Each November, men around the world grow out their mustaches in solidarity with Movember, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness of critical men's health issues. These include prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. While men’s health may not always be a popular topic of discussion, it’s crucial to shine a spotlight on the physical and mental health challenges that men face—and more importantly, how we can support men in taking charge of their well-being.
Men’s Health Awareness – Why Movember Matters
Men face significant health risks that often go unaddressed due to societal norms, stigma, or lack of awareness. Movember aims to break down those barriers by encouraging men to prioritize their health, seek regular medical checkups, and engage in conversations about their mental and physical well-being.
Some of the key issues Movember addresses include:
- Prostate Cancer – According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, after skin cancer.
- Testicular Cancer – While testicular cancer is less common than prostate cancer, it predominantly affects younger men, typically between the ages of 15 and 35. The good news is that testicular cancer is highly treatable, especially when caught early.
- Mental Health and Suicide Prevention – Men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health challenges. This contributes to the alarming statistic that globally, men die by suicide 3.5 times more often than women. Mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse often go undiagnosed or untreated in men, leading to devastating consequences.
Partners Play a Critical Role
The support of a partner can be invaluable in encouraging men to take their health seriously. Whether it's scheduling doctor’s appointments, helping them create a healthier lifestyle, or simply offering emotional support, partners can help men overcome the barriers that keep them from focusing on their well-being.
Here are some practical ways partners can help men stay on top of their health:
Encourage Regular Checkups and Screenings
Many men avoid going to the doctor unless they feel something is seriously wrong, which can lead to missed opportunities for early detection of issues like prostate or testicular cancer. Partners can encourage their loved ones to get routine physical exams and cancer screenings, especially if there is a family history of illness.
Prostate Cancer Screening
The American Cancer Society recommends that men aged 50 and older should discuss prostate cancer screening with their doctor. Men at higher risk, such as those with a family history or African-American men, should consider screening starting at age 45 .
Testicular Cancer Self-Exams
Regular self-exams can help men detect any unusual lumps or changes in their testicles. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
Promote Healthy Habits
Partners can also help men make lifestyle changes that reduce their risk of chronic diseases. This includes encouraging a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption. Sometimes, these changes are easier to make when done together.
- Regular exercise reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even some cancers. Try finding activities you can do together, like hiking, biking, or joining a fitness class.
- A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports overall health and can help manage weight and prevent chronic diseases. Learn more about the closest thing to a one-size fits all diet, The Mediterranean Diet.
Be a Mental Health Advocate
Mental health is a vital part of men’s health, but it can be difficult for men to talk about their struggles. Partners can help by creating an open, judgment-free space for conversations about mental health. Encouraging men to seek professional help when needed is also crucial.
Check-in with your partner regularly. Ask how they’re really feeling, beyond the standard "I’m fine." Let them know that seeking therapy or counseling isn’t a sign of weakness but a tool for wellness.
Help remove the stigma. Many men feel pressure to “tough it out” or “man up” when it comes to emotional or mental health struggles. Remind them that mental health care is just as important as physical health care.
Start the Conversation
Partners have a unique ability to support men in their health journeys. Whether it's encouraging a doctor’s visit, suggesting healthier lifestyle choices, or being a listening ear, your support can make a significant difference in your loved one’s well-being.
Movember is a reminder that taking care of men’s health is essential—and it’s never too late to start. By working together and staying proactive, we can help ensure that the men in our lives lead long, healthy, and happy lives.
If you’re concerned about your health or your partner’s health, talk to a healthcare provider today. Preventative care, regular checkups, and an open dialogue about mental and physical health can save lives.