The Youth Football Association is collaborating with the PREVENT-CRC team to further raise awareness about this important research initiative. Led by Professor Godfrey Grech, the PREVENT-CRC Project is a community-driven research initiative designed to identify and address the factors that can help prevent colorectal cancer.
The Youth FA is actively supporting the project by facilitating access to the PREVENT-CRC Community Research Mobile Unit at selected grassroots festivals organised by the Association throughout the football season, starting with the Under-10 Enjoying The Game Festival held on Saturday (17 January) at the Centenary Stadium.
The objective of this collaboration is to encourage parents and relatives of young players taking part in these festivals to visit the Mobile Unit and voluntarily participate in the research initiative.
Stephanie Rocco, Secretary General of the Youth FA, said: “The Youth FA is associated with grassroots and youth football, but our mission extends beyond the sporting dimension. We are also committed to promoting healthy lifestyle choices and the wellbeing of the wider community alongside our social mission. This is why we are pleased to support the PREVENT CRC project at our events.”
Describing the project as a tangible step towards a stronger and more effective system where research and innovation work together to prioritise prevention over cure, Professor Godfrey Grech said: “We are very pleased to see sports organisations such as the Youth FA and Ħamrun Ħanin supporting this initiative.
“Their collaboration strengthens our outreach efforts, as our presence at sports events encourages more people to take part in this research project. Ultimately, the significance of these initiatives lies not only in helping those in need, but also in establishing a solid foundation for future generations to live healthier, better lives.”
Launched last year, the project also aims to detect the risks of colon cancer at an early stage – before symptoms appear – thereby reducing the need for unnecessary medical procedures. It also contributes to the more efficient use of healthcare resources, allowing them to be redirected to those who need them most.
WHAT DOES THE PROCESS INVOLVE?
Research participants are guided throughout the process by a specialised team that provides education on sub-optimal health and the prevention of chronic disease.
The visit includes:
1. A short questionnaire (2 minutes)
2. Consent and registration to participate in the research project (2 minutes)
3. A selection of routine tests such as blood pressure and glucose testing, if required (5 minutes)
4. A blood sample taken by a health professional (5 minutes)
5. An explanation of further tests conducted as part of the research and additional instructions (2 minutes)
6. Access to free online health talks via email
Those interested in participating may register here: https://investinyour.health/prevent-crc/