POLOKWANE – November is the time to create awareness of cancers that affect men, such as prostate- and testicular cancer.
This is done by means of the Movember campaign, during which men can grow their moustaches, and in so doing, become walking, talking billboards for men’s health issues.
Movember encourages men to become Mo Bros (as supporters of the campaign are affectionately known) by signing up on www.movember.com.
The rules require each Mo Bro to start 1 November clean shaven and to grow and groom a moustache for the entire month.
Through this action of growing a moustache, and encouraging others to do the same, Mo Bros prompt private and public conversation around the often ignored issues of men’s health.
Women are not excluded from this campaign, and can join at www.movember.com to become Mo Sistas.
The Movember Foundation
The Movember Foundation is an international charity that is committed to men living happier, healthier, longer lives. It started in 2003 and since then millions have joined the men’s health movement, raising money and funding over 1 000 programmes that focus on prostate- and testicular cancer, poor mental health and physical inactivity.
According to Garron Gsell, leader of Movember SA, the theme this year is Shaped by Experience.
“This carries the under-lying message that if you choose to live well and follow a healthy lifestyle, and pay attention to your health and the warning signs, you can help shape your future,” Gsell.
Early detection is key; annual health checks are vital, along with a monthly testicular self-examination which can help make one aware of one’s body and able to note any changes.
For more information or to sign up as a Mo Bro or Mo Sista visit www.movember.com or download the Movember app on your mobile device. Follow Movember on social media: @MovemberRSA on Twitter or facebook/MovemberSouthAfrica.
Look out for the Polokwane Review competition to be launched soon