Started in Melbourne, Australia in 2003, Movember strives to raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues, especially testicular and prostate cancer. In 2011, over 854,000 Mo Bros and Mo Sistas around the world participated and raised $126.3 million. Interested? The Rules are simple:

1. Begin November 1st with a clean shaven face and register at Movember.com.

2. For the entire month, grow and groom your moustache.

3. There is no joining of the mo to your side burns (that’s a beard).

4. There is no joining of the handlebars to your chin (that’s a goatee).

5. Each Mo Bro must conduct himself as a gentleman.

To register and for more information visit Movember. Watch this video for some excellent advice from Parks and Recreation’s Nick Offerman on growing your moustache…

“Movember” started in Melbourne, Australia as a month-long effort to bring awareness about men’s health risks and work to change attitudes men have about their health.  On November 1st,  men worldwide register with a clean-shaven face and, for the rest of the month – as their moustaches grow – raise funds as “Mo Bros” with support from the women in their lives, “Mo Sistas.”  Their sprouting whiskers serve as a conversation starter to raise awareness of male health issues and to support prostate and testicular cancer research.  To participate, click here.

There is a disparity in awareness and funding for male health issues for many reasons. Men are often less likely to visit health care providers or openly discuss issues especially involving their reproductive or sexual health.  Typically, they don’t go for an annual physical as many women do as part of routine health care.  Breast cancer research is openly supported by many aspects of society, from NFL players sporting pink mouth guards, sneakers or socks to pink pizza boxes!  Movember seeks to evoke social change by putting a different face on a serious issue.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in American males between the ages of 15 and 34.  It is one of the most treatable and survivable types of cancer.  When detected early, 99% of males will survive and live healthy and active lives.  Think Lance Armstrong.  Just as women have become accustomed to doing regular breast exams, males need to check themselves regularly.  To learn more about testicular cancer and see a video of how to do a self-exam click here.  One in 6 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime.  Although not as common as in females, males can get breast cancer, too.

Sexually transmitted infections are common among both young adult males and females. But there are simple lifestyle changes males can do that go a long way to help maintain a healthy body.  We all are educated about the need to exercise, eat healthy, use protection and reduce stress.  Now we just need to follow the advice we’ve been hearing all our lives!