Movember
Movember (a contraction of MOustache and noVEMBER) is an annual event that uses the moustache as a symbol to raise awareness about men’s health issues.
Since its creation in Melbourne, Australia, in 2003, Movember has helped raise funds to support more than 1200 research and prevention projects in over 20 countries.
The moustache, a symbol of awareness
You may have seen people growing moustaches during the Novembers of previous years ? The goal of Movember is not so much to grow a moustache but rather to raise awareness and open dialogue about men’s health issues. The moustache is simply a symbol to remind us to talk about these important topics, as men are often less likely to discuss their health problems than women, for example.
The challenges of men’s health
The goal of Movember is to break certain taboos to raise awareness about men’s health issues, particularly the various types of male cancers. Beyond growing moustaches, the idea is primarily to raise funds to finance research and prevention programs to improve men’s health.
Here are some of the most important men’s health issues :
- Prostate cancer, one of the most common cancers in men, which is why it is essential to get screened regularly to detect problems early.
- Testicular cancer, a rare cancer, but one for which it is equally important to get screened.
- Mental health, as men are often less likely to talk about their emotional problems, which can have serious consequences over time.
- Suicide prevention, as suicide is a taboo subject that requires attention and support.
How to participate in Movember ?
There are many ways to support men’s health causes.
Here are some ideas :
- Get informed and discuss : Understand the issues surrounding men’s health to discuss them with your acquaintances, friends, family, or colleagues.
- Share resources and testimonials : Share resources and testimonials to encourage dialogue and engage in concrete discussions about men’s health topics.
- Organize or participate in awareness events : During the month of November, look for awareness events to participate in, with your company or within your community.
- Support initiatives : Do not hesitate to make donations to support local initiatives or organizations working for men’s health. (In Luxembourg, donations made to recognized public utility organizations are tax-deductible via the income tax return — starting from 120 euros).
We can contribute to improve men’s health
By participating in this movement, we can make a difference, open the dialogue, break taboos, and support prevention programs and research.
Useful Links
- Official Movember website : www.movember.com
- Campaign : https://fr.movember.com/get-involved/at-work