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Researchers discover a new way to improve the assessment of prostate cancer aggressiveness

Researchers from Queen’s University Belfast have discovered a new way to predict the aggressiveness and future behaviour of prostate cancers.

The research was supported by the Belfast-Manchester Movember Centre of Excellence, Prostate Cancer UK, and the Health and Social Care Research and Development Division of the Public Health Agency.

Barry Macaulay Stroke Association Dr Janice Bailie PHA and research nurses

All-island research aims to reduce number of repeat strokes

Researchers from both sides of the Irish border have joined together in a large trial that looks at whether an inexpensive medication, already used to treat other conditions, could help prevent those who have already had a stroke from having a further stroke.

The CONVINCE study – which is currently taking place in nine centres across Europe – has been extended to include centres in Northern Ireland and the border counties of the Republic of Ireland. The extension follows a funding boost of just over €600,000 by the Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland, the Stroke Association, and the Health Research Board in the Republic of Ireland.

Be breast cancer aware this October

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month the Public Health Agency (PHA) is raising awareness of signs and symptoms of the condition, and encouraging women to look out for changes in their breasts.

“There were 1,478 cases of breast cancer diagnosed in Northern Ireland in 2017,” said Dr Louise Herron, Consultant in Service Development and Screening at the PHA.

“Most women know that if you get a lump in your breast you need to get it checked out early. But lumps aren’t the only sign of breast cancer. Our breasts look and feel different at different times in our lives. If you are worried about any change at all, the best way to put your mind at rest is to see your GP.”

Public urged to get flu vaccine

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging everyone who falls into an eligible group to get the free flu vaccine.

The calls comes as the agency launches this year’s flu vaccination programme, offering vaccines which are specially formulated to tackle the strains of the virus which are expected to be circulating this winter.

Students urged to look after mental health

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging students to be aware of the importance of looking after their mental health as the new academic year gets under way, and to seek help if they need it.

Starting university or college can be a stressful experience for young people, many of whom are leaving home for the first time. It’s also a time for developing new friendships, learning how to manage study and lectures, budgeting, dealing with financial worries, coping with a new course and exam stress and the expectation to succeed.

A culmination of these pressures can sometimes lead to feelings of stress, anxiety and loneliness.

The switchboard number for the PHA’s Headquarters at Linenhall Street, Belfast has changed to 0300 555 0114. Click here for more information.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) was established in April 2009 as part of the reforms to Health and Social Care (HSC) in Northern Ireland. We are the major regional organisation for health protection and health and social wellbeing improvement. Our role also commits us to addressing the causes and associated inequalities of preventable ill-health and lack of wellbeing. We are a multi-disciplinary, multi-professional body with a strong regional and local presence.

Directorates

In fulfilling our mandate to protect public health, improve public health and social wellbeing, and reduce inequalities in health and social wellbeing, the PHA works within an operational framework of three areas: Public Health, Nursing and Allied Health Professionals, and Operations. Our corporate and business plans reflect these arrangements and our purpose as an organisation.

Latest

Researchers discover a new way to improve the assessment of prostate cancer aggressiveness
Thursday, 10 October 2019 - News
Researchers from Queen’s University Belfast have discovered a new way to predict the aggressiveness and future behaviour of prostate cancers.
All-island research aims to reduce number of repeat strokes
Wednesday, 09 October 2019 - News
Researchers from both sides of the Irish border have joined together in a large trial that looks at whether an inexpensive medication, already used to treat other conditions, could help prevent those who have al
Be breast cancer aware this October
Friday, 04 October 2019 - News
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month the Public Health Agency (PHA) is raising awareness of signs and symptoms of the condition, and encouraging women to look out for changes in their breasts.
Public urged to get flu vaccine
Tuesday, 01 October 2019 - News
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging everyone who falls into an eligible group to get the free flu vaccine.