Wilmington, Del. — AstraZeneca and YMCA of the USA have launched a five-year, multimillion-dollar partnership aimed at expanding cancer screening, early detection education and support for survivors.
The partnership, announced at the Aspen Ideas: Health conference, will combine AstraZeneca’s oncology expertise with the YMCA’s nationwide community network.
During its first two years, the initiative aims to reach 175,000 people in 75 communities with locally tailored programs designed to increase awareness of cancer screening and early detection.
YMCA of the USA will also expand support for people living with, through and beyond cancer, building on more than 15 years of programs intended to help survivors improve their health and well-being.
Mohit Manrao, Senior Vice President, Head of US Oncology, AstraZeneca and President, AstraZeneca Foundation, said: “We are in the golden era of cancer care, yet cancer screening and early detection rates for many types of cancer remain low, with significant disparities across zip codes. Our partnership with Y-USA can directly reach millions of Americans at scale and at the grassroots level because every patient, regardless of zip code, deserves support throughout their cancer journey.”
Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO, Y-USA, said: “We are bringing together AstraZeneca’s global expertise in life-changing innovations and the YMCA’s expansive community reach to transform our nation’s approach to cancer care. Over the next five years, we will expand screening, early detection, and survivorship programs to reach more people in the places they live and help them lead longer, healthier lives.”
The organizations said advances in screening, early detection and targeted treatments have helped people live longer after a cancer diagnosis. At the same time, the number of cancer diagnoses continues to rise, increasing the need for earlier intervention and support throughout treatment and recovery.
A 2025 Prevent Cancer Foundation survey found that 51% of U.S. adults ages 21 and older had attended a routine medical appointment or cancer screening during the previous year, down 10% from its 2024 survey.
The survey also found that 73% of respondents were more likely to schedule routine cancer screenings after learning about the benefits of early detection. The five-year survival rate for many cancers approaches 90% when the disease is detected early.
