What is Movember?

What is Movember?

Movember (Mo = moustache and November) is an annual event involving the growing of moustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of men’s health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s suicide. Using the moustache as the driving symbol of the movement, the goal of Movember is to “change the face of men’s health” Let us hear from the experts at Apollo Hospital Navi Mumbai how we can manage these health issues better.

Prostate cancer is the 2^nd most common cancer in males & there is a consistent rising incidence each year. With over 1.3 million new cases getting diagnosed per year & nearly 3.5 lakh deaths per year, the key for the battle against this cancer lies in early diagnosis.

Dr Amolkumar Patil – Sr Consultant, Urology, Uro –Oncology, Kidney Transplant & Robotic Surgery explains “Guidelines recommend that all men above the age of 50 years, should get screened every year by 2 simple tests – serum prostate specific antigen(PSA) and Digital Rectal Examination(DRE) by a specialist. Further tests may be recommended by the specialists if required. The choice of treatment is based on type & stage of cancer & the overall health of the patient. Low-risk prostate cancer may not need immediate treatment, but regular follow-up is advised”

About the latest developments in treating prostate cancer, Dr Ashwin Tamhankar – Consultant Urological Oncology & Robotic Surgery says “Robotic surgery is a precise, state of art minimally invasive surgery which amalgamates the advantages of 3D vision, magnification, precision, apt ergonomics, minimal blood loss & hence painless enhanced recovery. It’s performed by a trained surgeon with the robot translating into maximal optimisation of oncological & functional outcomes”

About testicular cancer, Dr Tamhankar adds “It is a common cancer among men between 15-34 years, presents with painless lump in a testicle. Regular self-examination & awareness stand as the basic meters for early diagnosis. It’s completely cured if detected early & needs a dedicated multidisciplinary team approach”

“Society tells men that it’s simply not acceptable to have too many feelings. It expects men to be stronger and overlooks their psychological and emotional needs. We need to refrain from the statement “man up” & give equal attention to feelings of distress among men and ways to work upon them” explains Dr Rituparna Ghosh – Consultant Psychologist

Mental health symptoms in men may include:

• Anger & aggressiveness
• Irritability
• Frustration
• Substance misuse
• Trouble concentrating
• Persistent feelings of worry
• Engagement in high-risk activities
• Unusual behaviour that concerns others or gets in the way of daily life
• Self – harm thoughts

Dr Ghosh suggests ways to work on improving wellness as below:

• Exercise for 30 minutes every day
• Read often
• Take time to relax
• Take up a new hobby
• Engage in stimulating conversations
• Spend time with people whose company you enjoy
• Practice gratitude
• Acknowledge your strengths & work on your weaknesses
• Set realistic goals
• Express yourself
• Ask for help when you feel overwhelmed

Let us be a part of the Movember movement by following the recommendations by experts & help men live happier, healthier, longer lives!!