During Cervical Cancer Awareness Week (9–15 June) the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding women to take up invites to have a regular screening test for cervical cancer – it could literally save your life. With an average of 105 women diagnosed with cervical cancer and 24 women dying from the disease each year in Northern Ireland, it is important for individuals to accept their invitation for a screening test.

Over the past 100 years, life expectancy for men and women in Northern Ireland has risen by over 30 years and this massive achievement will be celebrated today at the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) Annual Scientific Conference. Fifteen per cent of our population is now aged over 65 and this year’s conference will focus on older people, and how public health innovations, research and practice meet their needs. The event at Riddel Hall, Stranmillis, will also see the launch of the Director of Public Health’s Annual Report which this year focuses on older people’s health.

A cookery demonstration held by the Public Health Agency (PHA) has provided food for thought for a local men’s group. The demonstration took place recently in the Ballyoran Community Centre in east Belfast and was attended by members of the Ballybeen Men’s Motivation Group. The demonstration gave examples of how to cook healthy, tasty and quick meals on a budget.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling on men and those close to them, to take action to look after their health this Men’s Health Week, which begins today. There is a role for everyone, as men’s health is not just an issue for individual men. While it is crucial for men to take responsibility for looking after themselves, their health can often be determined by other factors outside of their personal control.

A new UNICEF UK Professional Assistant has been appointed to ensure that pregnant women and new mums are given the best information and support on feeding and caring for their babies. Kristy-Lee Greene has been appointed to this new role, which is supported by the Public Health Agency (PHA). The role has been developed to enable Health and Social Care Trusts and Sure Starts to implement the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative (BFI) best practice standards.

Consultant Nurse at the Public Health Agency, Sandra Aitcheson, has been awarded the Professional Excellence Award, Northern Ireland Life After Stroke Awards which took place recently. Health Minister Edwin Poots, government and health representatives honoured the achievements of stroke survivors, their carers and supporters at the event. Speaking at the event in the Stormont Hotel, Tom Richardson, Northern Ireland Director, The Stroke Association said that Sandra has been a key player in pioneering for better stroke services in Northern Ireland.

The exam season is well underway and with many students experiencing pressure at this time of year, the Public Health Agency (PHA) has highlighted the importance of parents’ and families’ support for their children’s emotional wellbeing during this potentially stressful time.

‘Don’t ignore tick-borne Lyme disease’ is the message from the Public Health Agency (PHA) as we approach the summer months. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, a serious and debilitating disease which may be transmitted to humans through their bite.

Smoking kills 2,300 people prematurely in Northern Ireland every year, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling on people to use World No Tobacco Day (Friday 31 May) as the perfect opportunity to quit. Smoking is the single greatest cause of preventable illness, premature death and health inequality throughout Northern Ireland and 2,300 people die prematurely each year from smoking-related illnesses such as coronary heart disease, stroke and many cancers.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is lending its support to Arts Care’s biggest dance and disability performance event of the year. The innovative and creative dance project will be part of the City of Culture 2013 celebrations.