Essential information on the incidence, symptoms and importance of men’s health tests is unknown by 40% of men
Less than 40% of men over 50 have had prostate exams in the past yearand 36% of those interviewed have never undergone tests to identify nodulations and alterations in the shape and consistency of the prostate. The data comes from the pharmaceutical company Apsen, in collaboration with the sections of the Brazilian Society of Urology in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.
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This lack of knowledge and care is quite dangerous, considering this Prostate cancer is the second type of cancer that kills the most men in Brazilsecond only to non-melanoma skin cancer.
Origin of Blue November
It was because of these alarming data that the Blue November movement emerged. The campaign originated in Australia in 2003, when two friends, Luke Slattery and Travis Garone, decided to grow moustaches, combining the words “mustache” and “november” to create the term “Movember” .
Motivated by the mustache’s ability to spark debate about men’s health, the movement evolved into a foundation dedicated to fighting prostate cancer. To raise funds, a website has been created to support the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
The campaign arrived in Brazil in 2008, promoted by the Instituto Lado a Lado pela Vida, initially with the slogan “One touch, one dribble”, and in 2018 it was officially called Blue November, inspired by Pink October.
Today Blue November is an international campaign that aims to raise awareness and prevent prostate cancer by spreading information on men’s health, encouraging preventive exams and fighting prejudice.
Every year, from November 1st to 30th, governments, private entities and non-governmental organizations promote initiatives to provide information and knowledge about the disease.
This is still necessary because, according to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), it is estimated that, in 2023, around 70 thousand new cases would be diagnosed in Brazil.
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal growth of prostate cells occurs, causing a malignant tumor. It is essential to highlight that, although the majority of cases occur in men over the age of 50, genetic factors and family history can increase the risk, requiring particular attention. Early diagnosis is key, as the earlier the disease is identified, the greater the chance of effective treatment and recovery.
Men can undergo a blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and a digital rectal exam, which help in the early diagnosis of abnormalities in the prostate. The Ministry of Health recommends that, starting from the age of 50, all men undergo these tests annually or at age 45 if there is a family history of the disease.
The campaign also aims to break taboos related to men’s health by encouraging men to consult a doctor and undergo the necessary tests.
In Brazil, misconceptions about digital rectal exams still persist: 9% of men believe the procedure will interfere with their sexuality and 11% fear it will make them sexually impotent.
Recent data from the Brazilian Society of Urology (SBU) reveal that only 19% of men between 18 and 70 have undergone the exam at least once.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
