Movember is an annual event held during the month of November, which involves the growing of moustaches to raise the awareness of men's health, in particular various types of cancer (e.g. prostate cancer). Movember word is a portmanteau of the word "mo", the Australian-English diminutive for moustache and the word "November".
Movember Foundation encourages men, nicknamed "Mo Bros" by the charity, to be aware of their family history of cancer and to adopt a healthier lifestyle. The charity aims to increase awareness and raise funds for men's health issues such as early cancer detection, diagnosis and ultimately reduction by 2030 the number of men's preventable deaths by 25%
Founded in 2003 in Melbourne, Australia, the Movember Foundation has periodically organized Movember events in various locations including Canada, Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States, Israel, South Africa, Ireland, Denmark, Singapore, Sweden, Norway, New Zealand, the Netherlands and Czech Republic.
As of 2015 Movember movement has raised more than $710 million since its foundation back in 2003, can count on more than 5 million fellows and has been ranked among the top 100 non-governmental organizations worldwide for several years.
Movember foundation financed over the past thirteen years over 1,200 projects related to men's health in the areas of prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention
Many high-profile athletes and celebrities have supported Movember Foundation over the years, including:
- Mick Fanning, Australian World Champion surfer
- Snoop Dogg, famous American hip-hop mogul and producer
- Former NHL players George Parros and Bill McCreary
- Former NFL quarterback Matt Leinart
- Former All Blacks captain and Rugby World Champion, Richie McCaw
Also well-known videogames like Football Manager 2015 and FIFA 14 Ultimate Team have featured Movember movement. In particular the former featured players growing moustaches during the month of November, while the latter featured a dedicated competition called Movember Cup.
