This Movember, make time for self care

Movember is here again to raise awareness of men's health issues, such as prostate and testicular cancer and suicide. Brave men worldwide pick their style and grow a moustache each November in support of this important annual event. 

The idea for Movember was conceived in 2003 by two mates who met for a quiet beer in Melbourne, Australia. From those humble beginnings, the Movember movement has grown, inspiring over 6 million people worldwide to get involved¹. Whilst it might just sound like a good way to keep your lip warm during winter, Movember supports some very serious issues regarding men’s health. 

Statistics show that men are more likely to die prematurely. In England and Wales, in 2020, 61% of all deaths under 65 years were male compared to 39% of women². Which is why it’s so important to seek support as soon as possible. 

Cancers that only affect men

Unfortunately, the number of men getting cancer is rising. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and usually develops slowly, so there may be no symptoms until the Prostate has become large enough to affect urination. This causes an increased need to pee and a feeling that your bladder has not fully emptied³.

Luckily testicular cancer is one of the most treatable cancers, with nearly all men surviving providing the cancer is diagnosed early. If you notice any changes in your testicles, it's essential to get checked out by a doctor.

Men need to acknowledge when they're struggling

Men are three times more likely to commit suicide than women². Men are expected to be strong and in control, leading to them not seeking help when they need it. Mental health issues can affect anyone; seeking help is not a sign of weakness.

How ECA can help

ECA members have exclusive access to a Bupa Private Medical Insurance (PMI) which provides support for health and wellbeing. Whether it's concerns over cancer, mental health or muscle, bone and joint conditions, ECIS PMI scheme members can call Bupa's Direct Access Services, who will triage the member and provide onward referral if necessary.

In addition, the Employee Assistance Programme is a free, confidential telephone service that supports your employees with issues impacting their mental well-being.

If you are thinking of a PMI policy for your office staff or would like ECIS to review your current arrangement, speak to the ECIS team on 0330 221 0241, or at ecis@ecins.co.uk.

[1] https://uk.movember.com/about/foundation

[2] https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/datasets/deathsregisteredinenglandandwalesseriesdrreferencetables

[3] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer/