COLUMBUS, Ohio – When The Ohio State University Buckeyes take the field against the University of Wisconsin Badgers this Saturday, September 24, 2022, it is with special significance as the team honors cancer survivorship and draws attention to the importance of timely cancer screening and cancer prevention as part of the 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).   The American Cancer Society estimates that 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes and urges people get timely cancer screenings for early detection.   Attendees are encouraged to complement their scarlet, gray and blackout 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.   Dr. David Cohn, interim chief executive officer of The James and a practicing gynecologic oncologist, notes that many people are achieving longer-term survival, and, for many cancers, prevention and timely screening are paramount for successful treatment and cure.   “We have reliable cancer screening tools available for colorectal, cervical, breast and prostate cancer, as well as lung cancer screening protocols for those who are at increased risk for this disease based on smoking history,” said Cohn.   He also notes that many cancers can be prevented 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 eliminates HPV-related cancers such as head and neck cancers and cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is administered to both girls and boys in two or three doses beginning around ages 11 or 12.   Fans in attendance this Saturday are also encouraged to visit the FanFest area by St. John arena to learn about cancer screenings and prevention at the OSUCCC – James booth. There, fans can create a poster with their thoughts on what a cancer-free world means to them. These posters will then be displayed throughout the game on the video scoreboard. Additionally, to honor cancer awareness, the Ohio Stadium rotunda will be lit in lavender and the Buckeyes for a Cancer-Free World graphic will be projected on St. John arena.   Cancer screening and diagnostic information   The OSUCCC - James has 14 convenient mammography locations around central Ohio including new clinics in Dublin and New Albany. For a full list of important cancer screenings and the age at which to start them, visit cancer.osu.edu or call 1-800-293-5066.   The James Cancer Diagnostic Center provides patients who may have cancer with direct, expedited access to diagnostic testing. Early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment; therefore, our diagnostic center is open for same-day or next-day appointments. Please call 1-800-293-5066 for an appointment.     MEDIA CONTACT: Amanda Harper OSUCCC – James Media Relations Amanda.Harper2@osumc.edu | 614-685-5420