It’s April, and that means it's Testicular Cancer Awareness Month! Movember, the leading charity for men’s health, is rallying men everywhere to take a hands-on approach to their well-being with its eye-catching ‘Know Thy Nuts’ campaign. The initiative serves as a crucial reminder that testicular cancer is the most common cancer affecting young men.

Despite the prevalence of this disease, awareness among Canadian young men is alarmingly low. A recent survey conducted by Movember revealed that 74% of young men are unaware that they are at risk of this disease. Here are some shocking statistics: - **75%** of young Canadian men do not know that testicular cancer is the most common cancer affecting those aged 15-40. - Only **22%** feel confident in checking their testicles for irregularities, and a surprising **25%** admitted they’ve never performed a self-exam. - While **70%** said they would consult a doctor if they noticed something unusual, only **24%** would share their concerns with a partner, and a mere **18%** would confide in a family member. - Nearly **1 in 4** men indicated they would avoid medical help unless they experienced severe pain, with **35%** admitting that embarrassment would deter them from seeking treatment.

Globally, around **75,000 cases** of testicular cancer are reported each year, resulting in over **11,000 deaths** annually. The silver lining? When detected early, testicular cancer is highly treatable.

**Empower Yourself with Quick Self-Checks** The ‘Know Thy Nuts’ initiative encourages men to perform regular self-exams. Movember provides clear guidance on how to check for abnormalities and understand what is considered normal. Professor Simon Rice, Global Director of the Movember Institute of Men's Health, emphasizes the need for men to pay attention to their body: “Awareness and early detection can save lives. By getting to know their bodies, young men can act swiftly if they notice any changes.”

According to Movember’s survey, an impressive **84%** of men who visited the ‘Know Thy Nuts’ website felt more equipped to perform self-checks afterward, potentially aiding in the early detection of testicular cancer.

**Investing in Men's Health Research** Movember has been at the forefront of funding research to combat testicular and prostate cancers since 2008, contributing nearly **AUD $640 million** to biomedical projects. Their dedication has enabled them to sponsor over **25 testicular cancer projects** globally, collaborating with leading researchers and men who have experienced these diagnoses.

This April, don’t hesitate – take a few minutes to check yourself, familiarize yourself with what’s normal, and encourage your friends to do the same. Visit movember.com/KnowThyNuts to learn more and help spread the word about this critical health issue.

For anyone facing a testicular cancer diagnosis, Movember’s Nuts & Bolts hub, developed with survivors, provides invaluable support, guidance, and a sense of community.

**Transforming Men's Health One Movement at a Time** Since its inception in 2003, Movember has raised over **AUD 1.7 billion** for men’s health initiatives, significantly impacting cancer research, mental health awareness, and suicide prevention. Their mission is to create systemic change in healthcare to better cater to the unique needs of men while fostering a society where everyone can lead a healthier life.

Join the movement today and make a difference in your life and the lives of others. Together, we can challenge stigmas, promote early detection, and ultimately save lives! For more information, visit Movember.com.