Former President Joe Biden recently announced that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer, once again reminding the nation about the serious of the disease. It’s one of the leading causes of death in men, which is why it’s important to get regular screenings.
Why is early screening important to reduce the risk of death from prostate cancer?
ZERO Prostate Cancer is a prostate cancer organization for advocacy and support. The group cited President Biden’s diagnosis as part of its inspiration to work with NASCAR over Memorial Day weekend. In partnership with AstraZeneca, the organization teamed up with drivers Josh Bilicki and JJ Yeley to promote awareness of the disease.
Key Takeaways
- Prostate Cancer is one of the leading causes of death for men in the United States.
- Early detection can help reduce the deadliness of the disease.
- ZERO Prostate Cancer partnered with AstraZeneca and NASCAR to promote early screening during races held over Memorial Day Weekend.
Both drivers raced with the organization’s message on their cars over the weekend at the Coca-Cola 600 race and the BetMGM 300 race.
In a press release, ZERO Prostate Cancer’s president and CEO Courtney Bugler said, “Prostate cancer has become too big to ignore. There are more than 3 million men living with prostate cancer. This year alone, over 300,000 men will be diagnosed, and more than 35,000 will die from the disease. We must break down the barriers to early detection, especially for Veterans and others who face higher risks. This Memorial Day, we race not just to remember—but to save lives.”
Bugler continued, “ZERO is equally proud to stand with AstraZeneca, Josh, JJ, the entire Veteran community, and racing fans across the world this Memorial Day to remind every man to talk to their doctor, know their risk, and get screened. A Simple PSA Blood test can mean the difference between life and death because prostate cancer doesn’t discriminate—but together, we can beat it.”
In the same press release, AstraZeneca’s vice-president of its US GYN/GU cancer franchise Daniele Paone added, “Memorial Day weekend is a powerful moment to elevate the conversation around Veterans’ health. Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among U.S. Veterans, which is why early detection and access to quality care is critical. We’re proud to join ZERO Prostate Cancer and NASCAR to raise awareness among veterans and all men at risk. It’s part of our bold ambition to one day eliminate cancer as a cause of death.”
The campaign is part of larger initiative launched by ZERO earlier this year. The group has pledged to save 100,000 live by the year 2035 by promoting education, outreach, and improved access to care for various communities.
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The key message from Memorial Day weekend events was that early detection saves lives. This message was reiterated by driver Bilicki, who explained, “This weekend isn’t just about racing—it’s about saving lives. President Biden’s diagnosis has put prostate cancer in the spotlight, and we’re here to keep it there. If one more man gets tested because of this, we’ve already made a difference.”
Yeley added, “As a 48-year-old man and part of a sport that’s deeply tied to the Veteran community, this message hits home. Veterans are more likely to face this disease, and early detection is key. If we can help even one person take that step, every lap will be worth it.”
Source
- Fighting for Those Who’ve Fought for Us: ZERO Prostate Cancer and AstraZeneca Drive Urgent Call to Save More Veterans During NASCAR’s Patriotic Weekend. ZERO Prostate Cancer. May 22, 2025. Accessed May 27, 2025. https://zerocancer.org/stay-informed/press-releases/fighting-those-whove-fought-us-zero-prostate-cancer-and-astrazeneca