Dak Prescott is sparking the conversation regarding colon cancer with the new video “Sh-t Talk,” as part of the colon cancer awareness initiative Lead From Behind. In the video, Prescott tackles the importance of screenings for the illness.
The clip, in partnership with Colorectal Cancer Alliance and Ryan Reynolds-led Maximum Effort, features the NFL star breaking the stigma on screenings for colon cancer. Prescott, whose mother died after battling the disease, is taking the notion of “sh-t talking” on the football field and twisting it to be a push for ensuring one’s health instead.
“As a professional quarterback, I get a lot of shit,” says the Dallas Cowboys player amid clips of fans trash-talking the 30-year-old. “And I get it — when you are not a fan of something, sh-tting on it can make you feel good. But what if I told you that now, it can do some good, too.”
The professional athlete explains an “important-ass message” of home screening kits, encouraging people who are 45 or older to speak to their medical providers about testing.
For Prescott, sh-t-talking doesn’t always have to be negative — it is a way to stay on top of one’s health.
“It’s that easy to get screened for colon cancer and make your feelings abundantly clear. So talk to your doctor today,” he says.
Dak released a statement regarding his new partnership with the health cause, saying his mother’s passing from cancer was a motivator, and also noting that Black Americans are significantly impacted by the disease.
“Losing my mother to colon cancer was devastating, and no one
should have to go through that,” said Prescott. “That’s why I started the colon cancer screening and research pillar of my Faith Fight Finish Foundation. Partnering with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and LEAD FROM BEHIND is another way I can let people, especially Black Americans who are at greater risk, know that colon cancer is preventable and there are a variety of screening options.”With Black Americans being 15% more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 35% more likely to die from the disease, the awareness campaign is vital for the health and well-being of underrepresented groups. With this in mind, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance has also launched a health equity fund that will provide Cologuard screening kits in communities of color. More information on Lead From Behind can be found on its platform.