Movember: Raising Awareness for Men's Health One Moustache at a Time

Movember, an annual event held every November, is more than just an excuse to grow quirky facial hair. It’s a global movement dedicated to raising awareness and funds for men's health issues, particularly focusing on mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer.

The idea is simple! Grow a moustache during the month of November to initiate conversations about men's health and to encourage men to act for their wellbeing.

Since its beginning in 2003, Movember has grown into a worldwide phenomenon, mobilising millions of people and generating significant impact for men’s health initiatives.

The Origins of Movember

Movember was founded in 2003 by a group of friends in Melbourne, Australia. Inspired by the "Mo-vember" trend of growing moustaches during the month of November, they decided to use the concept to raise funds for prostate cancer research. From those humble beginnings, the movement has grown into the global Movember Foundation, a leading charity committed to changing the face of men's health. Today, the foundation operates in over 20 countries, and millions of men (and women) participate by growing moustaches or supporting the cause in various ways.

Men’s Health Issues

Movember focuses on addressing four key areas of men’s health: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. These issues are often overlooked or surrounded by stigma, and Movember aims to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and support treatment and prevention initiatives. Here's an overview of each health issue:

Prostate Cancer: The second most common cancer in men worldwide, affects millions annually, emphasising the importance of early detection through regular screenings like PSA tests, as encouraged by Movember."

Testicular cancer: A highly treatable cancer affecting young men, emphasises the importance of regular self-examinations as encouraged by Movember, to ensure early detection and increase survival rates.

Mental Health: Movember addresses the critical issue of men's mental health, encouraging open conversations and seeking help, tobreak down the stigma and support those facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or more severe conditions.

Suicide Prevention: Movember addresses the pressingissue of men's suicide rates, promoting mental resilience, early intervention, and open conversations to break down the stigma and encourage men to seek help, ultimately saving lives.

How to Get Involved

Getting involved in Movember is simple and fun. Participants, known as “Mo Bros,” start the month of November clean-shaven and spend the next 30 days growing and grooming their moustaches. 

In addition to growing a moustache, participants can also take part in the “Move for Movember” challenge, which encourages people to get active and raise funds through physical activity. 

Download the Movember App

Downloadthe Movember app - Movember

Fundraising Resources

How to fundraise for Movember - Ultimate resource page for fundraising ideas -Movember

Movember Challenges

Movember - Get Involved - Industry Challenges