Movember, which initially began in 2003 as a running gag involving the disappearance of a fashion trend, triggered an idea with a deeper sense of purpose. This charity is committed to creating awareness about some of the biggest health issues that men face worldwide. In particular, they focus on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, poor mental health and physical inactivity. Since 2003, millions have joined this movement and their efforts culminated to funding over 1000 programs and raising approximately $677 million. Let’s take a look at some statistics that drive these initiatives:
- Prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in men globally, with over 1.1 million recorded cases in 2012
- Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men, but is often forgotten due to early detection
- One man dies every minute from suicide around the world – a result of poor mental health
- Physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality in men
So how exactly does a somewhat comical, yet memorable notion like growing and grooming a moustache for a month inspire change? In the words of Adam Garone, the CEO & co-founder of the Movember Foundation, their vision is “Changing the face of men’s health”. How do they intend to change the face of men’s health one might ask? The aim is to educate the population, as well as raise funds to increase early detection, diagnosis and effective treatments. If this is a cause that you would like to support, then jump on the bandwagon! First, sign up and begin with a clean shaven face on November 1st. Then, for 30 days, grow and groom a moustache that will turn you into a living billboard for men’s health. Finally, raise funds and educate people about what you’ve learned. So grow your mo, bro.
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