The Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre fundraiser Movember will return this month in a bid to highlight cancers affecting men that are often preventable.

Men are encouraged to grow moustaches to raise awareness and funds. Statistics have shown that men die about six years before women on average.

But BCHC said: “We can all take action to live healthier, happier and longer lives.

“Every November, BCHC provides a platform for men to have a conversation about their health. During ‘Movember', men grow moustaches in most cases.

Robin Hood Football Club is to join forces with BCHC for the second year.

Steven Simons, Robin Hood vice-president, said: “As someone who has been personally touched by the devastating effects of cancer, supporting such a cause is a no-brainer.

“This event is so much fun and is a worthwhile experience for teams and individuals alike.”

A BCHC spokeswoman added: “Trucker, regent, connoisseur or wisp — no matter the shape or style of the Mo this Movember, your face can inspire donations, conversations and real change.

“More than just follicles on your face, a Mo is a ribbon — reminding the people in your life of the importance of men's health.”

Men are encouraged to “know their numbers” by attending a free men's health screening.

From the age of 50, it is wise to talk to your doctor about prostate cancer and whether men should have a PSA test should be discussed with a doctor, particularly in the over-50s age group.

Men of African or Caribbean descent or those who have a father or brother with prostate cancer should see a doctor when they hit the age of 45.

The spokeswoman said: “Know your numbers, know your risk, talk to your doctor.

“If you don't know your numbers or have not seen a doctor in a few years Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre host a free men's health screening every November.”

The screening will this year be held on Thursday, November 16, from 10am to 4pm at the Seventh-day Adventist Church Hall on King Street.

The spokeswoman added: “Use your Mo, your Move and your numbers to raise money to help Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre fund men's health initiatives from prevention through treatment, so that more men live happier, healthier and longer lives.”

Participants should start clean-shaven from yesterday and grow a moustache for 30 days,

“MoBros” can seek financial support towards the cause and all funds raised are invested in men's health prevention, detection and treatment programmes in Bermuda.

To become involved in Movember men must register to grow a Mo — or wear a bow tie for those who prefer less itch — for 30 days at movember.bm.

Movember was launched yesterday at the Robin Hood Restaurant & Pub on Hamilton's Richmond Road.

A grand finale will be held on Thursday, November 30 at 5.30pm at the Robin Hood, when men will shave off their month-long growth and prizes will be awarded for best ‘taches.

Movember events are open to the public. The spokeswoman said men should also be motivated to get active.

She added: “Try the Catlin Man on the Run 5K being held on November 12 at 9am at Warwick Academy. Women are welcome but only on the sidelines.

The spokeswoman said that men could also set an individual distance goal and walk, run, cycle, swim or row to their target to raise funds for the charity.

Cash raised will support the centre's charitable men's health programmes, which includes the radiation therapy initiative.

For more information, visit movember.bm