Waists across the Northern area are set to be measured over coming months as part of the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) Choose to Live Better campaign. Thirteen leisure centres in the Northern area have been provided with weighing scales, stadiometers (for height measurement) and tape measures, funded by the PHA. Fitness instructors at council leisure centres have been trained by dietetic support workers to calculate body mass index (BMI) and waist measurements.

Major events can attract thousands of visitors from all over the world. When many people are gathered together for such events, there can be an increased risk to public health, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) plays a key role in helping to reduce this risk. For advice and information on how to reduce the risk to public health during major events click here.

During Cervical Cancer Awareness Week (9–15 June) the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding women to take up invites to have a regular screening test for cervical cancer – it could literally save your life. With an average of 105 women diagnosed with cervical cancer and 24 women dying from the disease each year in Northern Ireland, it is important for individuals to accept their invitation for a screening test.

Over the past 100 years, life expectancy for men and women in Northern Ireland has risen by over 30 years and this massive achievement will be celebrated today at the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) Annual Scientific Conference. Fifteen per cent of our population is now aged over 65 and this year’s conference will focus on older people, and how public health innovations, research and practice meet their needs. The event at Riddel Hall, Stranmillis, will also see the launch of the Director of Public Health’s Annual Report which this year focuses on older people’s health.

A cookery demonstration held by the Public Health Agency (PHA) has provided food for thought for a local men’s group. The demonstration took place recently in the Ballyoran Community Centre in east Belfast and was attended by members of the Ballybeen Men’s Motivation Group. The demonstration gave examples of how to cook healthy, tasty and quick meals on a budget.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling on men and those close to them, to take action to look after their health this Men’s Health Week, which begins today. There is a role for everyone, as men’s health is not just an issue for individual men. While it is crucial for men to take responsibility for looking after themselves, their health can often be determined by other factors outside of their personal control.

A new UNICEF UK Professional Assistant has been appointed to ensure that pregnant women and new mums are given the best information and support on feeding and caring for their babies. Kristy-Lee Greene has been appointed to this new role, which is supported by the Public Health Agency (PHA). The role has been developed to enable Health and Social Care Trusts and Sure Starts to implement the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) best practice standards.

Consultant Nurse at the Public Health Agency, Sandra Aitcheson, has been awarded the Professional Excellence Award, Northern Ireland Life After Stroke Awards which took place recently. Health Minister Edwin Poots, government and health representatives honoured the achievements of stroke survivors, their carers and supporters at the event. Speaking at the event in the Stormont Hotel, Tom Richardson, Northern Ireland Director, The Stroke Association said that Sandra has been a key player in pioneering for better stroke services in Northern Ireland.