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Movember wasn’t born in a boardroom or a doctor’s office. It started as a casual challenge between two friends in Melbourne, Australia, back in 2003. Travis Garone and Luke Slattery were catching up over drinks when they started reminiscing about moustaches and how they’d fallen out of style.
They wondered: what if they could bring them back? And more importantly, what if this could actually mean something?
Inspired by a friend’s mother who was fundraising for breast cancer, Garone and Slattery decided to repurpose their moustache idea to support men’s health. They knew that men’s health issues, especially prostate cancer, often went undiscussed.
With a blend of humour and purpose, they launched the first “Movember,” coining the name by combining “moustache” and “November.” That first year, they convinced 30 friends to grow out their facial hair, and the “Mo Bros” were born.
By 2004, they realised they were onto something big. They formalised the movement and raised their first official funds, which went to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. From there, Movember took off faster than they could have imagined.
Raising Awareness for Men’s Health Each November, Movember raises awareness about three critical areas of men’s health: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health, including suicide prevention. Men often skip health check-ups and are less likely to open up about health concerns, which can have serious consequences.
Terry shared, “ We cannot change the face of men’s health without thinking about those men that are most at risk.”
“Movember has been on a journey… to co-create and co-deliver more inclusive programs and campaigns. ”
Movember brings these topics into focus, encouraging men to have honest conversations about their health. The moustache-growing challenge offers men a visible way to show their commitment and inspire others to talk openly about these vital issues.
TikTok user shaves off their beard in support of Movember’s men’s health campaign
Prostate Cancer: Not Just an “Old Man’s Issue” Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, but it rarely gets the attention it deserves. Many men don’t realise that prostate cancer can affect them at any age, not just in their later years. Movember aims to change that by bringing prostate cancer awareness into everyday conversation and encouraging men to take preventive action.
Through Movember’s platform, men are encouraged to understand their family history, recognise potential symptoms, and talk to their doctors about regular screenings. This proactive approach saves lives, especially when it comes to early detection and timely treatment options.
The moustache becomes a powerful reminder that prostate cancer awareness matters year-round, not just in November.
Watch also: De-risking Prostate Cancer | Dr Malwinder (Oncologist)
Testicular Cancer: Starting the Conversation for Young Men’s Health Unlike other cancers, testicular cancer primarily impacts younger men, often between 15 and 35. Yet, it remains a topic most men don’t discuss openly. Movember changes this by bringing attention to testicular cancer and encouraging men to take control of their health.
Movember promotes regular self-exams, which are key for detecting testicular cancer early. Early detection can make all the difference, yet it requires awareness and openness that men don’t always feel comfortable with.
By making this issue part of Movember, the campaign helps normalise these discussions, empowering men to take action on their health.
Read more: How to Maintain Good Testicular Health
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Focus Mental health issues and suicide disproportionately affect men, yet stigma often keeps these struggles hidden. Movember works to change that by creating a platform for men to discuss mental health openly and seek support without shame.
Studies show that men are often less likely to reach out for help, as societal expectations around masculinity can make it tough to admit to struggling. Movember challenges these barriers, encouraging men to recognise that seeking support is a strength, not a weakness.
By fostering mental health awareness and focusing on suicide prevention, Movember aims to reduce stigma, provide resources, and encourage men to have honest conversations. Through connection and open dialogue, Movember helps men realise they don’t have to face their battles alone.
Explore now: Guide on Maintaining Mental Health for Men
How One Month Sparks Year-Round Change Since its humble beginnings, Movember has grown into a global movement , funding over 1,320 projects for men’s health. The impact is undeniable: Movember has raised awareness and millions in funding for prostate and testicular cancer research, mental health programmes, and suicide prevention efforts.
But Movember’s true power lies in sparking conversations and making men’s health issues visible in everyday life. Each November, millions join to make a difference, proving that even a small change—like growing a moustache—can start a meaningful movement that lasts well beyond the month.
Terry expressed her hopes for the future, saying, “ The power for change sits with our community—we want to work harder to partner with them to give them a voice and be the change they want to see. ”
