While thousands of men die every year from cancer, mostly from not getting screened for treatable prostate cancer and dectecting early stage colon cancer, the NFL is still using resources to promote breast cancer "awareness." As far as public health goes, breast cancer is far beyond the awareness phase. What is this really about? Is it just cynical marketing or an extension of the American obsession with breasts.I'm certainly not against efforts to save lives. I'm not saying that people within the NFL don't really care about women, but if they really want to save lives, they should speak to the largest segment of their audience, men. Men are notorious for not wanting to go to the doctor. The NFL is the perfect platform to break down some of those barriers.
It's time for someone to figure out this simple fact.
3 comments:
Mr. Durden, while I enjoy your blog and analysis, I often do not agree with you on your stances. On this one, I agree 100% (I almost said 300%-ha) While as I female love watching football, it is clear the audience at hand is men. Marketers do understand this, after I all certainly will not be purchasing Viagra or Cialis, which is essentially in between each beer commercial.
There is obsession with breasts by Americans. I almost feel that breast cancer awareness is so trendy now, that each organization and company must contribute to be a part of the trendy crowd. September was Prostrate Cancer Month...perhaps, the NFL could have shed light on this particular cancer. Like you, this is not an insult to the millions of brave women who survive breast cancer and to those that fell to it. I also realize that small numbers of men also fight breast cancer. But, we are far past awareness for this disease, pink is everywhere, and the focus should be strictly on research and prevention.
I realize this is a lenthgy comment. I have thought long and hard about this since October 1, where suddenly the world turned pink and all other diseases, cancers, or issues did not exist. I will conclude with the fact that October is also domestic abuse awareness month. Perhaps, that would be an even worthier cause for the NFL to attempt next year.
Thanks again, Mr. Durden for sharing your observation on something that is very hard to say.
Wow I was thinking the same thing. As a cancer survivor and NOT of the breast kind, it seems to me that we are forgetting about all the other types of cancer there are in this world. I totally agree with you there.
I just found your website. Cool stuff. I was thinking similar 2. Kad and Anonymous, thanks for your comments. I too am a cancer survivor (not the breast kind). I feel ashamed sometimes the jealousy I get when pink is everywhere and yet, no one seems to ever hear of my cancer. It's nice to know not everyone is obsessed with pink. Kad, good suggestions for the NFL on domestic abuse. I would add dog violence (then again I am from Philly but just moved to Atlanta, so Vick is on my mind). Check out your sight later.
Tami L., Atlanta GA
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