December is beard month -- also known as Decembeard -- to raise money to help beat the scourge of bowel cancer.

Last year the month-long charity event saw 750 Beardys around the country raise £115,000 that helped deal with almost 5,000 enquiries relating to this deadly disease. Specialised nurses were able to provide information that people desperately needed.

Decembeard is organised by the organisation Beating Bowel Cancer, and this year they are calling on 1,000 Beardys to help raise £145,000. The event is sponsored by King of Shaves, and by growing a beard you’re visibly showing that you care and are participating.

Beating Bowel Cancer has been helping to save lives from the disease since 1999. Bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer in the UK after lung cancer, with almost 40,700 people diagnosed in 2010. The money raised will provide support to bowel cancer patients and the people who look after them.

Another aim of Decembeard is to raise awareness of bowel cancer -- that although it is widespread, it’s among the most treatable cancers providing it is diagnosed early. It is vital, therefore, to get medical attention as soon as you feel there is something wrong.

Among the symptoms of bowel cancer are changes in bowel habits, sudden weight loss, pain in the abdomen and dizziness and breathlessness. It’s also important to know how to try and prevent bowel cancer, such as by stopping smoking, cutting down on alcohol, eating healthily and exercising regularly.

You don’t have to just be a man to take part in Decembeard because apart from growing one you can make, bake or fake a lovely beard for this great cause. Simply register at http://www.beatingbowelcancer.org/decembeard-register and start raising money.

December’s most beloved man is famous for his beard, and proud of it. So go on, just like Father Christmas, show yours off and help give the gift of life.

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