Largest analysis of UK health research funding published

A report published on 28 January 2020 delivers the most comprehensive analysis of UK health research funding ever compiled. Bringing together data from 146 charity, professional and public sector organisations, the UK Health Research Analysis 2018 found that in 2018 these funders contributed £4.8 billion to support research to improve human health. The report was compiled by a collaboration of 12 public and charitable funders led by the Medical Research Council, on behalf of the UK Clinical Research Collaboration (UKCRC). The UKCRC partnership supports coordination and collaboration between

Changes to the infant pneumococcal conjugate vaccine schedule - Information for healthcare practitioners

Stay sun safe on your winter break

Don’t forget your sunscreen – that’s the message from the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland to those heading off on a winter break. At this time of year many people will be flying off to catch some winter rays or hitting the ski slopes, but it’s important to stay safe in the sun, even during winter. Denise McCallion, Senior Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Officer at the PHA, said: “Many people forget to pack sunscreen when going on a winter holiday. People may not be aware of the risk of sunburn during winter months but it is important to take steps to

Advice on COVID-19 (coronavirus)

Derry teacher Miss Fox knows the 4Ts of type 1 diabetes

Caolan O’Neill, 6, from Derry was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes last year, after his teacher noticed he was going to the toilet a lot. Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented and occurs when the pancreas is no longer able to produce insulin. It is the most common type of diabetes in children and young adults. Caolan’s mum Amanda explains: “Caolan was quite the typical 5-year-old boy, he was very happy-go-lucky, enjoyed playing with his friends and dreaming of being a YouTuber and he had just started his first term in Primary 1 and was really loving it.” Caolan attended St Paul’s Primary and

Women encouraged to take up life-saving cervical screening when invited

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is taking the opportunity during Cervical Cancer Prevention Week to highlight the importance of women taking up the invitation to have cervical screening. Statistics show that between 2013 and 2017, there was an average of 83 women diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in Northern Ireland. Dr Damien Bennett, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the PHA, said: “Between 2013-2017 there were around 21 deaths from cervical cancer each year in Northern Ireland. It is therefore important for women to accept their invitation for the screening test – it could save

Top tips on getting fit and losing excess weight in 2020

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is taking the opportunity during Obesity Awareness Week to offer top tips on healthier eating and becoming more active. The Health Survey (NI) 2017/18 shows 64% of adults were either overweight (37%) or obese (27%). Caroline Bloomfield, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Senior Manager at the PHA, said: “At this time of the year, following Christmas, many people will be looking at how they can become healthier and fitter, how they can lose a bit of weight and get more active. “Having a waistline of 37 inches or more for a man and 32 inches or more for a

Vaccine preventable diseases and immunisation programmes

Introduction

Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to save lives and improve health, second only to clean water.

Northern Ireland offers a comprehensive vaccination programme, free for eligible individuals based on age or risk group, to protect against serious diseases.

Historically, Northern Ireland has achieved some of the highest immunisation uptake rates globally, thanks to the dedication of healthcare professionals. Maintaining this success is essential to reduce the spread of infectious diseases and safeguard public health.

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