Movember: Raising Awareness for Men’s Health in Mauritius

Movember is a global movement dedicated to improving men’s health by highlighting three major issues: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. Every November, men grow a moustache to spark conversations, raise awareness, and encourage early detection.

In Mauritius, where non-communicable diseases continue to rise, Movember is more than a campaign; it is a necessary reminder for men to take their health seriously.

What is Movember?

Started in 2003, Movember is an international initiative that aims to:

• Increase awareness of prostate cancer

• Increase awareness of testicular cancer

• Promote men’s mental health and suicide prevention

• Encourage early screening and medical check-ups

The moustache becomes a symbol, simple, visible, and powerful.

Why Movember Matters in Mauritius

Many men in Mauritius delay check-ups, ignore symptoms, or avoid speaking about their health. As a result, cancers are often diagnosed late.

Prostate Cancer

• One of the most common cancers among Mauritian men

• A simple PSA blood test can detect it early

• When found early, treatment outcomes are significantly better

Testicular Cancer

• Primarily affects younger men aged 15–40

• Monthly self-exams help detect changes early

• Early detection = high survival rate

Men’s Mental Health

Stress, financial pressure, family responsibilities, and emotional fatigue affect many Mauritian men but most remain silent.

Movember encourages open conversations and reduces stigma around seeking help.

The Three Pillars of Movember

1. Prostate Cancer Screening

Men aged 50+ (or 45+ with a family history) should get an annual PSA test.
Early detection saves lives.

2. Testicular Self-Examination

Once a month:

• Check for lumps or hard areas

• Notice changes in shape or size

• Seek medical advice immediately if anything feels unusual

3. Mental Health Awareness

Movember promotes:

• Talking openly about stress and emotional struggles

• Supporting friends and family

• Seeking help when needed

• Breaking long-standing taboos around therapy and mental wellbeing

How to Participate in Movember in Mauritius

You don’t need a moustache to make a difference. You can:

• Encourage loved ones to get screened

• Share FMCI’s awareness posts

• Organise small awareness activities or challenges

• Support men who may be going through difficult times

• Promote conversations around health at work or at home

Every action, even small, contributes to saving lives.

FMCI’s Commitment to Men’s Health

The Falcon Memorial Cancer Institute works year-round to:

• Educate the Mauritian public on cancer prevention

• Promote early detection

• Support patients and their families

• Provide trustworthy, locally relevant health information

Movember fits directly into FMCI’s mission: inform, prevent, and protect.