COLUMBUS, Ohio – When The Ohio State University Buckeyes host the Ohio University Bobcats Saturday, September 13, not only will it be a battle of Ohio colleges – it will hold special significance as the football team honors the awareness of all cancers. It’s part of the fifth annual Buckeyes for a Cancer-Free World game presented by The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James). Spectators are encouraged to look to the sky during halftime – whether cheering from inside the stadium or locations nearby – to enjoy a special drone show highlighting the importance of timely cancer screening and advancements in cancer research, showing Brutus Buckeye “tackling” cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that half of all men and one-third of all women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes and urges people to get timely cancer screenings for early detection. Attendees are encouraged to complement their appropriate helmet stripe attire with lavender accessories – since lavender is the color that represents all cancers – in honor of the more than 18 million cancer survivors living in the United States today. W. Kimryn Rathmell, MD, PhD, chief executive officer of the OSUCCC – James notes that many people are achieving longer-term survival, because of advances in cancer science and care, and that for many cancers, prevention and timely screening are paramount for successful treatment and cure. It is also important for people to understand that cancer rates are rising in younger adults, particularly colorectal and head and neck cancers. “Cancer does not discriminate. We are seeing a distressing rise- in cancer in people under age 50. But there are steps people can take right now to reduce their risk. It’s really important to listen to your body and talk to a physician about your concerns and your family’s history of cancer,” said Rathmell. “We also have reliable cancer screening tools available for colorectal, cervical, breast and prostate cancer, as well as lung cancer screening protocols for people at higher risk based on smoking history. The earlier we detect cancer or something likely to become cancer, the better chance we have to keep it from becoming lethal.” Rathmell noted that the risk for cancer is also dramatically reduced through behavioral changes such as not using tobacco, wearing sunscreen, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly. There is also a vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV) that virtually eliminates the risk of HPV-related cancers such as head and neck cancers and cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is recommended to be administered to both girls and boys between the ages of 9 and 14, with catch up opportunities available up to age 45. Fans in attendance on Saturday are encouraged to visit the FanFest area by St. John Arena to learn about cancer screenings and prevention at the OSUCCC – James booth. Additionally, to honor cancer awareness, the Ohio Stadium rotunda will be lit in lavender. -30- MEDIA CONTACT: Amanda Harper amanda.harper2@osumc.edu | 614-685-5420