No-Shave November is a movement designed to encourage conversation and action around health issues that disproportionately affect men — like prostate cancer, testicular cancer, heart disease, and mental health challenges. The campaign also encourages participants to donate the money they’d normally spend on shaving to support cancer prevention, education, and research.
While facial hair is the symbol, the real focus is helping men take control of their health and change behaviors that may be putting them at risk.
Men’s Health by the Numbers
Men in rural America face greater health risks than urban peers, with life expectancy about 2.5 years shorter. In 2019, rural heart disease deaths, the leading cause of death for men, were 189 per 100,000 compared to 156 in urban areas; cancer deaths, the second leading cause of death, were 164 vs. 143 per 100,000. Overall, men are more likely to die from preventable causes, with nearly 60% not meeting physical activity guidelines and over 40% living with high blood pressure. Heart disease claims 1 in 4 male lives, cancer 1 in 5. Many of these outcomes can be improved through early detection and healthy habits. No-Shave November is a reminder for rural men to get screened and take charge of their health.
Spotlight on Prostate and
Testicular Cancer
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, and the risk increases with age. Most cases are diagnosed in men over 65. While it often grows slowly, early-stage prostate cancer may not cause symptoms, which is why screening matters.
The decision to undergo a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test should be made after a conversation with a healthcare provider. Most experts recommend that men begin discussing PSA testing around age 50 — or earlier if they have a family history or are in a higher-risk group, such as African American men.
Testicular Cancer
While less common, testicular cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among young men ages 15 to 35. The good news: it’s highly treatable, especially when detected early.
Men are encouraged to perform regular testicular self-exams and to seek care if they notice any changes — such as a lump, swelling, or a feeling of heaviness. Catching testicular cancer early gives the best chance of a cure with minimal treatment.
Mental Health: Breaking the Silence
Mental health is one of the most overlooked aspects of men’s health — and one of the most urgent. Men are significantly less likely than women to seek help for depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders. Yet men are at greater risk of suicide, especially in middle age and older adulthood.
Untreated mental health conditions can also affect physical health. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can raise blood pressure, increase inflammation, and elevate the risk of heart disease.
Talking about mental health — and seeking support when needed — is not a sign of weakness. It’s a key part of living a longer, healthier life.
The Heart of the Matter: Cardiovascular Health
Heart disease remains the number one killer of men in the U.S. Major risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Many of these conditions can be managed — or even reversed — through simple changes like regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking, and managing stress. But the first step is awareness. Knowing your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels can help you and your provider develop a plan to reduce your risk.
Men are encouraged to have regular checkups and begin discussing cardiovascular health as early as their 40s — or sooner if there’s a family history of heart disease.
Beards with a Purpose
Growing a beard may seem like a small gesture, but it’s meant to start a bigger conversation. No-Shave November is about:
⊲ Raising awareness of the unique health issues men face
⊲ Encouraging routine checkups and cancer screenings
⊲ Normalizing conversations around mental health
⊲ Supporting research and organizations dedicated to men’s health
Whether you’re participating yourself or supporting someone who is, the goal is to break the silence and change habits that lead to late diagnoses and preventable illness.
What You Can Do This November
- Grow Your Beard (or Cheer Someone On) — Let your facial hair grow to spark conversation and support the cause.
- Schedule a Health Check — If it’s been a while, book an appointment with your doctor. Even a routine visit can catch early signs of disease.
- Talk Openly — Share what you know. Encourage the men in your life to be proactive about their health.
- Support Mental Health — Reach out to friends and loved ones. Check in. Ask questions. Listen.
- Donate or Volunteer — Consider supporting organizations focused on men’s cancer research, mental health, and preventive care.
More Than a Beard
No-Shave November isn’t just about growing facial hair — it’s about growing awareness. It’s a powerful opportunity to change the narrative around men’s health, one conversation at a time.
So go ahead — grow the beard. But more importantly, grow the effort to help men live longer, healthier, and more informed lives.