Minister of Health Margaret MacDiarmid has issued the following statement:

"Each November thousands of men from around the globe, including right here in British Columbia, put down the razor and let their moustaches grow for Movember. Sporting moustaches - fondly referred to as Mo's - of every style, men raise funds and awareness for men's health, specifically prostate cancer and men's mental health.

"Prostate cancer affects one in seven men. Even though British Columbia has some of the best cancer survival rates in Canada, we can always do more. Through research and education, we can change the way we target health services to men to help improve their overall health.

"This year, the Movember Foundation is expanding efforts to include men's mental health through the Canadian Male Health Network. This program was created to bring greater awareness to men's health issues, with a focus on mental-health issues which affect over 3.4 million Canadian men and boys each year.

"It is the important and valuable work of our health-care professionals involved in the research, treatment and management of men's health, including prostate cancer and other specialized health issues, that gives our province a leading-edge in being able to provide better health outcomes for men.

"The Vancouver Prostate Centre is a world leader in research and treatment of prostate cancer, while the Men's Health Initiative of BC is the first formal provincial men's health group in the country. These made-in-B.C. programs are just a few examples of how our province is working to improve the lives of men.

"Last year 246,000 Canadians participated in Movember and raised $42 million, making Canada the top fundraising nation. I encourage everyone to support these men and women, known as Mo Bros and Mo Sistas, as they work to help raise awareness of issues important to men's health and well-being."

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)