What is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month?

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is an annual event held every April to raise awareness about bowel cancer, educate the public on the importance of early detection, and provide support for those affected by the disease. This month is dedicated to spreading vital information about prevention, symptoms, screening, and treatment options for bowel cancer. By coming together during this time, we can encourage people to take charge of their health and increase the chances of successful outcomes through early diagnosis.

Why is it Important?

Bowel cancer, which includes colon and rectal cancers, is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK. It affects both men and women and is primarily diagnosed in those over 60, although it can also impact younger individuals. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, yet many people may not be aware of the symptoms or may be hesitant to seek medical advice.

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to educate the public about how lifestyle choices, regular screenings, and recognising potential warning signs can help reduce the risk of bowel cancer.

Key Facts About Bowel Cancer:

• Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK.
• Over 40,000 new cases are diagnosed annually in the UK.
• It is more common in people aged 60 and older, but younger individuals are also at risk.
• Lifestyle factors such as diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk.
• If detected early, the survival rate for bowel cancer is significantly higher.

Key Symptoms of Bowel Cancer:

It’s crucial to recognise the warning signs of bowel cancer. These may include:

• Persistent changes in bowel habits (e.g., diarrhea, constipation, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation)
• Blood in your stool, or rectal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• A lump in the abdomen or pelvis

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult your GP for further investigation. Early detection can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment.

Screening for Bowel Cancer:

In the UK, bowel cancer screening is offered to individuals between the ages of 60 and 74. Screening involves taking a stool sample, which is then tested for signs of blood that may indicate the presence of cancer. If you are eligible for screening, it’s important to participate, as it can detect cancer early when treatment is most effective.

If you’re outside the screening age range, speak to your GP if you have concerns or a family history of bowel cancer.

Support for Those Affected:

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month also focuses on providing support to those diagnosed with the disease. Many organisations offer resources for patients, family members, and caregivers, including:

• Emotional support services
• Information on treatment options
• Advice on managing symptoms and side effects
• Ways to connect with others who are going through similar experiences

If you or someone you know is living with bowel cancer, reach out to support groups, healthcare providers, and charities that can provide invaluable assistance.

Key Organisations to Follow:

• Bowel Cancer UK – A leading charity providing information, support, and funding for bowel cancer research.
• Macmillan Cancer Support – Offers support for anyone affected by cancer, including those with bowel cancer.
• Cancer Research UK – Provides up-to-date information on bowel cancer and ongoing research into treatments and prevention.

Remember, early detection saves lives!

For more information, visit Bowel Cancer UK or Macmillan Cancer Support.

Stress Awareness Month is observed every April to raise awareness about stress, its causes, its impact on health, and ways to manage and reduce it. This month-long campaign aims to educate the public on how stress can affect various aspects of our lives and promote healthier coping mechanisms.

What is Stress?

Stress is the body’s natural response to demands or challenges. When you encounter a situation that requires you to react, whether it's personal, professional, or physical, your body triggers the “fight or flight” response, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. While this can be helpful in short bursts, chronic stress can have detrimental effects on mental and physical health.

The Impact of Stress

Stress can manifest in a variety of ways, both physically and emotionally. Some common effects include:

Physical Effects:

• Headaches or migraines
• Muscle tension or pain
• Fatigue
• Sleep problems (insomnia or excessive sleep)
• Heart problems (elevated heart rate, high blood pressure)
• Digestive issues (nausea, irritable bowel syndrome)

Emotional and Mental Effects:

• Anxiety or nervousness
• Depression
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feelings of helplessness

Causes of Stress

Stress can come from various sources in life, including:

• Work-related pressure: Deadlines, performance expectations, and job insecurity.
• Personal life challenges: Relationship issues, financial troubles, or health concerns.
• External factors: Environmental stressors such as traffic, noise, or global events.
• Health conditions: Managing chronic illness or dealing with medical concerns.

Why Stress Awareness Month Matters

While some stress is inevitable, the key is recognising when it becomes overwhelming and learning how to manage it. During Stress Awareness Month, the goal is to help individuals identify their stress triggers, understand how stress affects their well-being, and promote healthier coping mechanisms. Awareness campaigns also seek to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage people to seek help when needed.

How to Manage Stress

Effective stress management involves a combination of lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, and seeking professional support. Here are some tips for reducing stress:

1. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness, breathing exercises, and meditation can help you stay grounded and calm during stressful moments. These techniques reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity.

2. Stay Active

Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural stress-relievers. Even a daily walk can help reduce the tension caused by stress.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Lack of sleep can exacerbate stress. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help your body and mind recharge.

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating a balanced diet can have a positive impact on your stress levels. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals can help regulate mood and energy levels.

5. Connect with Others

Social support is crucial when managing stress. Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about what’s bothering you. Sometimes, just sharing your feelings can help alleviate stress.

6. Set Boundaries

Learn to say no and prioritise your responsibilities. Avoid overcommitting yourself and set healthy boundaries to prevent burnout.

7. Seek Professional Help

If stress becomes overwhelming, seeking support from a mental health professional such as a therapist or counsellor can provide you with strategies for coping and reducing stress in a healthy way. Please contact your GP if you have any questions.

• such as yoga, journaling, or taking breaks throughout the day.

For more information on stress management resources or upcoming events, visit Stress Awareness Month Official Website.

What is World Health Day?

World Health Day is an annual global event celebrated on April 7th to raise awareness about important health issues that impact people worldwide. The event was established by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1948 to commemorate its founding and highlight significant health challenges, promote healthier living, and advocate for global health initiatives.

Theme for 2025: "Health for All: A Global Commitment"

The theme for World Health Day 2025, "Health for All: A Global Commitment," emphasises the importance of universal health coverage. This theme calls for:

• Access to Health Services: Ensuring that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic background, has access to essential healthcare.
• Improved Quality of Care: Advocating for high-quality, affordable healthcare services that are accessible to all.
• Global Health Equity: Tackling health disparities and working toward equal health outcomes across all regions and populations.

In 2025, the WHO will focus on strengthening health systems worldwide, ensuring that no one is left behind in terms of health access, and encouraging governments and organisations to make a firm commitment to improving the health of all people.

Global Health Issues to Highlight

• Mental Health: Mental health has become a critical concern worldwide, with many individuals lacking access to the necessary resources and care. World Health Day 2025 will aim to raise awareness about mental health services and create supportive environments for mental well-being.
• Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): Diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer are on the rise globally. Prevention and access to affordable treatment are key focal points for this year's campaign.
• Infectious Diseases: While COVID-19 remains a significant challenge, other infectious diseases like tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and malaria still affect millions. The campaign will emphasise the importance of prevention, treatment, and vaccination.
• Health Systems Strengthening: Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is an essential component of WHO's vision. Strengthening health systems and improving infrastructure to provide equitable access to health services is vital.

World Immunisation Week takes place every year in the last week of April to raise awareness about the importance of immunisation in preventing diseases.This global health initiative is an opportunity to educate communities on the importance of staying up to date with vaccinations and the role they play in protecting individuals and society from preventable diseases.

Why Immunisation Matters for You and Your Family

Immunisation is one of the most effective ways to protect against a range of serious diseases, many of which can cause long-term health problems or even death. In the UK, vaccines help protect against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and flu, and they are a cornerstone of our national health policy.

1. Protection for Children and Adults: Immunisation isn’t just for children; adults also need to stay up to date with vaccinations like the flu vaccine, shingles vaccine, and COVID-19 boosters.
2. Herd Immunity: High immunisation rates help create herd immunity, which protects those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants, the elderly, and those with certain medical conditions.
3. Preventing Outbreaks: Ensuring you and your family are vaccinated helps prevent outbreaks of diseases that were previously under control, like the measles outbreak in Europe.

What Vaccines Are Available in the UK?

In the UK, a comprehensive vaccination schedule is offered, which includes vaccines for:

• Children: Routine vaccinations include those for diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), and more.
• Flu Vaccine: Available for children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with certain health conditions. It’s especially important during the winter months.
• Shingles Vaccine: For adults aged 70-79, this vaccine helps protect against shingles, a painful and often debilitating condition.
• COVID-19 Vaccine: Available for eligible groups, with booster doses recommended for those at higher risk.
• Travel Vaccines: If you're planning to travel, it’s important to check if you need additional vaccinations, such as hepatitis A, typhoid, or yellow fever.

Key Actions You Can Take During World Immunisation Week:

1. Check Your Immunisation Status: Review your vaccination history to ensure you and your family are up to date. If you’re unsure, your GP can help you check.
2. Book an Appointment: If you or your child are due for any vaccinations, make an appointment with your GP. This is especially important for flu and routine childhood vaccines.
3. Spread Awareness: Share the importance of vaccination with family, friends, and social media networks. Raising awareness helps encourage others to protect their health too.
4. Engage with Your GP: If you have any doubts or questions, don’t hesitate to ask your GP about the benefits of vaccination and how it protects you and your community.

How Vaccines Help Protect You and Your Community

1. Protect Yourself and Your Family: Vaccines are a safe and effective way to prevent potentially severe or life-threatening illnesses.
2. Prevent the Spread of Disease: By getting vaccinated, you contribute to the health of your entire community. If enough people are vaccinated, it can help stop the spread of diseases like measles, polio, and flu.
3. Protect Vulnerable Groups: People who cannot be vaccinated due to medical conditions (such as infants or those with weakened immune systems) rely on the protection provided by others who are vaccinated. This is called "herd immunity."

Vaccination Myths vs. Facts

There are many misconceptions about vaccines, but they are safe and effective. Here are some common myths and the facts that dispel them:

• Myth: Vaccines can cause the diseases they’re supposed to protect against.
• Fact: Vaccines contain killed or weakened forms of a virus or bacteria, so they cannot cause the disease.
• Myth: The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) causes autism.
• Fact: Extensive research has shown no link between the MMR vaccine and autism.
• Myth: Vaccines are unnecessary because the diseases they prevent are rare.
• Fact: While diseases like measles are less common in the UK, outbreaks can occur if vaccination rates drop. Vaccines have virtually eradicated many diseases, but we must maintain high vaccination rates to keep them controlled.

Key Facts About Vaccination in the UK

• Vaccines prevent around 2-3 million deaths worldwide each year.
• The UK’s childhood vaccination programme has led to the near-eradication of diseases like polio and diphtheria.
• The flu vaccine is available annually for free to those who are most vulnerable, including those over 65 and those with chronic health conditions.
• The MMR vaccine is given to children at 1 year and again at 3 years and 4 months to protect against measles, mumps, and rubella.

For more information, visit NHS Vaccination Information.

Young Carers Action Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about young carers - children and young people who provide unpaid care and support to family members, often due to illness, disability, or other long-term conditions. The day aims to recognise the vital role these young individuals play, highlight the challenges they face, and promote the importance of providing them with the support they need.

The theme for Young Carers Action 2025 is ‘Give Me A Break”. Young carers carry a heavy load of responsibility, leaving them with little time for themselves and putting them at a high risk of burnout. They need a break. Research shows that young carers are much more likely to experience severe psychological distress compared to their peers without caring responsibilities. It's crucial for them to have time away from their caregiving duties to rest, recharge, and focus on themselves - whether that's pursuing a hobby or simply spending time with friends, just like others their age.

The ‘Give Me A Break’ theme also highlights the need for education professionals and employers to provide young carers with a break in life. This could involve offering additional support at school, acknowledging that their caregiving duties at home often leave them feeling overwhelmed as they try to balance these responsibilities with their schoolwork. By better understanding these pressures and offering assistance, education professionals can help young carers manage their challenges, giving them the opportunity to succeed both at school and in further and higher education.

If you are a young carer, please let your GP know so we can update our records.

Contact Carers Direct

• Telephone – 0808 802 0202
• Helpline Information – nhs.uk/carersdirect/carerslives/updates/pages/carersdirecthelpline.aspx
• Email – carersdirect@nhschoices.nhs.uk
• Office Hours – Lines are open 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 11am to 4pm at weekends. Calls are free from UK landlines.
• ISLINGTON CARERS HUB is there to help. Please call 0800 085 1141(FREEPHONE)

upport is something we all require at times, with some needing it more than others, and that's perfectly okay. The same applies to individuals with Down syndrome.

Receiving the right support from the right people enables us to open up, creates opportunities, and empowers us to take control of our lives.

It’s also crucial for families to receive love and support from their peers, whether that be colleagues, family, or friends.

World Down Syndrome Day is an opportunity to celebrate these individuals in our lives and to inspire action, highlighting the importance of ensuring human rights.

Cancers of the ovary, fallopian tube, and peritoneum are frequently categorised together due to their similarities, and they are treated in the same manner.

Ovarian cancer can affect anyone with ovaries and fallopian tubes, including women, transgender men, and individuals assigned female at birth.

5 important things we all need to know:

1. Ovarian cancer is not a silent disease – there are key symptoms that are persistent and often occur from the start, which may indicate you have the condition. These symptoms include bloating, abdominal pain, frequent urination, and feeling full quickly.
2. Cervical screening does not detect ovarian cancer. While it’s important to attend your cervical screening when invited, be aware that it does not identify ovarian cancer. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of ovarian cancer, and if you're concerned, consult your GP.
3. Ovarian cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, but post-menopausal women and those over 50 are at a higher risk.
4. Even if you’ve had a hysterectomy, you can still develop ovarian cancer. If you still have your ovaries, you remain at risk. If you've had or still have ovaries and experience any of the above symptoms, see your GP.
5. A family history of cancer is important to note. A common misconception is that hereditary ovarian cancer is only passed through the maternal line, but this is not true. You may be at higher risk if there are two or more cases of breast and/or ovarian cancer in your family history.

Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer
Your GP will inquire about your symptoms and perform an internal vaginal examination to check for any lumps or swelling. They will typically arrange the following tests:

• A CA125 blood test to measure elevated levels of this protein, which may indicate ovarian cancer.
• Ultrasound scans to examine the organs in the pelvic and abdominal areas.

Please visit https://targetovariancancer.org.uk/ to learn more about Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

This year, Nutrition and Hydration Week will take place from March 17th to 23rd, 2025. Its goal is to raise awareness and educate people about the importance of food and drink in supporting health and well-being.

The mission of Nutrition and Hydration Week is:

‘To create a global movement that will focus energy, activity and engagement on nutrition and hydration as a fundamental element of maintaining health and well-being for our global community.’

With tighter budget constraints making public health efforts more challenging, Nutrition and Hydration Week is one of the most cost-effective health interventions available.

Why is good nutrition and hydration important?

Malnutrition and dehydration are significant concerns in health and social care services and are more common than many realize.

Around 1 in 3 patients admitted to hospitals or care homes are either malnourished or at risk of becoming so.

These statistics are concerning, but what is even more alarming is the impact they have. Poor nutrition and dehydration can negatively affect patients' health and well-being, hinder their ability to recover from illness, and lead to longer hospital or care home stays. This, in turn, places additional strain on patients, healthcare providers, and the system.

Good nutrition and hydration are crucial not only for patients and service users but for everyone. We all benefit from nourishing our bodies with nutritious food and staying hydrated throughout the day.

Life can be busy, especially for those working in healthcare, and it’s often challenging to find time to prepare healthy meals and drink enough water.

Take this week as an opportunity to assess and improve the quality of nutrition and hydration provided to both healthcare patients and service users—and to yourself. This can help reduce avoidable hospital stays and improve overall health and well-being.

Visit the Nutrition and Hydration Week website to find out more.

World Kidney Day (WKD) is an annual global event dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of kidney health, the prevention of kidney disease, and the need for early detection and treatment.

The day aims to educate the public and policymakers about kidney health, kidney disease prevention, and the impact of kidney-related conditions on individuals and communities worldwide.

World Kidney Day also works to combat the rising global incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), which can be caused by factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and unhealthy lifestyle choices.

To reduce your risk of CKD, it's important to focus on healthy lifestyle choices and take precautions with certain medications. Here are some key steps you can take:

1. Quit Smoking: Smoking can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to your kidneys, increasing the risk of CKD. Quitting smoking helps protect your kidneys and improves overall health.
2. Reduce Alcohol Intake: Drinking excessive alcohol can lead to high blood pressure and liver damage, both of which can contribute to kidney disease. Moderating your alcohol intake helps protect your kidneys.
3. 30 Minutes of Exercise a Day: Regular physical activity helps manage weight, reduces blood pressure, and improves heart health - all factors that can lower your risk of CKD. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
4. Staying a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which in turn can lead to kidney damage. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can reduce your risk.
5. Be Cautious with Anti-inflammatory Drugs (e.g., Ibuprofen): Long-term or excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, can damage the kidneys. These drugs should be used cautiously, especially in people with existing kidney problems or conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.

In addition to these, it's important to regularly monitor kidney function if you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. Early detection and treatment can help prevent CKD from progressing.

National No Smoking Day is an ideal time to start your journey towards a healthier, smoke-free life. Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions for your health, and the positive effects begin right away:

✔️ Improved breathing – Your lungs begin to heal, making it easier to breathe.
✔️ Increased energy – Better oxygen levels enhance circulation.
✔️ Lower risk of disease – Reduces your chances of heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.
✔️ Extra savings – Smokers spend thousands each year on cigarettes.

Breathe Stop Smoking Service is a free Camden & Islington service. Get the support that suits you best to stop smoking, including tips to stop by yourself, personalised help from a specialist advisor online or over the phone, and face-to-face support in Islington (and Camden) throughout your journey to be smoke free.

How to Get Support

📞 Call 020 3633 2609
📲 Text “QUIT” to 66777
💻 Visit Breathe – Stop Smoking Service

We are pleased to announce that Arsenal’s next round of Shape Up weight management courses are now open for enrolment and begin in April. Arsenal are also running one further round of their Women’s Shape Up project.

You can self refer by contacting communityhealth@arsenal.co.uk. Alternatively, you can submit an online consultation and request a referral to the programme.

We encourage patients to watch Arsenal’s video to understand what the programme is: https://vimeo.com/856389052?share=copy 

World Cancer Day is observed globally every year on February 4th, bringing people together in the fight against cancer.

It’s an ideal occasion to raise awareness about cancer and share how we can all take steps to reduce the risk.

One important action we can take is to respond to NHS cancer screening invitations.

In England, there are three types of cancer screenings for adults that save thousands of lives each year: breast cancer screening, bowel cancer screening, and cervical screening.

To find out more about World Cancer Day, please visit the dedicated website.

National HIV Testing Week is an annual initiative by HIV Prevention England that highlights the importance of regular HIV testing. The campaign aims to reduce the number of undiagnosed HIV cases and those diagnosed late.

The UK government’s target is to eliminate HIV transmissions and HIV-related stigma by 2030. How can we make this happen?

Free HIV testing is simple and quick – just a finger-prick. Regular testing is essential because HIV can go undetected for years without symptoms. The only way to know your HIV status is to get tested. Early detection allows individuals to begin treatment, stay healthy, and prevent transmission to others.

You can visit the Sexual Health London website to order a free home testing kit.

You can also speak to our staff in your local sexual health service, or your GP. 

Who should get tested?

• It’s recommended for everyone who is sexually active to get tested for HIV and other STIs at least once a year, even if there’s no obvious risk. If someone has multiple sexual partners, they should consider testing more frequently.
• Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) should get tested regularly for HIV and STIs, at least once a year, or every three months if having unprotected sex with new or casual partners.
• Black African men and women should have routine HIV and STI screenings if engaging in unprotected sex with new or casual partners.
• Trans men and trans women who have sex with men should test for HIV and other STIs regularly, either annually or every three months if having unprotected sex with new or casual partners.

How to protect yourself from HIV:

• The most effective ways to protect against HIV are using condoms and taking PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). PrEP is a highly effective medication for those at risk of HIV, and when taken as directed, it helps prevent HIV transmission. For more information, click [here](opens link).
• PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a treatment that can prevent HIV if taken within 72 hours after potential exposure to the virus. It’s available through sexual health services.

For registered patients at the practice, our local sexual health clinic is:

Archway Sexual Health Clinic

681-689 Holloway Road

Archway

London

N19 5SE

Eating Disorders Awareness Week is a national campaign led by Beat, the UK’s eating disorder charity. It focuses on encouraging UK medical schools to introduce comprehensive eating disorder training.

Eating disorders can develop for many complex reasons. They occur when a person has a negative relationship with food and their body, which seriously affects their life.

These disorders may involve overeating or undereating, with a strong preoccupation with weight and body image, causing significant distress.

Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, sexuality, or background. The good news is that treatment is available, and it’s important to reach out for support and advice from Beat or a GP (you can submit an e-consultation).

Recovery is possible, though it’s a journey that looks different for everyone.

If you think you might lose your home, don't wait - reach out to the Housing Aid Team today. The sooner you contact us, the better chance we have to help you and prevent you from becoming homeless.

Great Mental Health Day is an annual event in the UK, typically observed on the last Friday of January. In 2025, for example, this would fall on Friday, January 31st. The day is part of the larger "Great Mental Health" campaign, which aims to raise awareness about mental health and promote positive mental well-being for everyone.

The goal of Great Mental Health Day is to encourage people to take action to improve their mental health, whether through self-care, connecting with others, or seeking support when needed. The day highlights the importance of mental health and encourages individuals, communities, and organizations to focus on mental well-being and engage in activities that promote it.

This day is especially important in light of the winter months, which can sometimes lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and other mental health challenges. Activities and events on this day often include raising awareness about mental health resources, promoting positive conversations about mental health, and supporting individuals who may be struggling.

For more information, you can visit Thrive LDN.

Cervical cancer claims the lives of 700 women annually in the UK, but this doesn’t have to be the case.

Cervical screening can detect the viruses that cause cervical cancer, and the NHS screening programme in England saves 5,000 lives each year.

The HPV vaccine also plays a crucial role in the fight against cervical cancer, offering significant protection against these harmful viruses.

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, led by the charity Jo’s Trust and running until 28 January, aims to raise awareness of cervical screening and the HPV vaccine.

Anyone eligible for cervical screening is strongly encouraged to attend their potentially life-saving appointment.

The screening involves taking a small sample of cells from the cervix to check for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) that could lead to cervical cancer if untreated. People aged 25 to 64 who are eligible are invited every three to five years, or more frequently if HPV or abnormal cells are found.

Currently, a third of those invited for screening do not attend. If you’ve received an invitation but haven’t yet booked an appointment, contact your GP now.

For more information on cervical screening, visit the NHS website.

To learn more about Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, visit the Cancer Research UK website.

STIQ Day has been launched to get people thinking about their sexual health and encourage more people to get regular sexual health checks.  No one likes to think they’ve caught a sexually transmitted infection (STI) but without a test you just can’t be sure.

This year STIQ Day takes place on 14th January, a date chosen because many common STIs such as Chlamydia can take two weeks to be detectable. If your festive season included unprotected sex then you should be thinking about getting tested now. Also with just one month to go before Valentine’s Day anyone hoping to enjoy the celebrations to the full should do so knowing that they are infection free and will not be putting someone else’s sexual health in danger.

More and more people in the UK are catching STIs and each year the infection rate is rising. Regardless of how old you are, if you’re gay or straight, if you’ve had one partner or 100 – just one unprotected sexual encounter could have put you at risk of catching an STI.

Even if you feel perfectly healthy you could still be carrying something. Often getting routinely tested is the only way that people can detect an infection – and the earlier they are tested and treated, the less chance there is of long-term damage being caused.

Getting a sexual health check is easy and shouldn’t be embarrassing or shameful; sex is a normal part of adult life so sexual health checks should be to. It’s a quick, simple process that not only puts your mind at rest but could protect your fertility or even save your life – or that of your partner

So use STIQ Day to get smart about your sexual health

Do you want to get checked? You can do this at your local GUM clinic. The nearest GUM clinic to Partnership Primary Care Centre is:

Archway Sexual Health Clinic

681-689 Holloway Rd

Archway,

London

N19 5SE

Telephone: 020 3317 5252

You can book your child an appointment for their flu vaccination at one of our community clinics. Please see the flyer for more information.

As the new year begins, many of us set out on a path of self-improvement and personal growth. One increasingly popular resolution is ‘Dry January’: a pledge to go alcohol-free for the entire month.

In England, one in five adults (roughly ten million people) regularly consume alcohol at levels that significantly raise their risk of harm, exceeding 14 units per week (around six pints of standard beer or lager, or a bottle and a half of wine). For many, January presents an ideal opportunity for a fresh start.

A month without alcohol brings many clear benefits, such as increased energy, better focus, and an uplifted mood, as well as potential savings. But the advantages extend beyond that. Research shows that taking a month off alcohol can lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, decrease diabetes risk, and even reduce cancer-related proteins in the blood.

By utilising resources like Alcohol Change UK’s free Try Dry app or subscribing to coaching emails, participants are twice as likely to stay alcohol-free throughout January compared to those who try to go it alone.

For more information on how to join, visit the Alcohol Change UK website.

You can find more tips and advice to help you cut down on alcohol on the NHS website.

Shape Up is a 12-week programme to support patients who are overweight or obese to improve their nutrition, increase their physical activity, and reach a healthier weight through food education and enjoyable exercise. 

Shape Up participants will have access to weekly evening sessions of 90 minutes that include body composition monitoring, nutrition education and lifestyle behaviour change, and physical activity and reduction of sedentary behaviour.

Additionally, participants will have access to a remote support network and 12 months of support and monitoring after the 12-week intervention.

Click here to download the self-referral card