CVS raises money for American Cancer Society, educates on sun safety

CVS Health is rounding up at the registers and more to raise money for the American Cancer Society.

The retailer is running the promotion through July 17, where shoppers can stock up on its store brand products and national brand products and round up their register ring or make a $1 or $3 donation at the register.

"Together, the American Cancer Society and CVS Health have the expertise and reach to help people in communities across the nation better understand and engage in sun safety as cancer prevention," said Karen Knudsen, chief executive officer of the American Cancer Society. "These efforts, as well as the dollars donated by CVS customers, serve as an important continuation of our partnership to improve lives for cancer patients through research, advocacy, and patient support."

CVS is the official retail pharmacy partner of the American Cancer Society, and this year marks the fourth year CVS Pharmacy has hosted a national in-store fundraising campaign to support ACS. This year's campaign will focus on sun safety as cancer prevention, honoring and supporting millions of survivors as well as individuals currently in treatment.

"Our customers and colleagues share our commitment to giving back to the communities we serve," said Eileen Howard Boone, senior vice president, corporate social responsibility and philanthropy for CVS Health. "This in-store campaign provides an opportunity to get involved and support the American Cancer Society's critical efforts to combat cancer and educate people on sun safety this Summer."

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancer types and can affect anyone. Skin cancer rates have been on the rise over the past few decades, with more than 5 million skin cancers diagnosed each year in the United States — more than all other cancers combined. To help prevent skin cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends protecting yourself and loved ones from the sun's rays by using broad spectrum sunscreen daily and avoiding the sun's strongest rays by covering up or staying inside during peak hours. More detailed skin cancer and sun safety information can be found at www.cancer.org/healthy/be-safe-in-sun.

Since 2018, ACS and CVS Health together have raised more than $15 million for the fight against cancer, supporting breakthrough research and cancer prevention initiatives, including tobacco control.