There are around 9,000 new cases of cancer diagnosed each year in Northern Ireland, so to mark World Cancer Day [4 February], the Public Health Agency (PHA) has highlighted some steps that can reduce the risk of getting cancer.

One year on from the launch of the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) public information campaign on bowel cancer screening, over 57,000 test kits have been returned to the lab to be screened – but there are still people out there who aren’t taking up the opportunity. Those eligible are being encouraged to consider taking the test as it could save their life.

Over 140 business people and health practitioners gathered at Lagan Valley Island on Wednesday 23 January to learn more about Assessing and Addressing Health and Wellbeing at Work in a conference organised by the Public Health Agency and Business in the Community.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling for people to make themselves aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis, with the prevalence of this potentially life-threatening illness at its highest during the winter. Dr Richard Smithson, Consultant in Health Protection, PHA, explained: “Meningitis can occur at any time of year, but is seen most frequently in the winter. It is a serious disease, so it is vital everyone becomes more vigilant of the signs and symptoms to be able to detect the disease earlier, to allow early intervention.

Influenza activity in Northern Ireland has increased in recent weeks weeks. While this increase is expected at this time of year, it reinforces the need for people who are ‘at risk’ to get the vaccine as soon as possible, and this is particularly important for pregnant women. Women can find they are bombarded with advice during their pregnancy and face making tough choices about what is best for them and their baby. However, one Northern Ireland mum-to-be said her decision to get the flu vaccine this year required no debating at all.