School’s almost out for summer and this is a great time to talk to your child about their, and your, use of alcohol. Exams will soon be over for thousands of students and many will be thinking of celebrating. With this in mind, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging parents to broach the subject of alcohol with their children.
Derry Credit Union scoops PHA workplace health award
The Public Health Agency (PHA) has recognised the outstanding commitment of Derry Credit Union Limited to creating a healthy workplace. The PHA-sponsored Healthy Workplace Award 2013 was presented to Derry Credit Union Limited at the recent Derry-Londonderry Business Awards. The credit union beat off stiff competition from fellow finalists City of Derry Airport, Firstsource and Sainsbury’s, to win the award. Brendan Bonner, Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement for the Western area at the PHA said that the award acknowledges the health-conscious employer.
Major conference tackles skin cancer problem
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in Northern Ireland, with around 3,330 developing it every year, so a major conference taking place in Belfast today has looked at what is being done to prevent it.
Leisure centres throw their weight behind Choose to Live Better campaign
Waists across the Northern area are set to be measured over coming months as part of the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) Choose to Live Better campaign. Thirteen leisure centres in the Northern area have been provided with weighing scales, stadiometers (for height measurement) and tape measures, funded by the PHA. Fitness instructors at council leisure centres have been trained by dietetic support workers to calculate body mass index (BMI) and waist measurements.
Major events public health advice
Major events can attract thousands of visitors from all over the world. When many people are gathered together for such events, there can be an increased risk to public health, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) plays a key role in helping to reduce this risk. For advice and information on how to reduce the risk to public health during major events click here.
Cervical cancer screening saves lives
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.
Older people in Northern Ireland – living longer and healthier
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.
Cooking Up a Storm – Men’s Health and Wellbeing
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.