In effort to promote men’s heath, the Springfield-Greene County Health Department is introducing Movember.

Health officials are encouraging men to do at least one thing this month to improve mental or physical health.

The campaign focuses on catching cancer early, talking about things more, seeing friends more often and getting out and moving around.

You can read more with a press release from the health department below…

Like so many other things in 2020, Movember will probably look a little different this year—but men taking time to better their health is now more important than ever.

Each year the Springfield-Greene County Health Department encourages men to grow a mustache as a conversation starter and a personal commitment to their health through the month of November.

On average, men in Greene County die about five years sooner than women. Movember—a combination of the word mustache and November—uses facial hair to encourage men to be aware of and do something about some of the specific health issues that may affect them.

“The mustache is an easy, light-hearted way to start a conversation, and while they won’t be as easy to see this year behind a mask, the conversations need to continue,” said Health Department Assistant Director Jon Mooney. “We know men tend to be less likely to talk openly about their physical and mental health, but especially this year, all of us need to stay emotionally connected while we’re physically apart.”

SGCHD is encouraging men to pick one thing they can do this month to improve their health. The focus for #movembersgf is on four categories: catch cancer early, talk about it, make man time and move more. These issues are incredibly important to address, even in the midst of COVID-19.

Men are encouraged to let us know what “Mo” they are doing for their health by snapping a selfie and using #movemberSGF on social media.

This year’s topics:

Catch cancer early

According to the MENtion It educational campaign and survey by Cleveland Clinic, 48% of men have put off seeing a doctor for non-COVID-19 related health issues over the last few months. However, the American Cancer Society says regular cancer screening is still important.

About 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.  Testicular cancer is the most common cancer for men 15-34 years old. Catching these cancers in the earlier stages can help improve the success of treatment.

What you can do:

• Schedule your annual physical in November. 

• Learn how to do a self-test for testicular cancer at MovemberSGF.com. 

Talk about it

We know that men are carrying a lot of extra mental weight in the midst of COVID-19.

Navigating work, family and health is challenging during this time. It can pile up and feel overwhelming and hopeless.  Reaching out is crucial. Especially now.

What you can do:

• Talk to a trusted friend or family member about what’s bugging you. 

• Schedule an appointment with a counselor.

Make man time

It may be hard to feel connected in a year that has brought terms such as social distancing, quarantine and isolation into our regular vocabulary. While they are necessary measures in the midst of a pandemic, it is true that they can also add to higher levels of loneliness and isolation. It’s important to find ways to stay connected with the men in your life.

 What you can do:

• Set up a zoom call with your friends once a week.

• Grab a brew with your best friend. Many local breweries offer outdoor dining options to help minimize the spread of COVID-19.

Move more

Many have been inspired to get moving during the last few months and that doesn’t have to stop now.  Physical activity is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle, even small changes can help you live a longer life.

What you can do:

• Try something new, like rock climbing. 

• Take a walk on one of Springfield’s many trails listed at MovemberSGF.com. 

• Train for a 5K or marathon. Even if you’ve never run before, you can start small.