The global event “Movember” began in Australia in 2003 when two friends began discussing how the “moustache” had gone out of style. They decided to bring the “mo” back by asking some friends to join them and set guidelines that it would cost each participant $10 each. They decided the money from the mo’s would go towards a cause and chose men’s health issues, specifically prostate cancer, but also testicular, mental health and suicide. Eventually, a foundation was formed to support Movember’s aims to reduce the number of men dying prematurely by 25% by 2030.
Why Men’s Health Matters
Prostate Cancer: According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in 118 countries worldwide (American Cancer Society). Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. For 66% of the world, it’s the #1 cancer in men due to not having ready access to early detection, the prevalence of risk factors, and treatment, things that the Movember initiative helps to overcome.
Testicular Cancer: Often diagnosed in younger men, testicular cancer can significantly impact both physical and mental health. “In 2020, testicular cancer was the most common cancer in men aged 15 to 44 in 62 countries worldwide” (Znaor et al., 2022). [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35277970/]. Movember focuses on improving survivorship and quality of life for those affected.
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention: Mental health remains a silent struggle for many men, who are often reluctant to seek help due to stigma. Tragically, three out of four suicides are by men. Movember aims to break down these barriers and provide resources, encouraging men to open up and seek the support they need.
How to Get Involved
Movember provides several ways for everyone to participate:
•Grow a Mo: Whatever you prefer, handlebar or stubble, growing a mustache is a visible way to show support.
•Move for Movember: Commit to running or walking 60 kilometers (37.5 miles) during November to honor the 60 men lost to suicide globally every hour.
•Host a Mo-Ment: Bring people together for a fundraiser or awareness event to spark important conversations about men’s health.
•Donate: Every contribution supports programs that can make a difference in the lives of men worldwide.
The Movember idea mushroomed into what it is today – an annual charity event across 21 countries that raises awareness and funds for men’s health issues. Movember is a call to action! Use this Movember to break the silence and raise awareness. Together, we can change—and save—lives. For more information, visit Movember’s official website or join the conversation using #Movember.
McDowell, Sandy. Cancer Society Research News. https://www.cancer.org/research/acs-research-news/prostate-cancer-is-number-1-for-118-countries-worldwide.html#:~:text=Prostate%20cancer%20is%20more%20widely,blue%20countries)%20than%20prostate%20cancer%20than%20prostate%20cancer).
Znaor A, Skakkebaek NE, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Kuliš T, Laversanne M, Gurney J, Sarfati D, McGlynn KA, Bray F. “Global patterns in testicular cancer incidence and mortality in 2020.” International Journal of Cancer. 2022;151(5):692-698. doi: 10.1002/ijc.33999. Epub 2022 Mar 26. PMID: 35277970.
