| HSC Public Health Agency

HIV surveillance in Northern Ireland 2013 : An analysis of data for the calendar year 2012.

This report aims to provide an overview of HIV epidemiology in Northern Ireland by collating and analysing information from a number of sources. Although it reflects epidemiological trends over time, its main focus will be on data collected in 2012

Smoking increases your risk of developing mouth cancer, PHA warns

Read more about Smoking increases your risk of developing mouth cancer, PHA warns

Latest figures show that in Northern Ireland, 216 people were diagnosed with mouth cancer in one year. With Mouth Cancer Awareness Month (1–30 November) drawing to an end, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging everyone to continue to be vigilant of the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer and is encouraging all smokers who are thinking about giving up smoking to make the decision to stop today.

Northern Ireland Primary and Secondary Care Opioid Substitute Treatment Guidelines (2013)

The guidelines are intended for all those involved in providing support for drug misusers, especially those providing pharmacological interventions as a component of drug misuse treatment.

Patient and Client Experience Annual Report 2012-2013

The Patient and Client Experience Annual Report 2012-13 demonstrates that although healthcare is often highly pressurised, all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts are ensuring that patient experience remains a priority.

The report provides an analysis of the patient and client monitoring including evidence-based statements from patients; highlights areas of good practice within each of the HSC Trusts and outlines areas where further improvements are required to enhance the experience of patients and clients.

Listening to families touched by suicide is essential

Read more about Listening to families touched by suicide is essential

Families who have been affected by suicide have an important role to play in the vital work that is ongoing to help prevent suicide and promote mental health and wellbeing. That is according to the Public Health Agency (PHA), which is marking International Survivors of Suicide Day (23 November).

Have you had your flu vaccine yet?

Read more about Have you had your flu vaccine yet?

As we move closer to the height of winter, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding people who are eligible for the flu vaccine but haven’t yet had it, to get it as soon as possible.

World COPD Day – stop smoking now to cut the risk

Read more about World COPD Day – stop smoking now to cut the risk

In 2013, 34,522 people in Northern Ireland were registered as having the life-threatening lung disease Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which is caused primarily by smoking.

Antibiotics are a valuable resource – use them wisely!

Read more about Antibiotics are a valuable resource – use them wisely!

Antimicrobial resistance is a global problem and is already becoming a major threat to the management of infections. On European Antibiotic Awareness Day the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) are taking this opportunity to highlight the problem of antimicrobial resistance and to encourage patients and those working in health and social care to play their part in reducing the risk of resistance.

Working together to tackle smoking prevalence

Read more about Working together to tackle smoking prevalence

Smoking is the single greatest cause of preventable illness, premature death and health inequality throughout Northern Ireland. Around 2,300 people die prematurely each year from smoking-related illnesses such as coronary heart disease, stroke and many cancers.

PHA advice on preventing stimulant-related deaths

Read more about PHA advice on preventing stimulant-related deaths

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is today issuing advice aimed at preventing stimulant-related death and illness. The PHA has produced guidance aimed at anyone who comes into contact with stimulant drug users through work in the community and voluntary sector or in healthcare settings. Stimulants include ecstasy, cocaine, speed, mephedrone and para-Methoxyamphetamine (PMA). Many of what are commonly known as ‘legal highs’ are stimulants and are usually in powder, capsule or pill form.