Novartis and the NFL Get Proactive About Health

Sports have a universal appeal that transcends boundaries. Each weekend, the National Football League (NFL) ignites millions of passionate fans from across the country, demonstrating the deep connection and power of community. At Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, we share that same dedication in how we reimagine medicine that reached nearly 300 million patients worldwide in 2024 alone.

Now, through a first-of-its-kind health partnership, Novartis and the NFL are harnessing the spirit of game day to advance better health decisions and early detection. Together, we aim to empower football fans everywhere to make proactive decisions about their health, understand screening guidelines, and build a playbook for a healthier future.

Our Super Bowl LX Strategy? Teaming Up to Tackle Prostate Cancer 

For Super Bowl LX, Novartis has assembled a roster of NFL greats - including Super Bowl-winning coach and prostate cancer survivor Bruce Arians, current tight ends Colby Parkinson and Greg Kittle, and retired NFL tight ends Rob Gronkowski, Tony Gonzalez, Greg Olsen, Vernon Davis, and Delanie Walker - to tackle one of the biggest challenges in men's health: prostate cancer. "Relax, it's a Blood Test" breaks down stigma and emphasizes that early detection can start with a simple PSA blood test.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States and a leading cause of cancer deaths.¹ Yet, many skip screenings because of misconceptions or uncertainty.² Early detection changes the game. If caught early, prostate cancer has a greater than 99% relative 5-year survival rate. ³

These NFL legends are lending their voices to spark honest conversations about men's health and empower men to take action in screening for prostate cancer. Together, we are making PSA blood tests the smartest play on the field. 

Learn more at RelaxltsABloodTest.com

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Touchdown for Early Detection: Novartis Partners with 6 NFL Teams 

 

 

The first season of partnership with the National Football League (NFL) has already been an incredible opportunity to reach fans and encourage prioritizing proactive health behaviors. Now, Novartis is expanding upon the NFL partnership to further engage fans on a local level as the official pharmaceutical partner of six NFL teams – the New York Giants, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Baltimore Ravens. 

These team partnerships are a critical piece of our collaboration with the NFL. By working directly with local fan bases, we're bringing important messages about screening and early detection directly into communities across the country. As a partner of these teams, Novartis will also work directly with current players, coaches, and legends for authentic storytelling and advocacy throughout the season, while also engaging local patient advocacy groups to host screening and health fair events—helping fans take proactive steps toward their health and move from awareness to action.

My Cause My Cleats: A Commitment to Proactive Health On & Off the Field

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The most important play made this season won't be on the field. Novartis is proud to partner with the NFL, select teams, athletes and coaches during My Cause My Cleats. Through this initiative, Novartis will spotlight important prostate cancer, breast cancer, and cardiovascular causes through players' custom-designed cleats.

My Cause My Cleats amplifies the diverse, powerful voices of NFL players and coaches as they share the impact that cancer and other diseases can have on lives. Their relatable stories inspire fans to have critical conversations about their health. With the help of our NFL partner teams and athletes, Novartis is highlighting the importance of taking a proactive approach to health decisions, empowering fans and players alike to talk to their doctor about routine screenings and advocate for themselves and loved ones.

A Proactive Playbook

While millions cheer on their favorite teams on the field, too many sideline their own well-being - skipping routine screenings or delaying crucial conversations with health care professionals about risks for certain conditions.