Arsenal Women Promote Cervical Cancer Awareness During North London Derby Match
Arsenal Women's stars are set to kick off a groundbreaking cervical cancer awareness campaign during this weekend's North London Derby. Powered by MSD UK and The Eve Appeal, the "Defend Your Tomorrow" initiative aims to tackle the disease, which could potentially be eradicated by 2040, according to the NHS's ambition.
The campaign targets Arsenal Women's diverse fanbase - the most well-supported in the world this season - to bridge disparities in NHS vaccination program and screening participation, potentially reducing preventable cases and deaths. The North London Derby at the Emirates Stadium is expected to draw an enormous crowd, making it the largest of the Women's Super League season so far.
England captain Leah Williamson emphasizes the importance of this week, both for her team and the community, stating, "We want to create an incredible atmosphere and protect what's special to us – our health, our friends, our families, and our extended north London community – against cervical cancer."
Crucial matchday activities during the North London derby will include informative messages and activities, encouraging supporters to visit their GPs or the "Defend Your Tomorrow" website for more info. The team will also host educational sessions around cervical cancer prevention in North London over the next year, focusing on communities with the greatest health disparities.
Arsenal Women's players will spearhead the awareness drive, discussing preventive measures like the NHS's cervical screening and vaccination programs. The presence of Beth Mead, who lost her mother to ovarian cancer in 2023, carries a poignant message of resilience and inspiration.
MSD UK & Ireland's Managing Director, Ben Lucas, expresses his enthusiasm for the campaign, stating, "By channeling the passion of women's football and Arsenal Women's reach, we can spark meaningful conversations with diverse communities about this crucial health challenge." The Eve Appeal's CEO, Athena Lamnisos, also speaks of their shared goal of reaching those often left out of the health discussion and helping everyone access the information needed for cervical cancer prevention.
Leah Williamson closes by urging supporters to consult their GPs or visit the "Defend Your Tomorrow" website for guidance related to cervical cancer. By collaborating and utilizing the collective power of football, Arsenal Women, MSD UK, and The Eve Appeal strive to create a society where both cervical and ovarian cancer cases are significantly reduced, giving every eligible individual the means to protect their future.
Kyra Cooney-Cross, a key player for Arsenal Women, will contribute to the awareness campaign by discussing the importance of cervical screening and vaccination programs. During the North London Derby against Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium, fans can expect informative messages and activities to encourage them to visit their GPs or the "Defend Your Tomorrow" website. Katie McCabe, another Arsenal Women star, will also be involved in the awareness drive, using her platform to promote cervical cancer prevention. Arsenals' captains, Leah Williamson and Manu Zinsberger, are highly committed to the campaign, advocating for the health of their fans and the broader North London community. Beth Mead, whose mother passed away from ovarian cancer in 2023, will lend her voice to the cause, encouraging supporters to take preventive measures against cervical and ovarian cancers.
