In 2020, we watched the world change dramatically. But one thing remained the same: our mission to stop men dying too young.
With the funds raised by our Mo Bros and Mo Sisters, we accelerated our work to help men live happier, healthier and longer lives.
From uniting the world’s brightest minds and funding ground-breaking research, to launching our own programs designed with men in mind, here’s a look at our top project highlights of 2020.
Increasing diversity in research and resources for men with prostate cancer
Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than white men. To address this, Movember has teamed up with three prostate cancer organisations in the US to create Forward Momentum. Forward Momentum aims to address racial disparities, increase diversity in research and develop new digital resources for Black men with prostate cancer. These new digital resources will be delivered through Movember's dedicated prostate cancer website, True North. Tell me more.
A $3.54m AUD investment in emerging mental health programs
As we’ve navigated the year’s challenges, we’ve seen people all over the world adapt to new ways of communicating and innovative ways of staying connected – and it’s been pretty damn inspiring. It’s paved the way for Movember’s new Social Connections Challenge– a search for fresh and exciting digital ideas that address social isolation. We've also teamed up with our friends at The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride to launch $1.15 AUD million in ideas specifically for motorcycle riders.
A prostate cancer drug breakthrough
At Movember, we love changing the game. This year, we have helped do that for men with advance prostate cancer. Olaparib, a precision medicine that has been proven to extend survival for some men with advanced prostate cancer, was given Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. The breakthrough is the culmination of a decade of research involving collaboration between scientific teams around the world and supported by funding from Movember. Tell me more.
An online tool to help you have tough conversations with men
It's never been more important to support and be there for each other but sometimes it can be hard to know what to say. That’s where our new tool, Movember Conversations, comes in. It’s an interactive tool that lets you experiment and practise questions and responses, giving you the skills and confidence to approach difficult conversations. Check it out at conversations.movember.com.
A new type of scan improving accuracy in prostate cancer treatment
Through a Movember-funded study, scientists have developed a new scan that helps doctors understand whether a man’s prostate cancer has spread. Results of the proPSMA study have shown that PSMA scans are more accurate than conventional CT/bone scans and that they should be routinely used in those with high-risk disease. Tell me more.
Our new parenting program for dads
Dads are a major part of many families but represent only 20% of people who participate in parenting programs. We wanted to see this change, so we created Family Man – a new parenting program built with dads in mind. By equipping men with the right parenting tools, especially in tough times, we’re aiming to help men live happier and healthier lives. Making "family” Dads’ new favourite F-word. Take a look at familyman.movember.com.
A new radiotherapy treatment for men with advanced prostate cancer
This year, we reached the end of a trial investigating the benefits of a unique radiotherapy treatment for men with advanced prostate cancer called Lu-PSMA. The interim results of the trial showed that Lu-PSMA is more effective than standard chemotherapy for men with advanced prostate cancer. Thanks to the generosity of people like you, Movember was able to co-fund the trial. Tell me more.
Helping us learn more about gendered mental health care
The number of men seeking out mental health support is increasing, but the suicide rate remains the same. That’s why this year, we commissioned an in-depth study of mental health professionals focusing on men’s mental health treatment. With the findings, we’re working to build a one-of-a-kind training program to help mental health professionals deliver more male-focused, engaging and effective care for the men that visit them.
A digital destination for men on a testicular cancer journey
In 2020, we continued to develop True North Testicular Cancer - our online tool with information, tools and resources for men who are facing a diagnosis of testicular cancer, along with their families, mates and loved ones. The tool is designed with men in mind. It provides information in a language that men understand and is delivered in a way that engages with them. Men in Australia are even able connect up with someone who has been through the cancer experience already and can help guide you through the ups and downs. We are looking forward to seeing this feature of the website available in Canada, the UK and the US in the coming months. For more, head over to testicular.movemberhealth.org.
Our program helping to improve the mental fitness of young athletes through community sport
Breaking the Ice is a mental fitness program for young boys who play hockey, their parents and coaches.With workshops for athletes, parents and coaches, Breaking the Ice helps youth and their support network to promote mental health, resilience and well-being.
From 30 Mo Bros in 2003 to a global community over six million strong. Work like this is only possible because of our legendary fundraisers and donors. Your enthusiasm fuels our fire. Your support changes lives. Join us by signing up or donating today.