The Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling on people to quite literally take some simple steps to better health. With three out of five adults here overweight or obese, the agency’s new campaign is encouraging us to increase the amount of steps we take to improve our health and help manage our weight. The campaign, part of the Choose to Live Better programme, encourages people to measure how many steps they take, and then set personal goals to increase this number.

When Erin Bonar from Ballycarry sadly passed away at the age of five in March last year, her mum Susan and dad Karl agreed to donate their beautiful, little girl’s organs. Erin helped save and transform the lives of three young children and an adult. Talking about her family’s experience, Susan explains why she is encouraging others to speak up and discuss their wishes early with their loved ones.

With the better weather, many families will be planning day trips over the coming weeks, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding everyone of the importance of personal hygiene when visiting farms and swimming pools. Dr Philip Veal, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, said: “Summer is a great time for day trips, but we want people to have pleasant memories, so by following a few simple hygiene tips, you can have a fantastic time and stay well.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is welcoming public health leaders from Yorkshire as they embark on an eight-day cycling challenge.

Strokes claim the lives of around 1,000 people in Northern Ireland every year. It is the third most common cause of death and the greatest cause of adult disability. The month of May is Action on Stroke Month, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding people to ‘think FAST’ if they see someone having a stroke.

1,620 employees from 36 companies across Northern Ireland have been tackling their weight and changing their lifestyles, supported by their employers who took part in Business in the Community’s £ for lb 12 week Challenge. Collectively, the employees lost 9,467 lbs (676 stone) – this equates to the weight of 52 average-sized UK men, or more than the weight of the average killer whale! In total, participants lost 1,509 waist inches which is almost the same height as Victoria Square.