Fighting for Those Who've Fought for Us: ZERO Prostate Cancer and AstraZeneca Drive Urgent Call to Save More Veterans During NASCAR's Patriotic Weekend

CHARLOTTE, N.C. and ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a moment of national urgency sparked by Former President Joe Biden's prostate cancer diagnosis, ZERO Prostate Cancer (ZERO)—the nation's largest prostate cancer organization for advocacy and support is teaming up with AstraZeneca and NASCAR drivers Josh Bilicki and JJ Yeley this Memorial Day Weekend to honor those lost, raise awareness, and ignite action during one of racing's most patriotic events.

With the roar of the Coca-Cola 600 and BetMGM 300 engines as a backdrop, the campaign brings a critical spotlight to a disease that affects 1 in 8 men in the U.S., and even more alarmingly, strikes military Veterans at double the rate of the general population.

This timely partnership comes during NASCAR Salutes, the sport's annual tribute to America's fallen heroes, amplifying a message that is both deeply personal and nationally urgent: prostate cancer is taking too many lives.

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men—and Veterans are twice as likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Every 15 minutes in America, a man dies from the disease.

"Prostate cancer has become too big to ignore," said Courtney Bugler, President and CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer. "There are more than 3 million men living with prostate cancer. This year alone, over 300,000 men will be diagnosed, and more than 35,000 will die from the disease. We must break down the barriers to early detection, especially for Veterans and others who face higher risks. This Memorial Day, we race not just to remember—but to save lives."

ZERO, with support from AstraZeneca, will serve as Primary Sponsor of the No. 66 Ford Mustang (Garage 66/MBM Motorsports) driven by Josh Bilicki in the Coca-Cola 600 NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, May 26 (Amazon Prime), and the No. 53 Chevrolet Camaro (Joey Gase Racing) driven by JJ Yeley in the BetMGM 300 NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday, May 25 (The CW Network).

Both cars will feature custom ZERO-themed paint schemes, and the weekend will include garage activations, VIP guests, and coordinated media to deliver an unmistakable message: Early detection saves lives.

"Memorial Day weekend is a powerful moment to elevate the conversation around Veterans' health," said Daniele Paone, VP US, GYN/GU Cancer Franchise, AstraZeneca. "Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among U.S. Veterans, which is why early detection and access to quality care is critical. We're proud to join ZERO Prostate Cancer and NASCAR to raise awareness among veterans and all men at risk. It's part of our bold ambition to one day eliminate cancer as a cause of death."

For nearly 30 years, ZERO has been at the forefront of the battle against prostate cancer, as the nation's #1 provider of resources, programs, services, and support to patients and families affected by this devastating disease.

"This weekend isn't just about racing—it's about saving lives," said Driver Josh Bilicki. "President Biden's diagnosis has put prostate cancer in the spotlight, and we're here to keep it there. If one more man gets tested because of this, we've already made a difference."

"As a 48-year-old man and part of a sport that's deeply tied to the Veteran community, this message hits home," said Driver JJ Yeley. "Veterans are more likely to face this disease, and early detection is key. If we can help even one person take that step, every lap will be worth it."

ZERO's effort aligns with its bold initiative launched earlier this year to save 100,000 lives by 2035 with a focus on expanding education, outreach, and improved access to quality care for Veterans, Black men, and rural communities—those hit hardest by the disease.

"ZERO is equally proud to stand with AstraZeneca, Josh, JJ, the entire Veteran community, and racing fans across the world this Memorial Day to remind every man to talk to their doctor, know their risk, and get screened," said Bugler. "A Simple PSA Blood test can mean the difference between life and death because prostate cancer doesn't discriminate—but together, we can beat it."

Watch The Race Live:

• BetMGM 300 (Xfinity Series): Saturday, May 24 – 1:00 PM ET on the CW
• Coca-Cola 600 (Cup Series): Sunday, May 25 – 6:00 PM ET on Amazon Prime

For information on risk, PSA testing, and ZERO's life-saving programs, visit ZEROcancer.org.

About ZERO Prostate Cancer

ZERO Prostate Cancer (ZERO) is on a mission to improve and save lives from prostate cancer through advocacy, awareness, education, and support. Formerly known as the National Prostate Cancer Coalition, ZERO was founded in 1996 to stand up for people impacted by prostate cancer. Today, ZERO serves as the nation's leading prostate cancer organization, advancing a future where prostate cancer detection is early, support is unwavering, and care is accessible to all. For nearly 30 years, ZERO has led the way in prostate cancer advocacy, screenings, and partnerships, successfully unlocking funding toward breakthrough discoveries, treatments, and lifesaving access to care. 

As the nation's #1 provider of prostate cancer resources, programs, and services, ZERO has supported millions of people at-risk or diagnosed, and their families. As the voice of the prostate cancer community, ZERO's urgent focus on breaking barriers to survival—by closing gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and care—brings critical attention to those most likely to be impacted by this disease. Learn more at ZEROcancer.org

MEDIA CONTACT:
Steph Johnson
Vice President Communications
ZERO Prostate Cancer
[email protected]

SOURCE Zero Prostate Cancer