You’ve probably heard of Movember before—it’s a month-long event where men around the world grow mustaches to support men’s health.
It began as a way to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and education but has since expanded to include other cancers that affect men such as testicular cancer or mental illness like depression.
Movember is also about helping men live happier, healthier lives by encouraging the early detection of many illnesses and providing resources for those suffering from them.
Keep reading to learn more about how it started, what it does for men’s health, and how to participate.
What is Movember?
Movember is a global charity movement that raises funds and awareness for men’s health issues. It began in Melbourne, Australia in 2003. Since then, it has spread to 21 countries and is a major way to raise awareness for men’s health.
The goal of Movember is to increase early detection of prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention in males by raising funds that enable faster research into these causes.
It aims to balance gender-based health initiatives by focusing on men’s health for the month—similar to breast cancer awareness month every year in October.
There are many events that go on during November to raise awareness and funds for Movember. These include:
- Grooming Days – where men put on their finest clothes and get their hair done at local barber shops or salons.
- Best Mustache Competitions – where at the end of the month groups of friends or coworkers vote on the best mustache and bid an amount for their suggested charity.
- Shave Days – where guys shave their heads using clippers from head to toe (or waxing if they prefer).
- Dress Like Your Father Day – where you dress up like your father did back when he first started growing his mustache (think leisure suits).
How Has Movember Helped Men’s Health?
Movember has been a tremendous success. In 2007, Movember officially launched in the United States. Over the last decade, it has raised over $800 million for men’s health and funded over 1,000 programs.
By 2030, they aim to reduce the number of men dying prematurely by 25%. Their campaigns include:
- Funding research into prostate cancer and testicular cancer
- Investigating mental health problems like depression and suicide
- Raising awareness about the importance of early detection
- Discouraging smoking and excessive alcohol use
- Working with schools to educate youth about taking care of their bodies
The funds have supported research projects and awareness campaigns that help men get exams and access the information they need to be healthy. Women also get involved by donating online and spreading the word about the campaign.
What Does Movember Support?
Prostate cancer is the focus of most of Movember’s activities. However, the month is about raising awareness for men’s health issues in general—and isn’t exclusive to prostate cancer.
Movember is an opportunity for men to take control of their health by making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, exercising more regularly, or healthier food choices.
The organization encourages its participants to make these changes because they know there are many benefits associated with taking care of yourself, including:
- Better physical fitness levels
- Increased energy levels
- Improved quality of life
- Lower risk factors for heart disease
- Reduced risk factors for depression/anxiety disorder (reduced suicide risk)
- Lower stress levels (less reliance on alcohol or drugs)
In addition, there are other ways men can get involved besides growing mustaches. Including getting involved with fundraising activities or donating online.
When is National Impotence Month?
In November, we celebrate National Impotency Month. Impotence is the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It can result from physical or psychological causes and hormone imbalance. While Movember’s focus began with prostate cancer it has grown to include other important health issues including mental health and physical activity—which all can contribute to erectile dysfunction.
How is Impotence Treated?
The most effective treatment for sexual dysfunction is a PDE5 inhibitor like Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra. These medications work by relaxing the blood vessels and allowing more blood flow during arousal. Many men have learned they can experience impressive results with this type of treatment.
While these prescriptions may be among the most common ways to improve performance, there are a variety of other methods that help men cope with impotence. Your doctor will make the smartest recommendation for your personal health.
If you decide you’d like to try treatment for ED, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before beginning. They’ll make sure you understand all of your options and any risks or side effects.
Remember to Schedule an Annual Checkup
If you haven’t already, Movember is a fantastic reminder to schedule an annual checkup. Make an appointment with your primary care physician or trusted clinic, like Limitless Male, to get started.
Don’t wait until it is too late. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, or if you have questions about your own health, we encourage you to make an appointment as soon as possible.
Movember is all about checking in with your doctor and getting screened for any men’s health issues. The mustache part is simply a symbol to remind you to keep up with your annual exams.
Celebrating Movember is Easy
Movember has become a global phenomenon. It now takes place in more than 20 countries. The movement has raised over $1 billion since its inception.
They designed the campaign to raise awareness of men’s health issues like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health problems, while also encouraging men to get screened for these illnesses.
Joining can be as simple as growing a mustache and spreading awareness or donating to the cause. Celebrating Movember is an awesome way to support men’s health.
The best part? You don’t actually have to grow a ‘stache to contribute. All you need to do is make a small commitment to raise funds and awareness for men’s health.
Contact us today to learn more about men’s health and how our services can help.
