S. likely to face this disease, the partnership with notable NFL figures aims to change the narrative surrounding prostate cancer screenings, specifically through the campaign slogan, "Relax, it's a blood test."

The Reality of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers among men, being the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths—highlighting the critical need for early detection to improve survival rates. Recent studies indicate that when diagnosed early, the relative five-year survival rate exceeds 99%. However, misconceptions surrounding the screening process hinder many from seeking help; approximately 60% of men mistakenly believe that screening entails uncomfortable digital rectal exams (DREs).

A Collaborative Effort

This campaign asserts that the first step to identifying prostate cancer is the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test—a non-invasive procedure. Novartis has collaborated with several eminent patient advocacy organizations, including the American Cancer Society, Prostate Cancer Foundation, and ZERO Prostate Cancer, among others, to amplify awareness and address the stigma that often surrounds men's health.

Victor Bultó, President of Novartis U.S., emphasized the urgency and importance of this initiative, noting the significant barriers to engaging men in discussions about their health. “We want to demystify the screening process and encourage men nationwide to take advantage of available resources and information.”

Impactful Ambassadors

To champion this cause, Novartis has enlisted a team of NFL icons, including Super Bowl-winning coach Bruce Arians, who personally understands the importance of early detection following his own diagnosis in 2007. Joining him are NFL stars such as Rob Gronkowski, George Kittle, and other prominent figures, all committed to normalizing conversations about prostate health.

As Arians states, “It’s critical to speak with your doctor and learn more about the risks involved. Avoiding the issue due to assumptions only puts your health at greater risk.” Current professional guidelines recommend that most men begin to discuss prostate cancer screenings with their doctors starting at age 45, and sooner for those with higher risk factors. However, it is estimated that about 40.3 million eligible men in the U.S. have never undergone a PSA blood test.

Addressing Barriers

Many barriers—ranging from lack of access to healthcare to cultural stigmas—prevent men from seeking necessary screenings. This concern is particularly urgent for Black men, who are at a significantly higher risk for developing prostate cancer. The initiative led by Novartis and the NFL aims to educate and encourage discussions surrounding prostate health, making early detection straightforward and approachable.

Key Resources and Events

The campaign includes setting up a centralized online hub that offers resources tailored to educate men and their families about prostate health and screening processes. Furthermore, various risk assessment tools and easy-to-follow guides on when and how to be tested will be promoted.

As part of the outreach, the NFL teams will hold onsite screening events, and fans engaging in Super Bowl Experience activations will receive educational resources, breaking down the typical misconceptions associated with prostate screenings.

Shane Jacobson, CEO of the American Cancer Society, has spotlighted the importance of expanding access to screenings and overcoming persistent barriers that hinder life-saving care. By collaborating with Novartis, the NFL can help men gain a clearer understanding of prostate cancer and ultimately change the narrative surrounding a diagnosis.

Conclusion

The upcoming Super Bowl LX will serve not only as a grand sporting event but also as a pivotal moment for health awareness. With the tagline "Relax, it's a blood test," this powerful campaign spearheaded by Novartis and NFL stars aims to reinforce that early detection of prostate cancer is not just possible, but essential. To learn more about prostate cancer screenings and whether a PSA blood test is right for you, visit RelaxItsABloodTest.com.