AstraZeneca and Joshua Jackson partner to encourage fans to Get Body Checked Against Cancer
MWN-AI** Summary
AstraZeneca has partnered with actor Joshua Jackson and the Philadelphia Flyers' mascot, Gritty, to launch the "Get Body Checked Against Cancer" initiative. This national public health campaign aims to encourage people to engage in proactive health conversations with their doctors regarding cancer risk and necessary screenings.
Jackson, who resonates with a generation that grew up watching him, emphasizes the importance of these discussions as he enters a life stage where cancer awareness becomes critical. In a unique twist, he and Gritty draw a parallel between a well-timed body check on the ice and the necessity of regular health check-ups, showcasing that both require timely action that can ultimately save lives. Mohit Manrao, Senior Vice President at AstraZeneca, stresses that “beating cancer takes a team,” and the campaign's goal is to motivate fans to understand their health and get screened, particularly given that about 65% of Americans are behind on recommended cancer screenings.
The ongoing rise in cancer rates among individuals under 50 underscores the urgency of initiating these conversations. Jackson personally connects with the cause, noting that many close to him have faced cancer diagnoses, making it essential for him—and fans—to understand their own risks.
Additionally, AstraZeneca's ongoing commitment to cancer research is highlighted by their partnership with "Hockey Fights Cancer," from which they have contributed $1.1 million through the V Foundation. For more information on cancer screenings and to find a provider, individuals can visit Getbodychecked.com. The collaboration aims not only to educate but also to inspire a dialogue that could lead to earlier detection and improved health outcomes across communities.
MWN-AI** Analysis
AstraZeneca, in partnership with actor Joshua Jackson and the Philadelphia Flyers’ mascot Gritty, is making significant strides in promoting cancer awareness through their “Get Body Checked Against Cancer” campaign. This initiative is particularly timely, considering that approximately 65% of Americans are behind on recommended cancer screenings, and cancer rates are rising among younger populations.
From a market perspective, AstraZeneca (NYSE: AZN) has positioned itself as a leader in oncology, actively developing innovative cancer treatments and therapies. The company’s ongoing commitment to cancer care is not just corporate social responsibility—it's a strategic move that aligns well with its pipeline of oncology products and enhances its brand reputation.
The collaboration with a culturally relevant figure like Joshua Jackson attracts attention and brings an emotional resonance for those who grew up watching him, making the conversation about cancer screenings more accessible. This innovative cross-industry partnership not only promotes public health but could also enhance AstraZeneca’s brand visibility among younger audiences, who are now entering critical health check-up stages.
Investors should note the potential for increased interest and investment in AstraZeneca due to such initiatives. The company's proactive approach in cancer awareness can lead to greater market sway, especially as public interest in health and wellness continues to grow post-pandemic. Additionally, AstraZeneca's donations to the Hockey Fights Cancer initiative underscore its commitment to research and community engagement, potentially paving the way for future partnerships and collaborations.
In conclusion, AstraZeneca’s initiative is both a public health imperative and a strategic marketing play. Fans and investors alike should take this opportunity to engage in discussions about health and consider proactive screening measures. The campaign serves as a reminder that early action can make a significant difference in cancer outcomes.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
Joshua Jackson is joined by Gritty to take the body check off the ice.
AstraZeneca and Joshua Jackson have teamed up as part of a national public health campaign designed to encourage fans to Get Body Checked Against Cancer and be proactive in speaking with their doctor . Joshua Jackson brings a unique cultural relevance to the initiative, resonating with a generation that grew up watching him on screen and is now entering a life stage where conversations about cancer risk and screenings become increasingly important.
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260310693422/en/
Joshua Jackson teams up with Gritty and AstraZeneca to encourage fans to Get Body Checked Against Cancer. Photo Credit: Marie Lombardo, photographer
To help bring the message to life in a way that feels accessible, engaging and familiar, Joshua Jackson is joined by Gritty, the iconic mascot of the Philadelphia Flyers, to capture why it’s so important to get body checked. The pairing draws a parallel between a well-timed body check on the ice and a timely check-in with a doctor—both moments when taking action can make a meaningful difference.
Mohit Manrao, Senior Vice President, Head of US Oncology, AstraZeneca, said: “Beating cancer takes a team—and action saves lives. By teaming up with Joshua Jackson and Gritty, we’re calling on fans to get informed and get screened. With an estimated 65% of Americans behind on recommended screenings 1 and cancer rates rising among people under 50, 2 now is the time to talk to your doctor about your risk and the screenings that are right for you. Don’t wait—get body checked.”
Actor/Producer Joshua Jackson said: “People close to me have been diagnosed with cancer, and I’m at an age where I should know my own risks. So, if you watched me when I was a kid and you were a kid, it’s time to talk to your doctor about getting screened. Together with AstraZeneca and my good friend, Gritty, we don’t want you to wait to talk to your doctor.”
The Get Body Checked Against Cancer campaign encourages people to take control of their health by talking with their doctors about their cancer risk factors and whether cancer screenings are right for them. The campaign supports Hockey Fights Cancer™, a joint initiative of the National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) powered by the V Foundation for Cancer Research. Since 2023, AstraZeneca has proudly served as the first-ever official national partner of Hockey Fights Cancer.
Gritty, mascot of the Philadelphia Flyers, said: “There's a lot of important checks out there—poke checks, paychecks, rain checks—but here’s a reality check…Get body checked. Checkmate.”
To date, AstraZeneca has donated $1.1 million to Hockey Fights Cancer through the V Foundation to help fund game-changing cancer research.
For more information about what screenings may be right for you, to find a screening provider near you and for a list of questions you and your loved ones can ask your doctor, visit Getbodychecked.com . Follow AstraZeneca on Instagram and YouTube to see all the content with Joshua Jackson and Gritty.
NHL and the NHL Shield are registered trademarks and Hockey Fights Cancer name and logo and NHL Mascots are trademarks of the National Hockey League. NHL and NHL team marks are the property of the NHL and its teams. © 2026 NHL. All Rights Reserved.
NHLPA and the NHLPA logo are registered trademarks of the National Hockey League Players’ Association. © NHLPA. All Rights Reserved.
Notes
AstraZeneca in Oncology
AstraZeneca is leading a revolution in oncology with the ambition to provide cures for cancer in every form, following the science to understand cancer and all its complexities to discover, develop and deliver life-changing medicines to patients.
The Company focuses on some of the most challenging cancers. It is through persistent innovation that AstraZeneca has built one of the most diverse portfolios and pipelines in the industry, with the potential to catalyze changes in the practice of medicine and transform the patient experience.
AstraZeneca has the vision to redefine cancer care and, one day, eliminate cancer as a cause of death.
AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/NYSE: AZN) is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca’s innovative medicines are sold in more than 125 countries and used by millions of patients worldwide. Please visit astrazeneca-us.com and follow the Company on social media @AstraZeneca . The contents of AstraZeneca’s website do not form part of this document and no one should rely on such websites or the contents thereof in reading this document.
References
- Meister K. 65% of Americans 21 years of age and older report not being up to date on at least one routine cancer screening . Prevent Cancer Foundation. Published February 21, 2023. Accessed February 27, 2025. https://preventcancer.org/news/65-of-americans-21-years-of-age-and-older-report-not-being-up-to-date-on-at-least-one-routine-cancer-screening/
- Shiels MS, Haque AT, Berrington de Gonzalez A, et al. Trends in cancer incidence and mortality rates in early-onset and older-onset age groups in the United States, 2010-2019. American Association for Cancer Research. Published July 23 2025. Accessed February 25, 2026. https://aacrjournals.org/cancerdiscovery/article-abstract/15/7/1363/763190/Trends-in-Cancer-Incidence-and-Mortality-Rates-in?redirectedFrom=fulltext
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260310693422/en/
Media Inquiries
Fiona Cookson, +1 212 814-3923
Lauren-Jei McCarthy, +1 347 918-7001
US Media Mailbox : usmediateam@astrazeneca.com
FAQ**
How does AstraZeneca PLC AZN plan to measure the effectiveness of the "Get Body Checked Against Cancer" campaign in encouraging screenings among the target demographic?
In what ways will the partnership with Joshua Jackson and Gritty enhance AstraZeneca PLC AZN's visibility and engagement in the oncology space?
What specific outcomes does AstraZeneca PLC AZN hope to achieve through its role as the first-ever official national partner of Hockey Fights Cancer?
How does AstraZeneca PLC AZN's commitment to cancer research, as highlighted by its $1.1 million donation, align with its long-term vision for oncology?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about AstraZeneca PLC (NASDAQ: AZN).
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