Movember is the global charity raising funds and awareness for men’s health. Movember was started in 2003 in Melbourne, Australia, now taking place every November and is held in 21 countries around the world. Many men and women to join the global men’s health movement.  Movember has raised $650 million and helped fund 1,000 men’s health programs. Movember was started to help men live happier, healthier and longer lives. This is done by investing in four key areas: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental illness, and physical inactivity.

How does this take place? Every Movember, men are challenged to grow, and women to support, a moustache, or make a commitment to increase physical activity and MOVE for 30 days. Both options are about taking real action for health and spark conversation, which in turn raises vital funds and awareness. People of either gender sign up at Movember.com and choose to “Grow, Give or MOVE”. Men start Movember with a clean shaven face, and grow only a moustache for the month. After signing up, participants raise awareness AND funds by sharing their campaign with their friends, family and coworkers.

Movember has been able to provide many beneficial programs and bring awareness to men’s health over the years. As more people discuss their health, more funds have been invested in research, charitable organizations, and health services that contribute to less men dying from prostate and testicular cancer. Organizations like Movember also work to improve the quality of life for men with cancer, both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease. Supporting men’s mental health is also supported by Movember. Mental health is an integral part of a healthy life. The Movember Foundation invests in programs that help men and boys stay  mentally healthy. In the US, investments are aimed at health services that will focus on community-level  prevention programs to improve mental health. Investment is also made in programs encouraging physical activity.

Why is it important to focus on men’s health? Here are some statistics:

• 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer
• Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men ages 15 to 29
• 1 in 5 will experience a mental health problem each year
• 3 out of 4 deaths by suicide are men
• Being physically active regularly can reduce risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, and lowers risk of early death by up to 30%

With this awareness being focused on men’s health has there been an improvement? Absolutely, with 99% of participants talking to someone about their health. Also, 75% became more aware of the health issues they face. This is a great improvement as many men do not talk about their health issues at all. This often results in many men not taking any action with their health and ultimately dying too young.

To show your support for the men in your life , why not get involved and check out what you can do at Movember.com. You can also check out the various awareness items at My Identity Doctor.