In November, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a powerful campaign through its WhatsApp channel to mark Men’s Health Month, also known as Movember. The initiative encouraged men to grow mustaches as a way to spark conversations about critical health issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. The WHO’s message extended an inclusive call for women to support the men in their lives in taking actionable steps toward better health. While this message was clear, a closer look at the media landscape during the month revealed a concerning oversight of men’s health issues amidst other global events, such as World Diabetes Day and Anti-Microbial Resistance Awareness Week. Despite the significance of Men’s Health Month, the awareness it aimed to raise seemed somewhat sidelined.
The primary goal of Men’s Health Month is to promote open discussions about male health and encourage men to seek support for a range of health concerns. Issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health challenges, and suicide prevention are the focus, but the problem goes deeper. Men are disproportionately affected by heart disease, cancer, and mental health struggles, yet many persist in adhering to the “stiff upper lip” mentality, often opting to endure symptoms rather than seek necessary help. This cultural norm is concerning, given that men worldwide die an average of 4.5 years earlier than women, with a staggering 86% of these deaths attributed to non-communicable diseases and injuries, according to a 2019 WHO study.
Prostate cancer remains a leading health issue for men globally, with over 1.4 million cases diagnosed in 2020 alone. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) stands at 30.7 cases per 100,000 males. In Nigeria, prostate cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer among men, accounting for 11–15.1% of all male cancers. Between 2009 and 2016, data from 15 Nigerian cancer registries documented 4,091 cases, with a distressing 80% diagnosed at a stage when treatment options were limited. This highlights a critical gap in healthcare investment and early detection.
Mental health is another area where societal expectations place a heavy burden on men. In Nigeria alone, an estimated 40 to 60 million people suffer from mental health disorders, with the country ranking fifth globally in suicide rates, at approximately 15,000 cases per 100,000 people. For men, the pressure to meet financial and family obligations often exacerbates mental health issues. Those who struggle with these pressures are sometimes stigmatized as “irresponsible,” further contributing to feelings of isolation and depression.
Heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke continue to be leading causes of death for men, compounded by lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, and high-risk occupational hazards. Yet despite these risks, many men underutilize healthcare services and engage in risky behaviors, including neglecting preventive care. This pattern is evident in many countries, underscoring the need for campaigns like Men’s Health Month to challenge harmful societal norms and encourage men to take control of their health.
In conclusion, Men’s Health Month serves as a vital opportunity to address the pressing health challenges facing men worldwide. By continuing to raise awareness and break down the stigma surrounding men’s health issues, we can create a culture that encourages early intervention, better healthcare access, and improved quality of life for men everywhere.
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