Arsenal Women’s team has long championed meaningful causes, using their platform to promote social progress. Their latest initiative, launched in collaboration with MSD UK and The Eve Appeal, continues this legacy. Titled ‘Defend Your Tomorrow’, the campaign focuses on increasing awareness and participation in cervical health screenings and HPV vaccinations.
This initiative aligns with the NHS’s long-term vision of improving women’s health outcomes by encouraging early preventive measures. Leveraging their influence and deep connection with fans, Arsenal Women aim to create a ripple effect of awareness, education, and action.
Why Cervical Health Awareness Is Crucial
Maintaining cervical health is an essential part of women’s overall wellbeing. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), issues related to cervical health have significantly impacted women globally. Despite being largely preventable through early screenings and HPV vaccinations, participation in these measures has declined in recent years.
The Risks of Late Detection
One of the biggest concerns in cervical health is the difficulty of treatment when issues are detected at advanced stages. For example, hospitals often use port-a-catheters like the Bard PowerPort lawsuit to deliver medications efficiently. However, according to TorHoerman Law, this device has been linked to serious complications, including infections and mechanical failure. Several legal actions have been filed, accusing the manufacturer of failing to disclose potential risks while prioritizing profit.
These challenges emphasize the importance of preventive health care. By spreading awareness, campaigns like ‘Defend Your Tomorrow’ aim to empower women to take timely and informed action regarding their health.
Arsenal Players at the Forefront
The campaign features prominent Arsenal Women’s stars, including Leah Williamson, Beth Mead, Katie McCabe, Kyra Cooney-Cross, and Manu Zinsberger. These athletes are not just figureheads—they’re actively involved in campaign efforts, from participating in events to sharing personal stories on public platforms.
Beth Mead’s Connection
Beth Mead, in particular, brings a deeply emotional perspective. In 2023, she lost her mother, June Mead, after a long health battle. Since then, Beth has been a passionate advocate for regular screenings and check-ups. Her authenticity and personal connection make the campaign more relatable and inspire fans to pay attention to their own health needs.
Using Football to Drive Awareness
One of the campaign’s most impactful moments came during the North London Derby in February 2025. Arsenal Women faced Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium in front of over 50,000 fans—a perfect stage to highlight the importance of women’s health.
During the match, educational messages promoting cervical screenings and HPV vaccinations were displayed throughout the venue. Players and ambassadors engaged with fans directly, encouraging them to visit the official Defend Your Tomorrow website or speak with their GP to learn more about preventive health measures.
Reaching Underserved Communities
The campaign doesn’t stop at the stadium. Arsenal Women are also reaching into the heart of local communities across North London. Over the coming year, they plan to host educational sessions targeting groups that traditionally have lower access to healthcare services.
Studies indicate that women from ethnic minorities and lower-income backgrounds are less likely to participate in cervical screenings. Barriers such as stigma, lack of information, and limited access can all contribute to this gap. The campaign aims to break down these obstacles by offering resources, support, and community-led discussions that foster trust and accessibility.
The Role of the HPV Vaccine in Preventive Health
A key objective of the campaign is to raise awareness around the HPV vaccine. This vaccine plays a vital role in maintaining cervical health by protecting against the human papillomavirus, a major contributing factor in cervical issues.
Since 2008, the UK government has offered the HPV vaccine to girls in Year 8 of school. However, up to 25% of eligible pupils still miss out, often due to misinformation or vaccine hesitancy. The ‘Defend Your Tomorrow’ campaign works to counter these challenges by offering clear, trustworthy information to parents, schools, and young people.
Football Clubs as Health Advocates
The Arsenal Women’s team is setting an example of how sports organizations can support public health awareness. Football clubs have a unique opportunity—they speak to a wide, diverse audience and can inspire action across all age groups and communities.
This isn’t Arsenal’s first foray into social impact. The club has previously championed causes such as mental health awareness, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. ‘Defend Your Tomorrow’ continues that tradition, demonstrating how football can create meaningful change beyond the pitch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why has Arsenal Women focused on cervical health? Arsenal Women are committed to advocating for women’s wellbeing. This campaign reflects their long-standing mission to promote equality, empowerment, and health education through sport.
- How can fans support the ‘Defend Your Tomorrow’ campaign? Supporters can contribute by sharing campaign messages on social media, encouraging loved ones to get screened, and attending related events.
- Will the Arsenal Men’s team participate? While the campaign is currently led by the Women’s team, there’s potential for the Men’s team to get involved and amplify the message. Such collaboration would further highlight the club’s unified commitment to community wellbeing.
Football as a Catalyst for Change
The ‘Defend Your Tomorrow’ campaign is more than a health initiative—it’s a powerful reminder of how sport can drive real social impact. Arsenal Women are using their platform to educate, empower, and engage communities in essential health conversations. Through personal storytelling, public events, and community outreach, the team encourages proactive, informed decisions that can lead to healthier futures for all.
