Movember's mission

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Each year, Men’s Health Awareness Month is notably marked by thousands of men globally growing moustaches to raise awareness and funds for men’s health in the spirit of Movember. But, beyond growing a moustache, there is so much that can be done to support this vital cause.

On average, men are dying earlier than women

Data from a report published in 2024 by the UK Parliament Committees on men’s health found that in the UK, one man in five dies before he reaches the age of 65, and more than two in five men die before the age of 75.

It also found that three quarters of premature deaths from cardiovascular disease are amongst men; that men have a 37 per cent higher risk of dying from cancer and a 67 per cent higher chance of dying from cancers that affect both men and women; and that four in five suicides are by men.

“Suicide is the biggest cause of death for men under 35 and there has been a sharp increase in the rate among men aged 35-64,” according to the report.

The challenge

The Movember charity began in 2003 and has since funded more than 1,250 men’s health projects around the world, “including challenging the status quo, shaking up men’s health research and transforming the way services reach and support men”.

Their top three focuses are on male suicide prevention, prostate cancer and cancer in men. “Men are dying on average four and a half years earlier than women, and for largely preventable reasons. A growing number of men – around 10.8 million – are facing life with prostate cancer diagnosis,” according to the Movember organisation.

“Globally, testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men. And across the world, one man dies by suicide every minute of every day, with males accounting for 69 per cent of all suicides.”

Pharmacy action

This November, pharmacy teams members can make an instrumental impact on men’s health in your pharmacy’s community. You can encourage customers to remain vigilant for the signs of prostate or testicular cancer, reminding customers of the early warning signs and encourage screening, perhaps through posters in the pharmacy, leaflets or posting on social media.

And, of course, pharmacy teams can look out for customers who may be struggling with their mental health, ensuring all customers know that the pharmacy is a safe space. It also always helps to have resources and signposting on hand in case you need to point someone in the direction of further help.