Are you seeing more facial hair in men this month? Nearly two decades ago, men’s health awareness claimed the month of November and marked it with men growing mustaches to draw attention to the cause. “Movember” is a movement to raise awareness of men’s health issues, in particular prostate and testicular cancer, as well as mental and physical health in general.

The movement recognizes that men’s health is in crisis. Men die on average five years earlier than women, for largely preventable reasons. Prostate and testicular cancers are two of these reasons, which claim the lives of men when prevention and early detection could have changed the course of the disease.

Check it out

Not all cancers are visible to the naked eye. That is why routine exams are important. Between visits to your doctor, you can do monthly self-exams. Watch out for changes in your testicles or genital tissue, including:

• Redness

• Tenderness

• Swelling or enlargement of the scrotum

• A feeling of heaviness in the genital area

• Pain or pressure in the groin, abdomen or back

If you notice something out of the ordinary, don’t panic. Not all irregularities mean cancer. But you need to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. While this may seem inconvenient to you, it is not for your provider. They are there just for you and want to help you navigate your health.

Your provider will assess you and may tell you not to worry, or they may order a simple test such as an ultrasound, blood test, or urine test. All of these can help your supplier determine the next steps.

What about mental health?

Sometimes circumstances or life experiences can make you feel overwhelmed and worried. You are not alone. Your provider can help you find the resources to sort out and design a plan, offering hope and support when you need it most. There is strength in reaching out, and it’s good to talk about the things that really matter to you.

Is it time for this check?

Did you push him away?

Movember is a great time to book your visit.

Brought to you by Salem Health Hospitals and Clinics

Salem Health West Valley Hospital and a medical group of primary and specialty clinics provide exceptional care to people living in and around Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley. West Valley Hospital has served our community for over 100 years, today with a 24 hour emergency department and a wide range of services including imaging, surgery and rehabilitation. Learn more at www.salemhealth.org/westvalley.