Awareness for men too

As October turns into November, so too would my wardrobe turn from pink back into red. Not his year thought. These days every one knows that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month due to the amount of attention it gets. But it seems like many forget that November is just as important when it comes to promoting personal health and wellbeing. November is Men's Awareness Month; a time to raise awareness and start conversations about the dangers of cancer that men face. Namely the twin perils of testicular and prostate cancer.

Similar to breast cancer for women, testicular cancer no longer needs to be a leading cause of death amongst men because, through early detection, it is absolutely beatable. The men of this world just need a gentle reminder of the importance of checking themselves so that, should they develop any sinister lumps, they can quickly be identified and dealt with.

And it is for that reason that I will continue to wear pink throughout November too. As a reminder that breast cancer is far from the only danger out there and women are far from the only ones of us at risk.

Indeed, I would tend to think that men are generally more at risk. Not because they necessarily face more aggressive or nefarious cancers. No, it is because men seem to find the whole thing far more embarrassing and would rather let a bad situation fester than have their masculinity challenged by the inconvenience of something like this. Only through open and honest conversation can these sort of outdated slowly be changed.

So, regardless of whether you are man, woman or non-binary, my message is the same to all of you. Be aware of the risks that all of us face and do what you can to mitigate that risk as best you can. Just a few minutes of self-checking can mean a life time of difference for you and your loved ones. It is not something that should taboo or embarrassing to do. Neither is seeking help if you find something to be concerned about. If not for your own sake, then for the sake of your loved ones who care about, do something about it.