Member for Mulgrave Curtis Pitt is calling on Far North Queensland men who reckon they have it in the moustache stakes to get ready to prove it by registering for Movember.
From the beginning of the month formerly known as November, men are encouraged to let their moustaches grow unfettered to show their support for men’s health.
“I participated in the month-long event last year and it was a great experience,” Mr Pitt said.
“There are some really creative ways to let people know you’re participating. Last year, I made up some mug shots which let people know about the cause and really gave the fundraising efforts a kick along.
“Unfortunately I promised my wife that I’d stay clean shaven this year, but I haven’t ruled out doing it again next year. I’ll be showing my support this year by making a donation.
Mr Pitt said that Men’s health is an important issue and men need to band together to raise awareness in order to improve gender-specific health outcomes.
“Movember is becoming more popular every year as a way to encourage at-risk males to address health issues such as prostate cancer and depression.
“This annual month-long phenomenon of men trying to outdo each other in the moustache department is a terrific movement.
“Money raised is donated to the Movember Foundation that distributes funds to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and beyondblue.
“Last year more than $6.3 million was distributed. The aim will be to crack $7 million mark this year.”
Mr Pitt said this is all about letting men know they’re not alone on two key men’s health matters – prostate cancer and depression.
“Prostate cancer can be cured if it’s detected early and if you are suffering from depression is help available,” Mr Pitt said.
“Men must realise they can face up to these situations resolutely and effectively.
“The key to responding to health issues such as prostate cancer or depression is early detection, which clears the way for effective treatment.”
Mr Pitt said Movember has strong support from workplaces to recreational groups, from teams to individuals and it lets men know they can talk about these health issues and take action about them.
“Men over the age of 50, and those over 40 with a family history, are at greater risk of developing prostate cancer and should have a test every year,” Mr Pitt said.
“While there are no early symptoms of depression that would prompt regular ‘screening’ it is now recognised as treatable.”
Intending ‘Mo Bros’ can register online http://au.movember.com as well as through workplace arrangements.
Recent Comments