Exact Sciences Corp., a leader in cancer screening and diagnostic testing, has announced a new awareness campaign in collaboration with actor and horror film icon Matthew Lillard. The initiative aims to motivate adults aged 45 and older to get screened for colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.¹
Best known for his memorable roles in Scream and Scooby-Doo, Lillard is leveraging his reputation in horror films to address a very real fear: cancer screening. In this effort, he reminds audiences that while horror movies thrive on fear, screening for colorectal cancer does not need to be frightening.
“I know a lot about scary situations—and I can say from my own experience using the Cologuard® test that colon cancer screening isn’t one of them,” said Lillard. “For me, screening with Cologuard was a simple and convenient way to be proactive about my health. On the flip side, I’ve seen the impact of cancer up close, and I’m proud to partner with Exact Sciences and Cologuard to help people take action against this horrible disease.”
Screening Without Scares
The new SCREEN campaign highlights the Cologuard test, a noninvasive, at-home option for people at average risk of colorectal cancer. Unlike traditional methods, Cologuard requires no special preparation, dietary changes, or time off for a clinical appointment. Approved by the FDA in 2014, the test has already been used in more than 20 million screenings.²
Colorectal cancer is unique in that it can often be detected early, when treatment is more effective. In some cases, screening may even prevent cancer by identifying precancerous polyps that can be removed before they develop into disease. Statistics show that when detected in its earliest stages, colorectal cancer has a five-year survival rate of about 90%.³
By tying the campaign to horror themes, Exact Sciences and Lillard hope to highlight the importance of making the right choice. As the campaign notes, horror characters often make poor decisions—such as hiding in the wrong place or ignoring obvious danger. For adults 45 and older, the truly frightening choice is delaying or avoiding screening altogether.
A Fresh Approach to Awareness
“Colorectal cancer is often considered the most preventable, yet least prevented cancer,”³ said Jeremy Truxal, vice president of screening marketing at Exact Sciences. “Partnering with Matthew Lillard allows us to reach people in a fresh, memorable way—helping them move past their fears while keeping the horror and drama for the big screen, not in their colon cancer screening.”
The campaign encourages people to visit ScreenWithoutScares.com to view the new video and learn more about the Cologuard test.
About the Cologuard® and Cologuard Plus™ Tests
Developed in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic, the Cologuard® and Cologuard Plus™ tests are guideline-recommended, noninvasive screening options for average-risk adults aged 45 or older. The Cologuard test revolutionized colorectal cancer screening by analyzing stool samples for DNA markers and blood linked to cancer and precancer. Patients can complete the test kit at home and mail it to the lab for results, eliminating the need for invasive preparation or in-clinic procedures.
Since its introduction, Cologuard has been included in national screening guidelines from both the American Cancer Society (2018) and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (2021). More than 20 million people have already used the test to take control of their health.
Building on this foundation, the FDA-approved Cologuard Plus test introduces novel biomarkers, enhanced laboratory processes, and improved sample stability. These advancements are designed to increase accuracy and reduce false positives, thereby minimizing unnecessary follow-up colonoscopies. Together, the Cologuard and Cologuard Plus tests demonstrate Exact Sciences’ commitment to expanding access to reliable, innovative cancer screening solutions.
About Exact Sciences
A leading provider of cancer screening and diagnostic tests, Exact Sciences (Nasdaq: EXAS) helps patients and health care providers make timely, informed decisions before, during, and after a cancer diagnosis. The company’s growing portfolio includes well-established brands such as Cologuard® and Oncotype DX®, along with innovative solutions like the Cancerguard™ test for multi-cancer early detection and the Oncodetect™ test for molecular residual disease and recurrence monitoring. Exact Sciences continues to invest in a robust pipeline of advanced cancer diagnostics aimed at improving outcomes. For more information, visit ExactSciences.com, follow @ExactSciences on X, or connect on LinkedIn and Facebook.
