Movember is an international movement that takes place every year during the month of November, with the aim of raising awareness about men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. The name Movember is a combination of the English words moustache and November, and growing a moustache is the recognizable symbol of the campaign. This movement not only promotes health but also creates a global community that encourages men to talk about their problems and take a proactive approach to their physical and mental well-being.

Origin and development of Movember

Movember began in 2003 in Melbourne, Australia, when a group of friends, known as the “Original 30,” decided to grow moustaches in November to draw attention to men’s health. The idea was simple but powerful: the moustache became a visual prompt for conversations about topics that are often overlooked. From its humble beginnings, Movember grew into a global initiative, supported by millions of participants in more than 20 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Macedonia, and many European countries. The movement is organized by the Movember Foundation, a nonprofit organization that funds research and support programs for men’s health.

Today, Movember is much more than a moustache-growing campaign. It is a platform that brings communities together, raises funds for research, and promotes changes in how society views men’s health. Through events, fundraising, and educational campaigns, Movember has raised hundreds of millions of dollars, which have been invested in more than 1,250 men’s health projects worldwide.

Main goals of Movember

Movember focuses on three key areas of men’s health:

1.       Prostate cancer: Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among men, especially those over the age of 50. Movember promotes regular check-ups and education about early detection, which can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment.

2.       Testicular cancer: Although it is a rarer form of cancer, it primarily affects younger men (aged 15 to 35). Movember encourages men to become familiar with the symptoms and to perform regular self-examinations.

3.       Mental health and suicide prevention: Men face a higher risk of suicide compared to women, and many avoid seeking help due to stigma. Movember works to normalize conversations about mental health and provides resources for support.

In addition to these goals, Movember strives to change social norms that prevent men from talking about their problems. The campaign encourages men to be open, seek support, and lead healthier lives.

Why is Movember important?

Movember has a profound impact on men’s health and society as a whole. Here are some reasons why this movement is so significant:

1. Raising Awareness of Health Issues

Men often avoid medical check-ups or do not talk about their health problems due to cultural expectations that they should be “strong” and “independent.” This can lead to late diagnosis of serious diseases, such as prostate or testicular cancer. Movember uses the symbolism of the moustache to initiate conversations and break the stigma around these topics. Through campaigns, men are educated about the importance of regular check-ups and preventive measures.

2. Fighting the stigma around mental health

Mental health is one of the most important yet most neglected areas of men’s health. According to statistics, men are three to four times more likely to die by suicide than women. Movember works to create a safe space where men can talk about their emotions, seek help, and cope with challenges such as depression and anxiety. Programs like “Move for Movember” encourage men to be physically active, which also has a positive effect on mental health.

3. Funding research and programs

Funds raised through Movember are invested in research on prostate and testicular cancer, as well as in mental health support programs. For example, the Movember Foundation has funded projects to develop new diagnostic and treatment methods, as well as initiatives to improve access to psychological support for men.

4. Building community and solidarity

Movember creates a sense of togetherness, where men and women unite to support an important cause. Participation in the campaign—whether by growing a moustache, organizing events, or donating—connects people and generates positive energy. This solidarity is crucial for promoting change in society.

5. Promoting a healthy lifestyle

Movember encourages men to lead healthier lives, including regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and care for mental well-being. Events such as “Move for Movember” motivate participants to run, walk, or engage in other physical activities, which has a positive impact on overall health.

How does Movember work?

Movember is unique in its simplicity and creativity. Here are some of the ways the campaign works:

Growing a moustache: Men are encouraged to start November clean-shaven and grow a moustache throughout the month. This acts as a “conversation starter,” prompting discussions about men’s health.

Fundraising: Participants can create a profile on the official Movember website and collect donations from friends, family, and colleagues.

Events and activities: Local and global events, such as races, parties, and educational workshops, are organized to draw attention to the cause.

Education: Movember provides resources and information on men’s health, including advice on prevention, self-examinations, and coping with mental health challenges.

How to get Involved in Movember?

Taking part in Movember is easy and can make a big difference. Here are a few ways to get involved:

1.       Grow a moustache: Start November with a clean-shaven face and grow a moustache. Share your story on social media using the hashtag #Movember to inspire others.

2.       Join “Move for Movember”: Set a goal to be physically active, for example, walking or running 60 kilometers during the month (in honor of the 60 men who die by suicide every hour).

3.       Donate or fundraise: Register at movember.com and collect donations to support the foundation’s programs.

4.       Educate yourself and others: Learn about men’s health and share the information with your family, friends, and colleagues.

5.       Organize an event: Host a local event, such as a party or sports activity, to support the cause.

The impact of Movember

Since its founding, Movember has made significant changes in men’s health. Some of the key achievements include:

Funding more than 1,250 men’s health projects, including research into new treatments and diagnostic methods.

Raising awareness about the importance of early cancer detection, saving countless lives.

Creating mental health support programs, such as initiatives that train men to talk about their emotions.

Building a global community that connects men and women in the fight for better health.

Movember is much more than a moustache-growing campaign—it is a movement that saves lives, breaks stigmas, and creates positive change in society. By participating in Movember, everyone can contribute to improving men’s health, whether by growing a moustache, raising funds, or simply spreading awareness. This November, join the movement and be part of the change that makes the world a better place.

Planned activities of the Institute of public health for observing “Movember”

This year, the Institute of public health plans to mark the month with various activities each week of November. Specifically, the Institute will organize weekly activities related to different aspects of men’s health, with the aim of raising broader awareness of all the issues men face throughout their lives, rather than focusing solely on prostate cancer, as is often the case worldwide. In addition to the most common diseases affecting men, the activities will address men’s mental health, physical activity, proper nutrition, and the societal pressures placed on men.