Each November, many men partake in growing a moustache to raise awareness for the often-overlooked health challenges they face. It’s a chance to take part in something memorable and fun, as well as remind others that early conversations about health can change, and even save, lives.
Why Movember Still Matters
Although our medical care has advanced in recent years, men continue to face disproportionate risks when it comes to physical and mental health. Prostate cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men, and testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men. According to statistics from Samaritans 2024 [1], men are also significantly more likely to die by suicide, with the rate being 17.1 per 100,000, compared to females’ rate of 5.6 per 100,000. The cause of suicide is often due to mental health issues they haven’t addressed and spoken about.
These issues persist not only because of medical factors but because men are, statistically, less likely to seek help, less likely to open up, and less likely to attend routine check-ups [2]. Movember aims to shift this narrative.
More Than a Moustache
The moustaches may get the attention, but the heart of Movember lies in driving meaningful action. The movement supports projects around:
- Mental health support and suicide prevention
- Prostate cancer research, screening, and support services
- Testicular cancer awareness and treatment pathways
- Community initiatives that encourage men to talk openly about wellbeing
The Power of Starting a Conversation
One of Movember’s most impactful messages is simple: check in on the men in your life. Whether it’s a colleague, friend, or family member, a conversation can create the space someone needs to talk about what’s really going on.
Law firms, including those of us at Lamb Brooks, often work with individuals and families during some of life’s most stressful moments. Supporting wider community health awareness is part of our commitment to wellbeing, for our clients, our team, and the wider community.
[1] The Samaritans, 2024 Latest suicide data | Suicide facts and figures | Samaritans
[2] Nuffield Health, 2024 5 reasons men avoid going to the doctor | Nuffield Health