Facial hair and frank talk about men’s health

It's a sure sign that November has arrived if the men in your life are manicuring their moustaches or refusing to shave altogether. Whether it's Movember or No Shave November, facial hair has become a conversation starter for many serious men's health issues. 

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men and the second leading cause of cancer death in American men. While testicular cancer is not as common as prostate cancer, rates are on the rise. Almost half of all the cases of testicular cancer are in men between the ages of 20 and 34, although it can develop at any age.

In fact, nearly 40 percent of men's cancers are urology-related, a category that also includes kidney and bladder cancers. 

Beyond supporting this month of facial hair fun, there are things you can do to encourage prevention and wellness for the men in your life. 

A healthy lifestyle is a cornerstone of all cancer prevention. Urging men to exercise, eat a high-fiber/low-fat diet and not use tobacco are all steps in the right direction.  

Regular medical checkups are also key. Men are encouraged to talk to their doctors about important health maintenance milestones like at what age and how frequently to have:

• complete physicals
• blood pressure checks
• cancer screenings
• testicular self-exams
• baseline prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests
• colonoscopies.

Creating a routine that includes preventive health measures and healthy habits can help ensure long, high-quality lives for men. This is good for them and for the friends and family who love them.