Movember November
A call to action for men’s health in Namibia
As “Movember November” approaches, it’s time to rally in support of men’s health and raise awareness around the critical health challenges affecting our fathers, brothers, and sons.One of Namibia’s most pressing men’s health issues is prostate cancer, with cases on the rise over recent years. So, here’s how you can better understand cancer among men.
• Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably. It is the most common cancer among Namibian men, particularly those over 50. Early detection through PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) screenings can significantly improve outcomes.
• Testicular cancer affects the testes and primarily occurs in younger men aged 15–40. It often presents as a painless lump in the testicle. With early diagnosis, testicular cancer is highly treatable and has high survival rates.
• Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, affecting lymph nodes, the spleen, and other parts of the immune system. The primary types are Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, with symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, and fatigue.
• Lung cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers, frequently linked to smoking but also affecting non-smokers. Early symptoms, including persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain, should be checked immediately, as early intervention is vital.
• Kaposi’s Sarcoma is a rare cancer associated with the skin, lymph nodes, and internal organs.
It is more common in individuals with weakened immune systems and presents as purple or brown skin lesions.
#BlueNamibia
This November, show your support for men’s health and those fighting cancer by joining the #BlueNamibia movement. Wear blue in solidarity and help raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer screenings and other men’s health initiatives.
On Friday, 15 November 2024, join the Cancer Association of Namibia by wearing your beard or moustache proudly, and sporting CAN’s #BlueNamibia t-shirt, cap, or something blue for #MovemberFriday.
Encourage those around you to do the same, as we stand in solidarity to protect our men from cancers threatening their lives.
The CAN Community Care Centre in Windhoek (98 John Meinert Street, Windhoek West) and CAN Erongo Centre in Swakopmund (3 Ferdinand Stich Street) will host free Men’s Health Clinics, offering PSA-Rapid Test screenings from 08:00 to 13:00 on #MovemberFriday.
Otherwise, you can support CAN by purchasing #BlueNamibia t-shirts, caps, and blue ribbons from CAN, with proceeds supporting cancer screening initiatives. You can also order blue cupcakes that are perfect for celebrating Movember Friday at home or the office. Contact Karin at 061 237740 or [email protected] to place your order.
Finally, there’s the Pupkewitz Motors Golf Day with all proceeds going towards PSA screening campaigns across Namibia.
Go blue this November!