José had always been the “strong man” in the family. He worked long hours, rarely took breaks, and when fatigue hit, he would take a painkiller and keep going. It wasn’t until he began having trouble urinating and feeling pain in his lower back that he decided to see a doctor — and the diagnosis brought an uncomfortable truth: prostate problems.

José’s story is not an exception. Many men ignore the signs, postpone appointments, and carry the burden of a culture that associates seeking care with weakness. In November, as monuments and campaigns light up in blue, it’s time to change the narrative. Taking care of men’s health is not optional — it’s a duty to the future.

Why “Blue November” Exists — and Why It’s Still Needed

The concept of “Blue November” began with the Movember movement in Australia in 2003, when a group of friends decided to grow mustaches to draw attention to men’s health. (SciELO) Over time, it evolved into a global campaign to raise awareness about prostate cancer and other health issues that men often neglect. (Lab in the Box)

Despite progress, many barriers remain:

• Cultural taboos: many men feel shame or vulnerability when seeking medical care. (Seven Publicações)

• Misinformation: prostate cancer screening is controversial. Some research points to benefits, while others warn of “overdiagnosis” and unnecessary interventions. (SciELO)

• Resistance to self-care: unhealthy habits such as physical inactivity, alcohol use, poor diet, and neglecting mental health are common.

The Blue November campaign seeks to break down these walls and reminds us that being a man also means taking care of oneself.

Beyond Myths: What Studies Reveal

1. Prostate cancer is often silent

In most cases, it progresses slowly. Many tumors cause no symptoms until they’re advanced, which is why experts often call it a “silent disease.” (evitacancro.org)

2. The PSA test alone is not the solution

The PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test is widely used but must be interpreted carefully, considering factors like age, family history, individual variations, and other benign causes that can raise PSA levels. (SciELO) A SciELO article notes that PSA results alone have limitations and require a multidimensional approach. (SciELO)

3. Over-screening can do more harm than good

Some studies suggest that indiscriminate screening can lead to the diagnosis of tumors that would never become aggressive, resulting in unnecessary interventions, side effects, and reduced quality of life. (SciELO) This debate is well explored in the review “A not-so-blue November” on the limits of prevention. (SciELO)

4. Prevention goes beyond the prostate

Men’s health also involves:

• Cardiovascular disease

• Diabetes

• Hormonal balance

• Mental health

• Kidney, liver, and metabolic function

In other words, a men’s check-up must be comprehensive.

Tests Every Man Should Discuss with His Doctor

Rather than following a one-size-fits-all formula, it’s best to start with a personalized medical discussion. However, some tests are generally important:

• PSA + digital rectal exam (with medical advice on risks and benefits)

• Lipid profile (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides)

• Fasting glucose / HbA1c

• Kidney and liver function tests

• TSH / thyroid hormones

• ECG / cardiovascular evaluation (heart disease risk)

• Testosterone levels (in cases with hormonal deficiency signs)

• Mental health assessment (focusing only on the physical is a common mistake)

Frequency depends on age, risk factors, and family history.

Where It Really Hurts: Impacts in Real Life

• Many men report urinary discomfort (weak stream, urgency, frequent urination) but delay seeking help until symptoms worsen.

• Erectile dysfunction — often linked to metabolic or vascular conditions — is underreported due to embarrassment.

• Aggressive prostate treatments or surgeries can cause incontinence or sexual side effects — knowing the risks and benefits is crucial.

These pains are physical, emotional, and social, affecting relationships, self-esteem, and overall well-being.

How to Overcome Resistance: Practical Strategies

• Open conversations: talking with friends, colleagues, or family helps dismantle taboos.

• Book a preventive appointment: taking that first step already makes a difference.

• Find a trusted doctor: feeling safe to express fears matters.

• Continuous education: learn to recognize warning signs and demand clear information.

• Adopt healthy habits: balanced diet, regular exercise, weight control, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol.

• Care for mental health: stress, depression, and anxiety are also part of the picture.

Final Message: Caring Doesn’t Weaken — It Strengthens

After facing his diagnosis, José became an advocate for regular check-ups among his friends. He learned it the hard way: “I go to the doctor, yes — before it’s too late.”

During Blue November, the blue lights across cities symbolize something deeper: the urgency to change cultural attitudes and redefine masculinity that too often silences pain. A men’s health check-up is an act of courage, responsibility, and self-respect.

If you’re reading this, book your appointment now. Get tested. Take care of yourself. Because men deserve full, healthy lives too.