Movember Meets CiMAS iGo: Run for Men's Health

By Hamu Madzedze

Online Health Editor-Zimbabwe

Cimas Health Group CEO, Mr Vuli Ndlovu says the organisations iGo Half-Marathon set for the 17th and 24th of November in Harare and Bulawayo aims to promote wellness and raise awareness about men's health issues aligning with Movember initiatives.

Movember is a global movement that encourages men to grow a moustache (MO) during November to raise awareness and funds for men's health issues and has funded over 1,200 men's health projects worldwide focusing on Cancer research and treatment, mental health support ,suicide prevention and men's health education.

Mr Ndlovu said by participating in the half-marathon individuals can contribute to a noble cause,promoting men's health awareness and supporting the fight against cancer.

He added that the event encourages physical fitness and empowers men to prioritise their health and is open to the public, including runners,health enthusiasts and supporters.

"All proceeds will be donated to the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe as part of our corporate social responsibility'' he said.

The group's CEO highlighted that they are expecting this year's edition of the marathon to be bigger and better than last year where 1,422 athletes participated in different races.

"Men face health issues such as prostate cancer a disease which is affecting millions of men globally, testicular cancer,mental health challenges including depression and anxiety ,hypertension, cardiovascular disease and diabetes among others and by hosting this event as part of our Movember initiatives ,Cimas Health Group promotes physical activity and fosters a culture where men feel empowered to address their health concerns"said Mr Ndlovu.

He pointed out that the health group encourages men to make health a priority by undergoing regular health check-ups and prostate cancer screening.

"We urge citizens,governmental agencies,private businesses,non-profit organisations and interested groups to join us in promoting awareness on prostate cancer prevention and treatment in Zimbabwe"he added.

Mr Ndlovu said traditionally ,men have been hesitant to seek medical help or openly discuss health issues due to stigma and misconceptions about weakness however breaking this stigma during Movember is crucial as open communication is vital for wellbeing.

"By raising awareness ,we can reduce stigma and ensure individuals with health conditions receive necessary care and support" Mr Ndlovu emphasised.

Movember started in 2003 in Australia with 30 participants and today its a global movement with millions of participants.