Health
AstraZeneca Joins ZERO Prostate Cancer's Historic 'Blitz the Barriers' Initiative as a Founding Partner
ZERO Prostate Cancer, the nation's leading prostate cancer organization dedicated to advocacy, awareness, education, and support, today announced AstraZeneca has joined their groundbreaking Blitz the Barriers initiative as a founding partner. The most ambitious initiative in the history of U.S. prostate cancer programs and services, Blitz the Barriers aims to close the survival gap in the highest-risk communities and save 100,000 lives by 2035.
About this update from Astrazeneca Plc
Partnership Aims To Save 100,000 Lives by Closing the Prostate Cancer Survival Gap In Highest-Risk Communities ALEXANDRIA, Va., June 15, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ZERO Prostate Cancer, the nation's leading prostate cancer organization dedicated to advocacy, awareness, education, and support, today announced AstraZeneca has joined their groundbreaking Blitz the Barriers initiative as a founding partner. The most ambitious initiative in the history of U.S. prostate cancer programs and services, Blitz the Barriers aims to close the survival gap in the highest-risk communities and save 100,000 lives by 2035. Blitz the Barriers breaks down barriers to prostate cancer survival by addressing critical disparities in early detection and treatment through screening, education, and support services delivered directly to communities. Black men are 70% more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and twice as likely to die from the disease compared to other groups. Veterans also face an elevated risk, with diagnosis rates double those of the general population. The Blitz the Barriers initiative delivers both in-person community events and virtual resources to dismantle obstacles, empower communities, and pave the way for more sustainable lifesaving interventions. "We are thrilled to partner with AstraZeneca to expand the reach and impact of Blitz the Barriers," said Courtney Bugler, President and CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer. "This partnership represents a significant step forward in our mission to improve and save lives. AstraZeneca's commitment to reducing barriers and access to care aligns perfectly with our vision for a future where detection is early, support is unwavering, and care is accessible to all." "AstraZeneca has a bold ambition to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. We believe every patient facing prostate cancer deserves the best possible care and the chance for long-term survival," said Daniele Paone, US Vice President, Head of DNA Damage Repair, Gynecological and Genitourinary Cancer Franchise at AstraZeneca. "We're proud to join ZERO Prostate Cancer to address critical disparities in early detection and treatment through screening, education, and support services delivered directly to communities. Through this partnership, we will make a meaningful difference in the lives of men and their families impac...