The Public Health Agency (PHA) recently hosted an obesity prevention workshop ‘together let’s prevent childhood obesity’ in Lough Neagh Discovery Centre. The focus of discussions included the French initiative, EPODE – Ensemble Prevenons l’Obesite des enfants’, which has a proven track record of successfully tackling childhood obesity.

The Public Health Agency has warned that while the World Cup provides the opportunity to enjoy the thrill of great football with family and friends, big sporting events are also the alcohol and snack retailers’ dream, with special promotions and happy hours fuelling the inclination to over-indulge.

With the cold weather set to continue for some time and creating some of the most treacherous conditions to be seen in Northern Ireland for several years, the Southern Area Accident Prevention Liaison Group (SAAPLG) is warning everyone, but particularly older people, to take extra care to prevent slips and falls. Mary Black, Assistant Director for Health Improvement with the Public Health Agency said: “Falls are a significant risk for all age groups but especially for our older population.

January is the month in the health calendar when the spotlight focuses on cervical cancer prevention. The Public Health Agency (PHA) is using the opportunity to encourage women to attend when called for their cervical screening appointment and not to put it off. Each year around 90 women in Northern Ireland are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 20 women die from the disease. The PHA coordinates the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme in Northern Ireland and is taking this opportunity to emphasise the importance of going for a smear test when invited.

Home-Start volunteers from across the Newry area have attended a training session highlighting the importance of promoting healthy eating and active lifestyles for the under 5s. Home-Start offers support, friendship and practical help to parents with young children in the local community. The purpose of the training was to raise awareness of the ‘Healthy Steps for Life’ initiative developed by the Southern Investing for Health Partnership (SIHP) and to develop the volunteers’ knowledge and practical skills to encourage greater physical activity among young children.