A big part of the Movember movement, which occurs every November, is bringing men’s health issues, such as prostate and testicular cancer, to light. Because they aren’t often discussed, many men may not be very knowledgeable about them. Below are some important facts that all men should be aware of regarding prostate and testicular cancer.
Nearly 10 million men around the world have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, making it the second most common cancer in men.
Some men may experience changes in urination or sexual function that could indicate prostate cancer. However, not everyone experiences symptoms. Signs of prostate cancer are often first detected during a routine check-up.
Early detection of prostate cancer can mean the difference between life and death. Chances increase with age, but it does not only affect older men. It’s suggested that men get tested at 50. Men who are African American, and those with a family history, are more than twice as likely to get prostate cancer and should consider being tested sooner.
While testicular cancer is relatively rare, it is the most common cancer in young men between the ages of 15 and 35, striking many during their prime.
The best thing men can do to catch testicular cancer early on is to check their bodies monthly. If something doesn’t seem right, like a change in size or shape, a new lump, or pain to the touch, they should make an appointment to see a doctor right away.
Men with a family history of testicular cancer, or those who had undescended testes at birth, are at a higher risk, as well as people who’ve previously been diagnosed with testicular cancer.
There are many different treatment options available, but as with all forms of cancer, early detection, diagnosis and treatment provide the best chance for a full recovery. The Movember Foundation wants to ensure that no man goes through prostate or testicular cancer without the knowledge, resources and community they need. This support gives them a chance to bounce back, feel stronger and go on to live happier, healthier, longer lives.
-
Movember Foundation, Prostate Cancer. Accessed October 28, 2020
-
Movember Foundation, Testicular Cancer. Accessed October 28, 2020
-
Movember Foundation, Quality of Life. Accessed October 28, 2020
Movember, a combination of the word moustache “mo” and “November,” is an annual event that involves growing moustaches during the month of November. The focus is on raising awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate and testicular cancer, poor mental health and suicide prevention.
On average, men die six years earlier than women do, often for reasons that are preventable. Men also account for 75% of all suicides worldwide.
So, what can men do to live happier and healthier lives? According to the Movember Foundation, these are the top five things men should do.
- Spend time with friends and family: Being around people who make you feel happy is good for your mental health.
- Talk more: Supporting one another by listening and being there can make a big difference. Connect with someone you suspect is going through a mental health crisis with the ALEC
- Know your risk: Is there a history of cancer in your family? If so, talk to your doctor and consider being screened sooner than later.
- Give yourself regular checks: Get to know what is normal for your body and check regularly. If you notice something that isn’t right, contact your doctor right away.
- Get moving: Add more physical activity to your day. Try simply walking or biking more.
In a culture of masculinity, it can be challenging for men to open up about their feelings or health concerns. Another roadblock is that men’s health issues are not discussed enough. Movember hopes to bring positive change by kicking off the discussion worldwide each November.
Women can help by sharing this information with the men in their lives and encouraging them to be extra hairy during the month of November.