Staff pay lip service to cause

Whether it's a handlebar, a pencil, or the chops and mo' combo, all moustaches are welcome for Movember - and a group of health professionals is challenging others to get behind the cause.

Staff at Back in Action Physiotheraphy and Carterton Medical Centre are putting up $1000 of their own cash if the community will match it, and are challenging health professionals around Wairarapa to do the same.

Movember is a month-long campaign to raise awareness of men's health, in which men are challenged to grow moustaches and raise money for research.

Back in Action physiotherapist Ryan Monastra said health professionals in particular should be getting behind the campaign.

"It's the bigger picture of what health's about, it's that we care about helping people to live longer and better," said Mr Monastra.

He took part in last year's Movember and this year has got a crew together - he has roped in four other men, collectively known as Wai Grow a Mo.

He said men are traditionally bad at reporting their health issues, have lower life expectancy and a higher risk of suicide - "it's starting to change, but there's a long way to go".

Mr Monastra said it was important to keep building knowledge of men's health, but the research couldn't happen without funding - he reckons the moustache is worth it.

Wife Maryanne will be cheering on his efforts, although she doesn't pretend to like the moustache.

"I don't like the effect but I'm supportive of the cause."

Carterton Medical Centre doctor Ian McArthur, who suffered a heart attack in April, said men's health - prevention and rehabilitation - is a prime concern for the centre.

"The hardest part is getting your head around what happened, especially when you think you're fit and healthy."

Back in Action and Carterton Medical Centre will be taking cash donations, and those wanting to donate online or sign up for the campaign can do so at http://nz.movember.com, and search Wai Grow a Mo.