Movember celebrates 18 years of supporting men’s health

From November 1, a men’s charity Move encourages everyone to raise money and awareness for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention.

“Each year, more than 1.4 million men around the world are diagnosed with prostate cancer, and unfortunately this number is expected to increase to 2.3 million men by 2040,” Movember officials said in a press release.

“In Canada, 39 men died from testicular cancer in 2022, that’s more than three men each month.”

With a focus on improving men’s health, Movember launched its campaign in 2007, inspiring other initiatives including the oil rig bang challenge.

Oil Rig Rumble Challenge

This will be the third year that representatives from Alberta’s oil and gas industry will attend the conference the roar of the drilling platform challenge in November.

“It’s not just about growing a mustache or raising money for Movember – it’s about starting important conversations about men’s health that will help them live healthier, longer and happier lives,” officials said.

The main goal of the 30-day campaign is to provide men with a place to discuss their physical and mental health, even at work.

“We are promoting Movember to raise awareness among our employees about the importance of mental well-being and the support we offer them,” said Secure Energy Vice President Greg Filipchuk.

“We need to focus and make sure that men and women take care of themselves.”

Movember data shows suicide is the second leading cause of death for Canadian men aged 15-44.

“Globally, we lose one man to suicide every minute of every day, and more than two out of three suicides are men.”

This year, the charity hopes to exceed the $1.06 million raised in 2023.