14:30, 07 November 2024
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
November is Men’s Health Month and sausage and burger company, HECK! Is kicking off the month with their important campaign against testicular cancer.
Raising awareness of the critical importance of self-examination for testicular cancer, following a survey that revealed nearly 25% of men in the UK are hesitant to perform self-checks due to a lack of knowledge on how to do so correctly.
Other statistics also suggest that approximately 2,300 men in the UK are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year, making it the most common cancer among men aged 15 to 34.
The YouGov poll, commissioned by HECK! Food and conducted among over 1,000 men, found that 23% of respondents avoid checking themselves for testicular cancer because they are unsure of the proper method.
In response to this alarming statistic, HECK! Food has partnered with Cahonas, a charity dedicated to raising awareness about testicular cancer and promoting the benefits of self-checks and early detection.
Throughout Men’s Health Month this November, HECK! will temporarily rebrand its chicken sausage packs from HECK! to CHECK! The limited-edition packaging will feature QR codes that direct consumers to Cahonas’ website, where they can access vital information on how to perform self-examinations. Additionally, a portion of the sales will be donated to Cahonas.
Jamie Keeble, co-founder of HECK! and a testicular cancer survivor, emphasised the importance of awareness: “This research shows that awareness is key, which is why we’re launching our CHECK! campaign this November.
“Testicular cancer is on the rise, and men can significantly reduce their risk by knowing what to look for.”
He shared his personal experience of discovering a lump and promptly seeking medical advice, which led to his successful recovery. “Sadly, our research indicates that too many men would ignore unusual findings, and many are unsure how to check themselves properly.
“Our campaign aims to raise awareness, eliminate stigma, and encourage open discussions about this disease, so more men will feel empowered to check themselves and seek help if needed.”
The CHECK! chicken sausage packs will be available at major retailers including Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, and Waitrose throughout November. HECK! will also launch a social media campaign and collaborate with prominent influencers to promote awareness through special pack giveaways.
To further support men’s health, HECK! has created a dedicated page on their website, linking to Cahonas for additional resources.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Cahonas. This is a Scottish charity in the UK dedicated to providing medical care and support for pets in need, regardless of their owners' financial circumstances. Find out more.
Orchid. The UK's leading charity for men affected by testicular, penile, and prostate cancer. Orchid offers support services, education, awareness campaigns, and research. Learn more here.
Baggy Trousers UK. This is a survivor-led charity that raises awareness of testicular cancer signs and symptoms and provides support to those affected. Support them here.
