Growing Awareness, Growing Support: Why Men’s Health Matters More Than Ever

Last month, ‘For Men To Talk’ founder and CEO, Luke Newman, took part in Movember by growing a moustache to raise awareness of men’s health issues. Movember is a global campaign each November that encourages men to grow facial hair to spark conversations about prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s suicide. These are tough subjects, but they are vitally important — and Luke’s own experiences make this cause especially close to his heart.

Luke’s dad was diagnosed with testicular cancer, a moment that changed their family forever. Thankfully, it was caught early. After receiving radiotherapy, his dad made a full recovery. This is a powerful reminder of how life-saving early detection can be.

Then, on 11 August 2025, Luke faced his own health scare when he was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer. Although it is not the type that spreads to other parts of the body, it still required careful medical attention. The cancer was fully removed, and Luke has not needed further treatment or long-term follow-up. Even so, the diagnosis reinforced a message he shares passionately with others: pay attention to your body, notice changes, and seek help early.

As Luke explains, “Men are often slow to talk about their health — physical or mental. But talking can save lives. The sooner we speak up, the sooner we can get help, and the better our chances of recovery.”

Raising Awareness to Save Lives

‘For Men To Talk’ is best known as a men’s peer support group, helping men open up about their mental health in safe and supportive spaces. These include physical meetings, virtual sessions, walking groups, and even fishing meet-ups. The community continues to grow because the need is so great.

But the organisation also works hard to raise awareness about male cancers. Their male cancer awareness page provides clear, simple guidance on spotting symptoms of testicular, prostate, lung, bladder, and bowel cancers. Many of these conditions can be treated successfully when found early — but only if men know what to look for and feel comfortable seeking help.

A Difficult Reality: Suicide Rates Remain High

Recent figures from 2024 show the ongoing urgency of supporting men’s mental health. There were 6,190 suicides registered in England and Wales, with 4,599 of those being men. The male suicide rate remains significantly higher than the female rate, with the highest risk seen in men aged 50 to 54.

These numbers are more than statistics — they represent lives lost, families changed forever, and communities deeply affected. They also highlight why peer support groups like ‘For Men To Talk’ are so important. Sometimes, simply having a place to talk openly can make a life-saving difference.

Moving Forward Together

Luke’s Movember moustache may have been temporary, but the message behind it lasts all year: men’s health matters. Whether it’s checking for changes, booking a screening, opening up about emotions, or reaching out for support, taking action can change — and save — lives.

To learn more about male cancer awareness and how to check yourself, visit the ‘For Men To Talk’ website. And remember: talking is strength, not weakness.