Sunscreen is one holiday essential that often gets left behind when people pack for a winter holiday, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are reminding people not to forget their sunscreen when packing for their winter getaway. Dr Louise Herron, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Whether you are heading to the ski slopes or jetting off for some winter sun, it is important to stay safe in the sun during your break. It’s easy to associate winter with frostbite and windburn, but UV rays can be every bit as damaging for winter sun seekers. It is

The theme of this year’s Sexual Health Week campaign (10-16 February) is having open conversations and the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people to do just that. Good sexual health is about having safe, positive and respectful experiences and relationships throughout life. To do this, we all need to be able to have open, age appropriate conversations. Talking about sex and sexual wellbeing can help establish healthy relationships due to the confidence that comes from being informed. Speaking about issues such as consent, choice and respect, health and wellbeing can help people

This World Cancer Day on Tuesday 4 February, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people to take notice of their bodies and contact their GP if they feel something isn’t right. Dr Louise Herron, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Everyone knows what feels ‘normal’ for them and it’s important to be aware of any changes in your body, but there are some common changes and symptoms to look out for and act on. Being aware of the general signs and symptoms of cancer can help in early detection and increase your chance of survival. “Cancer is a common condition. It is

Community pharmacies across Northern Ireland are providing advice and support to help people look after their mental health in a new campaign. Running throughout February and March, the “Look after your mental health” campaign is part of the Living Well initiative, a partnership between the Public Health Agency (PHA), Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI) and the Department of Health (DoH), providing public health advice in over 500 pharmacies. The campaign highlights the importance of small daily actions to benefit your mental health and wellbeing, being aware of any signs of problems, and using self

During the live 12 week consultation period for the Public Health Agency (PHA) Draft Corporate Plan 2025-2030 and following on from two successful in-person collaboration events, we are holding one further online session for those who have been unable to attend but would like to participate. Details of the online stakeholder consultation event is as follows: Date: Thursday 06 February 2025 Time: 12.30pm to 2.00pm Venue: Online – link will be issued to those registered in due course This draft Plan sets out the strategic direction for the PHA for the next five years in terms of what we will do

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is advising people to look after themselves and others following the red and amber weather warnings issued ahead of Storm Éowyn . A red weather warning means there is a risk to life and as such the public should stay and home and not travel during this time. Dr Joanne McClean, Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “With Storm Éowyn set to bring extremely strong winds, a drop in temperature and potential disruption, it’s important to plan ahead to try to reduce its impact. “For some people the onset of cold and windy weather can bring particular hazards. For

This Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (21–28 January), the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding women of the importance of attending for cervical screening when invited. Katrina Jones from Belfast went for her routine cervical smear test in 2022 and after further investigations, found out she had cervical cancer. Katrina said: “I just went for a routine smear test and didn’t think anything of it. They called me back and I then had a biopsy. I could actually tell by the look on their faces that I had cancer. “I was expecting to be told I had cancer but thought I’d maybe have a few little

What is HSC regional LGBTQ+ staff forum? A confidential Forum to provide a safe and welcoming space for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people working within health and social care, create an inclusive environment, and improve wellbeing. The Public Health Agency is committed to promoting health and reducing health inequalities in Northern Ireland. The Agency also recognises the central contribution that staff makes to the fabric of our health and social care services. With approximately 66,000 staff employed across all HSC settings, based on population estimates of Lesbian, Gay