Cigarette smoking is the major cause of preventable ill-health and premature death in Northern Ireland, killing around 2,300 people each year. Of these deaths approximately 800 are as a result of lung cancer, which is now the most common cause of cancer death for both men and women.

Rough sleepers across Belfast are receiving clothes to help them keep warm and dry this winter, through the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) ‘Keep Warm’ Scheme. The clothing and other protective items are being distributed to organisations working directly with rough sleepers across Belfast, so that they can provide a rapid response and help those most in need.

The Impact 2012 Youth, Sustainability and Environment Awards are now open for entries. These awards, a Northern Ireland Executive Initiative led by the Department of the Environment (DOE) and the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM), celebrate the achievements of young people in helping to improve our economy, our health, our society and our environment.

Would you like to find out about drug and alcohol support services in the Northern area? If so, drop in to the Living Rivers Church, Railway Street, Ballymena on Friday 4 November between 10am and 1pm, where a range of organisations will provide information and advice on the services they offer. Funded by the Public Health Agency (PHA) this event will highlight the types and locations of alcohol and drug-related services across the Northern area. Staff and volunteers will be available to answer questions on their work, reducing harm related to drugs and alcohol.

It’s that time of year again, the time when you start hearing coughing and sneezing throughout the office and working days are lost due to flu. Although flu can be mild for many, people who are in at-risk groups are particularly susceptible to the seriousness of flu. The Public Health Agency (PHA) is advising all employers of ways flu can be reduced in the workplace, leading to less sick days and a more productive workforce.

The Public Health Agency (PHA) today welcomed the announcement that Professor Sir Mike Richards (National Cancer Director) will undertake a review of the evidence underpinning breast screening.