Facial hair is about to join the fight against cancer, following the launch of Beard150 by Cancer Council Queensland.
The campaign is looking for 150 Queensland men to join its 150-day beard-wagon in the hope of raising more than $150,000 for research into men’s cancers.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Kim Ryan called on beard-worthy men to support the campaign.
“Beard150 is a great way for men to fight back against cancer and is a great excuse for men to abandon the daily chore of being clean shaven,” Ms Ryan said.
“The campaign is a get-out-of-jail-free card from the disapproval of any partners and mothers who might ordinarily prickle at the thought of beard rash.”
About 14,500 Queensland men will be diagnosed with cancer this year.
“One in two Queensland men will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. This year alone more than 4000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, 2000 with melanoma and 1700 with bowel cancer – and sadly nearly 4800 of these men will die from the disease,” Ms Ryan said.
“We need to do more to improve survival rates and support all men affected – Beard150 is a unique fundraising event that allows us to do just that.
“Men are invited to grow their beard in any shape of length, donate to the cause directly, sponsor a loved one to grow a beard, or pledge to shave or colour their facial fur to raise vital funds for cancer research, education and patient support services.
“Beard150 gives men more muscle to talk about cancer, to prevent it, to get checked, and to support other men who are going through the battle.”
Ms Ryan said men’s health and wellbeing was an important issue for the whole community.
“While men fare well on many economic indicators, such as earnings and employment progression, in health they face poorer outcomes than women across a wide range of key indicators,” Ms Ryan said.
“Health areas of concern for men include lower life expectancy, higher levels of avoidable mortality and higher mortality from almost all common causes of death including cancer.
“Ultimately, Beard150 aims to help improve health outcomes for all Queensland men by lowering their risks of cancer and increasing their chances of survival.”
Research estimates that up to one-third of cancers and 40 per cent of deaths from cancer worldwide could be prevented through making simple lifestyle changes including quitting smoking, participating in screening programs, eating healthily, staying active and being SunSmart.
Visit Beard150.com to be a part of the stubble trouble or call 1300 65 65 85.
Cancer Council Queensland is an independent community-based charity, the achievements of which are made possible by the generosity of Queenslanders.
For more information about Cancer Council Queensland, visit cancerqld.org.au or call Cancer Council’s 13 11 20.
For more information, please contact:
Kim Ryan, Senior Media Specialist, Cancer Council Queensland
P. (07) 3634 5239 M. 0488 015 702