Manuary

Manuary is an annual awareness month observed throughout January. The term is a portmanteau of “Man” and “January.” It is primarily used as a health awareness campaign dedicated to Head and Neck Cancer (specifically those caused by the Human Papillomavirus, or HPV) and, more broadly, to men’s mental and physical health. It serves as a complementary follow-up to “Movember,” shifting the focus from prostate and testicular health to the rising rates of throat and oral cancers in men.

History of Manuary

Manuary was founded by the Head and Neck Cancer Coalition (specifically spearheaded by organizations like The Throat Cancer Foundation) to address a significant gap in public awareness. While pink ribbons for breast cancer and moustaches for prostate cancer are globally recognized, head and neck cancers—particularly those affecting the oropharynx—often went undiscussed.

The campaign gained traction in the early 2010s. Medical data showed a sharp increase in throat cancer cases among men, largely linked to HPV. The organizers chose January for the observance to take advantage of the “New Year, New You” mindset, encouraging men to start the year with a resolution to prioritize their health screenings.

Why is Manuary Important?

The primary goal of Manuary is to destigmatize discussions around head and neck cancers and to promote early detection. These cancers are often treatable if caught early, but because the symptoms can be subtle, they are frequently diagnosed at later stages.

1. The HPV Connection

A significant percentage of head and neck cancers are now linked to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Manuary works to educate men on the importance of the HPV vaccine and the reality that this virus is a leading cause of throat cancer.

2. Normalizing “Checking Your Neck”

Just as women are taught to perform breast self-exams, Manuary teaches men to be aware of persistent lumps, sore throats, or changes in their voice.

3. Holistic Men’s Health

Beyond cancer, many organizations use “Manuary” to talk about men’s mental health. With January often being a difficult month due to “post-holiday blues” and cold weather, the campaign encourages men to speak openly about depression and anxiety.

How to Observe or Participate in Manuary

Participation is focused on education, advocacy, and personal health checks. Here is how you can get involved:

• Self-Screening
  Pay attention to symptoms that last longer than three weeks, such as a persistent sore throat, a lump in the neck, or difficulty swallowing.
• The “Manuary Beard”
  Similar to Movember, some participants grow beards throughout January to spark conversations about head and neck cancer.
• Spread the Word
  Share infographics about the symptoms of throat cancer on social media to help friends and family recognize the signs.
• Book a Check-up
  Use the month as a reminder to visit a dentist or GP. Dentists are often the first professionals to spot oral cancer during a routine cleaning.
• Support Vaccination
  Advocate for HPV vaccinations for young boys and men, which can prevent the vast majority of these cancers later in life.

Manuary Observance Dates