It seems like just yesterday when men around the world committed to growing out their mustaches in support of men’s health! In actuality, Movember became a formal initiative in 2004! In the spirit of November, we want to remind our readers why the importance of men’s health is still alive and well and to shed a spotlight on the movement as a whole.

Movember is an annual event involving the growing of mustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s suicide.

Movember officially started in 2003 as an idea between two friends. Over the next year, they’d raise thousands of dollars within their local region of Australia. Fast forward it’s an international phenomenon and has raised over 1B towards men’s health initiatives worldwide. From mental health to various forms of cancer, the movement stays focused on promoting health and wellness amongst men. 

Key Statistics

• 1 in 9 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime
• Testicular cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in young Canadian men
• In Canada, 3 out of 4 deaths by suicide are men

(credit: https://ca.movember.com/media-room/mo-stats)

To participate in Movember, start with a fresh face at the beginning of the month and “donate your face” until Nov. 30 by not shaving. You’re like a fuzzy billboard for men’s health issues. The Movember Project has donated more than 1000 programs to date.

Can’t grow a mustache? Mo Problem 😉 Many men have a hard time growing a mustache, the message is still the same. Find another way to focus on men’s health issues. Women? You can participate too! Movember has pathed the path for “no-shave November”. The money you’d typically spend on staying hairless can be donated to a men’s health cause.

For more information on Movember and how to participate click here!