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Every November, the distinctive mustache of Movember becomes a symbol of a global awareness campaign for men’s health and particularly for prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men. The goal of Movember is not just to raise awareness, but to change a mindset that for many years kept men away from prevention and systematic screening. 

Prostate cancer is thesecond most common cause of cancer death in men worldwide. Nevertheless, when detected early, survival and cure rates are impressively high. This is why the month of November has become so important: to remind every man that information and prevention can save his life. 

What is prostate cancer?

The prostate is a small gland, about the size of a chestnut, located below the bladder and plays a role in the production of sperm. Prostate cancer occurs when the cells of the gland begin to multiply uncontrollably. 

In the early stages, the disease usually does not cause symptoms, which makes it insidious. For this very reason, preventive screening is the only way. However, when symptoms are present, they may include:

• difficulty starting or flowing urine 

• frequency, especially at night

• pain or burning when urinating

• blood in urine or semen

• pain in the back, pelvis or hips 

The above does not do not necessarily mean cancer, but they are signs that should never be ignored. 

At what ages is screening recommended?

Preventive screening is extremely important and recommended:

• from50 years and over for all men

• from 45 years in case of family history

• of40 years, when there is a high risk or genetic factors

The checkup includes asimple PSA blood test and a clinical assessment by a urologist. These are short and painless, but decisive procedures

Why do men neglect their annual checkup?

The truth is that many men avoid the doctor, either out of fear, or prejudice, or because they feel that they are “fine” and do not need to be examined. Movember aims to do exactly that: to “break” taboos, open a discussion and change habits.

The essence of the movement is not the mustache, it is the reminder that men must take care of himself, as he takes care of the people around him.

Much more than a mustache

The image of men with mustaches in November became a global trend, but the message is deeper: every man has the power to protect his health and remain present for the people who love him.

No one is “invulnerable”. Prostate cancer does not discriminate, but prevention makes a difference.

Movember’s message for everyone

November is an opportunity to pause, inform ourselves and encourage the men in our lives: father, husband, brother, partner, friend, colleague.

A simple examination can save lives. And Perhaps, this month, the mustache will become the occasion for the most important discussion of the year.