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NFL Crucial Catch kicks off October

ACS and NFL are tackling cancer together!

Football season is well underway, but the NFL Crucial Catch campaign is helping to kick off October with a slew of activities to amplify the ACS mission and increase cancer screening. Now in its 16th season, Crucial Catch is a year-round initiative in partnership with ACS to educate fans on the importance of taking their health into their own hands. 

Every October the campaign features players (ambassadors), coaches, fans, and referees in apparel supporting multiple types of cancer, as well as additional on-field and in-stadium branding to help raise awareness for the campaign. This initiative is a touchdown for early detection and risk reduction, using our nation's love of football to raise awareness and save lives. 

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Here's what makes Crucial Catch a game-changer:  

  • Raising awareness: Since 2009, the campaign has raised more than $30 million to fund our mission. 
  • Early detection saves lives: Crucial Catch highlights the importance of early detection for multiple types of cancer, including breast cancer. 
  • Empowering communities: Funds raised support the ACS Community Health Advocates implementing Nationwide Grants for Empowerment and Equity (CHANGE) program, providing vital resources to under resourced communities. A map of all NFL funded CHANGE Grants, Links to Care Grants, and IMPACT ECHO initiative sites can be found here
  • Driving action: The Defender, presented by Sleep Number in partnership with the NFL, is an interactive tool that now offers a refreshed look, a brand-new quiz, and upgraded resources to help assess cancer risk and find local screening options. You can amplify this unique resource by sharing The Defender quiz on social media. Please use #CrucialCatch #NFL #ACS #poweredbypartnership when sharing. 
  • Support the cause with Crucial Catch gear: Did you know that when you support your favorite team, you support the cause at the same time? The NFL donates 100% of its proceeds from Crucial Catch merchandise to the American Cancer Society to provide cancer screenings and resources to under resourced communities. Get your gear and shop now! 

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