November 2023: Men’s Health Awareness Month

November is known for many important celebrations, but we can’t forget the annual “Movember.” In 2003, the “Movember” movement originated in Melbourne, Australia, when two mates decided to bring back mustaches. The purpose of the mustaches was to use them as conversation starters about men’s health issues. As November begins, it’s time to raise awareness of men’s health.

What is “Movember”?

The name “Movember” is a combination of “mustache” and “November.” The goal of “Movember” is to use the mustaches as a symbol to start conversations about men’s health and to challenge traditional stereotypes and expectations of masculinity. The annual event takes place the whole month of November and is dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health, specifically prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. “Movember” has become a significant and widely recognized movement that aims to improve men’s health by promoting awareness, early detection, and access to support and treatment for the health issues that affect men.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. It’s a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate, a small gland located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system and is responsible for producing a portion of the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. It’s not clear what causes prostate cancer. However, doctors know that prostate cancer occurs when cells within the prostate gland begin to grow uncontrollably, which forms a tumor. It can range from slow-growing and non-aggressive to aggressive and fast-growing. Many prostate cancers are slow-growing and may not cause serious health problems; however, some prostate cancers can be more aggressive and have the potential to spread to other parts of the body.

Symptoms

It’s important to note that early-stage prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. Make an appointment with your doctor for any persistent signs or symptoms that worry you.

Symptoms of prostate cancer may include:

• Trouble urinating
• Decreased force in the stream of urine
• Blood in the urine
• Blood in the semen
• Bone pain
• Losing weight without trying
• Erectile dysfunction

Risk Factors

Several risk factors have been identified that may increase a man’s likelihood of developing prostate cancer. It’s essential to be aware of these risk factors because they can help individuals and healthcare providers make decisions about screening and prevention; however, having one or more of these risk factors does not promise that an individual will develop prostate cancer.

Common risk factors for prostate cancer:

• Older age: Your risk of prostate cancer increases as you age. It’s most common after age 50.
• Race: For reasons not yet determined, Black people have a greater risk of prostate cancer than people of other races. In Black people, prostate cancer is also more likely to be aggressive or advanced.
• Family history: A family history of prostate cancer can significantly increase an individual’s risk. If a close relative, such as a father or brother, has had prostate cancer, the risk is higher. The risk is even greater if multiple family members are affected.
• Obesity: People who are obese may have a higher risk of prostate cancer compared with people considered to have a healthy weight, though studies have had mixed results. In obese people, the cancer is more likely to be aggressive forms.

Prevention

There are several lifestyle changes and strategies that may help reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer or slowing its progression.

Here are some prostate cancer prevention tips:

• Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fruits and vegetables contain many vitamins and nutrients that can contribute to your health.
• Healthy Foods over Supplements: No studies have shown that supplements reduce your risk of prostate cancer. Instead, choose foods rich in vitamins and minerals to maintain healthy levels of vitamins.
• Exercise Regularly: Engage in physical activity most days of the week to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: If your current weight is healthy, work to maintain it by choosing a healthy diet and exercising most days of the week. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer. Ask your doctor for help creating a plan for healthy weight loss.
• Talk to your Doctor About Increased Risk of Prostate Cancer: If you’re at very high risk of prostate cancer, your doctor may consider medications or other treatments to reduce the risk.

What is Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer is relatively rare and can happen at any age, but it happens most often between the ages of 15 and 45. It’s a type of cancer that originates in the testicles, which are part of the male reproductive system. The testicles, also known as the testes, are in the scrotum, which is the sac of skin that hangs below the penis. The testicles make sperm and the hormone testosterone. It’s not clear what causes most testicular cancers. However, doctors do know testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cells within the testicles start to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The first sign of testicular cancer often is a bump or lump on a testicle. The cancer cells can grow rather quickly and spread outside the testicle to other parts of the body. It’s highly treatable, even when it spreads to other body parts. There are different types of testicular cancer, so treatment depends on the type that you have and how far it has spread.

Symptoms

Testicular cancer can come with a variety of symptoms, so it’s essential for men to be aware of these symptoms. Make an appointment with your doctor if you detect any symptoms that last longer than two weeks. These include pain, swelling, or lumps in your testicles or groin area.

Symptoms of testicular cancer may include:

A lump or swelling in either testicle

• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
• A dull ache in the lower belly or groin
• Sudden swelling in the scrotum
• Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum
• Enlargement or tenderness of the breast tissue
• Back pain

Risk Factors

Several risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of developing testicular cancer. It’s essential to be aware of these risk factors because they can help individuals and healthcare providers make decisions about screening and prevention; however, having one or more of these risk factors does not promise that an individual will develop testicular cancer.

Common risk factors for testicular cancer:

• Age: Testicular cancer can happen at any age, but it’s most common in teens and young adults = between 15 and 45.
• Undescended Testicle (Cryptorchidism): If you have a testicle that never descended, your risk of testicular cancer is higher. The risk is increased even if you’ve had surgery to move the testicle to the scrotum.
• Family History: If cancer runs in your family, you might have an increased risk.
• Race and Ethnicity: Testicular cancer is most common in white people.

Prevention

If you get testicular cancer, there’s nothing you could have done to prevent it. However, healthcare providers recommend regular testicle self-examinations. Perform regular testicular self-examinations to become familiar with the normal size and consistency of your testicles. If you notice any changes that last longer than two weeks, such as a lump or swelling, seek medical assistance.

Men’s Mental Health

Mental health is a vital aspect of overall health and well-being. Male depression is a serious medical condition, but many men try to ignore it or refuse treatment. Depression can affect men and women differently; for example, men tend to use different coping skills. It isn’t clear as to why men and women may experience depression differently, but it likely has to do with brain chemistry, hormones, and life experiences.

Signs and Symptoms

Seeking help and addressing mental health concerns is a sign of strength, not weakness. Men, like women, can and should take steps to maintain and improve their mental health. Any of these signs or symptoms may overlap with other mental health issues or be associated with medical conditions, but professional help will get you an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Signs and symptoms of depression may include:

• Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty
• Feeling extremely tired
• Have difficulty sleeping or sleep too much
• Not get pleasure from activities usually enjoyed
• Escapist behavior, such as excessive work, substance abuse, or risky behaviors to cope with emotional pain
• Physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive problems, and pain
• Problems with alcohol or drug use
• Controlling, violent, or abusive behavior
• Irritability or inappropriate anger
• Risky behavior, such as reckless driving

Undiagnosed Male Depression

Male depression often goes undiagnosed for several reasons, including social and cultural factors, as well as the way men express and cope with their mental health. It’s essential to raise awareness about mental health, reduce the stigma surrounding men seeking help, and encourage open and supportive discussions about emotions.

Key reasons why male depression is frequently undiagnosed:

• Lack of Awareness: You may not recognize the signs of depression in yourself because feeling sad isn’t always the primary symptom for men. For example, headaches, digestive problems, tiredness, irritability, or long-term pain can sometimes indicate depression. Feeling isolated and seeking distraction to avoid dealing with feelings or relationships can also mean depression.
• Downplaying signs and symptoms: You may not recognize how much your symptoms affect you, or you may not want to admit to yourself or to anyone else that you’re depressed. But ignoring or masking your depression will just make the negative emotions worse.
• Stigma and Stereotypes: Society often promotes traditional masculine ideals that discourage men from showing vulnerability or discussing emotional issues. Men may fear being seen as weak or unmanly if they admit they are depressed.
• Reluctance to Seek Help: Men may be less likely to seek help for mental health issues. They may perceive asking for help as a sign of weakness and may try to handle their problems on their own.

Male Suicide

Although women attempt suicide, men are more likely to commit suicide. That’s because men:

• Show fewer warning signs, such as talking about suicide
• Act more impulsively on suicidal thoughts
• Use methods that are more likely to cause death, such as guns

If you have Suicidal Thoughts

If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, get help right now:

• Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
• Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat. Services are free and confidential.

If you’re having suicidal thoughts, but you aren’t immediately thinking of hurting yourself, seek help right now, even though it may be hard to talk about your feelings:

• Reach out to a loved one, close friend, or anyone you know.
• Contact a minister, spiritual leader, or someone in your faith community.
• Consider joining a men’s health group that deals with depression.
• Call a suicide crisis center hotline.
• Make an appointment with your doctor, other primary care provider, or mental health professional.

Male Depression and Coping Skills

Coping with depression is a challenge, but it’s important for men to develop practical coping skills to manage their mental health. Treatment, including psychotherapy, with a mental health professional can help you learn healthy ways to cope. It’s important to remember that overcoming depression can take time and may involve setbacks along the way. Patience and persistence are key. Many effective treatments are available for depression, so don’t try to tough out male depression on your own.

Here are some coping strategies that can be particularly helpful for men dealing with depression:

• Goals: Break down your goals into smaller, achievable steps. This can help you build a sense of accomplishment and reduce feelings of hopelessness.
• Build a Support Network: Establish and maintain strong social connections. Seek emotional support from family, friends, peers, or anyone you know. Share your feelings with people you trust.
• Stress Management: Learn stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation. These methods can help relieve your anxiety and stress.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise has been shown to impact mood and mental health positively. Engaging in physical activities you enjoy can help reduce depression symptoms.
• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can positively affect mood and overall well-being.
• Decisions: Delay making important decisions until your depression symptoms improve.
• Sleep Hygiene: Maintain a regular sleep schedule and practice good sleep hygiene. Quality sleep is essential for mental health.
• Limit Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Reduce or eliminate the use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances, as they can worsen depression symptoms.
• Stay Connected: Avoid social isolation by maintaining your social connections, even when you may not like it. Isolation can worsen your depression.
• Mindful Self-Care: Make self-care a priority. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend in a similar situation. Set aside time for relaxation, self-reflection, and activities that bring you joy.

Conclusion

“Movember,” also known as men’s health awareness month, is a global movement taking place right now in November. It’s an opportunity to encourage men to take charge of their well-being, engage in preventive health practices, and raise awareness about conditions like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. It’s a great time for men to reflect on their health, schedule necessary check-ups, and converse about well-being. It’s time to grow those mustaches, positively impact men’s health, and take action to live healthier, happier lives.