NFL Alumni Partners with CDC for GEAR UP Against Cancer Campaign

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The National Football League Alumni Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced the launch of a new campaign in Georgia and Tennessee focused providing education about colorectal cancer and sharing the importance of regular screenings.¹

From the NFL Alumni Association, the following former players will be involved in the GEAR UP Against Cancer campaign, Warrick Dunn, Brian Jordan, Terance Mathis, Warren Moon, Jevon Kearse, Kevin Dyson, and Al Smith.

In a press release, Moon explained, “As former athletes, we know the importance of staying proactive about our health. By teaming up with the CDC for the GEAR UP Against Cancer campaign, we're raising awareness about colorectal cancer screenings and helping to save lives. It's crucial for everyone, especially those at higher risk—to take preventive steps and get screened."

Dunn added, “Connecting with the community about cancer prevention brings awareness, support, and helps us grow stronger communities, which is something I care about. When we share information, it can lead to understanding and hope and that empowers us to do what is needed to protect ourselves."

NFL Alumni CEO Brad Edwards also said, “Cancer doesn't discriminate, and many of us know someone who's been affected. We're committed to helping spread the word that prevention and early detection through screening can make a life-saving difference. The GEAR UP Against Cancer campaign is about making sure everyone has the knowledge and resources they need to protect their health."

In the same press release, the CDC’s Director of its division of cancer prevention and control Lisa Richardson, MD, MPH, said, “Through this campaign, we hope to not only raise awareness of the importance of colorectal cancer prevention and screening, but to acknowledge and support the unique needs of those who have experienced cancer.”

This is the latest public health-related campaign from the NFL Alumni Association. In December 2022, the organization partnered with the Tennesee Department of Health to promote the COVID-19 vaccine.²

In a press release issued at the time, Moon (who also participated in this campaign) said, “On the field, I always wore a helmet and pads to make sure I was protected; life is no different.That is why I chose to get vaccinated against COVID-19. I would encourage anyone with questions about getting vaccinated or boosted to speak to their health care providers so they can make an informed decision to protect themselves and their families."

Al Smith also said, “We have come a long way since the height of the pandemic, but unfortunately, much like other viruses, COVID-19 is likely here to stay. Through the GEAR UP! campaign, the NFL Alumni hopes to educate underserved communities in Nashville and surrounding areas on the importance of the vaccine and encourage anyone with concerns to make an informed decision about getting vaccinated."

Jevon Kearse added, “We all want to stay in the game, but protection from COVID-19 is what keeps us in the game. It allows us to live our normal lives, see the people we love, visit the places we love, and do the work we love with fewer disruptions. Talk to your health care provider and make an informed decision."

Sources

1. Former NFL Stars Partner with the CDC to Launch Gear Up Against Cancer Campaign. NFL Alumni Association. December 11, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/former-nfl-stars-partner-with-the-cdc-to-launch-gear-up-against-cancer-campaign-302329114.html
2. Former NFL Stars and Titans Partner with Tennessee Department of Health to Launch Gear Up! Campaign. NFL Alumni Association. December 12, 2022. Accessed December 12, 2024. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/former-nfl-stars-and-titans-partner-with-tennessee-department-of-health-to-launch-gear-up-campaign-301702096.html