Movember highlights men’s mental health and prostate checks

Movember is drawing attention to men’s mental health alongside prostate cancer screening, ORF reports, as health experts urge men to seek check-ups and support more often.

About 1,100 men in Styria are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, while Austria records more than 8,000 new cases annually. Screening is particularly important for men aged 50 and older.

Sascha Ahyai, a urologist at Graz University Hospital, said early detection can begin with a blood test to measure prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The result can help determine whether further examination, such as an MRI, is needed.

The second Long Night of Urology, on November 9, will offer examinations and consultations at participating medical practices and the hospital. Christian Scherer, head of Cancer Aid Styria, said men may see themselves as strong or invulnerable, but earlier detection can allow less intensive treatment and improve the outlook.

The month also aims to address men’s psychological health. Psychotherapist Lukas Wagner said many men feel pressure to perform in their roles as fathers, husbands, employees and members of society. Expectations around masculinity are changing, particularly among younger generations, he said, but men still seek help less often than women.