image source: popart

You may have noticed an abundance of mustaches around you. Yes, it’s that time of the year again. Movember has arrived. The rules are simple: Grow a mustache for all of November.

Many of us might assume that Movember was started by some random guy who was too lazy to shave his stache. Truth is, the Movember movement was started by a bunch of Aussies who grew out their mustaches in support of men’s health and prostate cancer.

The Movember campaign helps raise funds for organizations such as LIVESTRONG, the Prostate Cancer Foundation, & the Movember Foundation through galas, fundraisers,  and benefits. Check out the official Movember website for more ways to get involved.

The CDC states that prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men. In 2007 in the United States, 223,307 men  were diagnosed with prostate cancer and 29,093 men died from prostate cancer.

Though prostate cancer is most common in men older than 65, it is important to learn this information now and to share it with your dad, grandpa, and uncles.

As a man gets older, his risk for prostate cancer increases. No specific gene has been discovered to specifically increase or decrease risk of getting prostate cancer, but the CDC explains that certain genes inherited from parents may affect risk.  “A man with a father, brother, or son who has had prostate cancer is two to three times more likely to develop the disease himself” (CDC).

Researchers are still trying to figure out what causes prostate cancer and whether or not it can be prevented.  The National Cancer Institute emphasizes the importance of “increasing protective factors such as quitting smoking, eating a health diet, and exercising” to help prevent cancer.

According to Health.com, symptoms of prostate cancer include urinary problems, difficulty having an erection, blood in urine or semen, or deep and frequent pain in your lower back, belly, hip, or pelvis. If you have any symptoms, make sure to see your doctor right away.  It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

image source: howto.wired

So guys, if someone questions your mustache, just tell them you’re doing it for a good cause: Movember.‎ And girls, just cuz you can’t grow a stache, doesn’t mean you can’t participate. Fake mustaches, friends, fiesta. Sounds like a recipe for a ridiculously fun night. You can even get a free party pack through the Movember website to help promote the campaign!

By Alyssa Llamas