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Make this the summer you go smoke free. Quitting smoking isn't always easy, but it could be one of the most important decisions you ever make. If someone you loved smoked, you'd want them to have the support they needed to quit, the same is true for you. Smoking can seriously damage your lungs and increase the risk of long-term health conditions such as COPD and lung cancer. But despite the high risks, people continue to smoke because of stress, anxiety, trauma or simply beca

It's time to highlight lung health and encourage people to protect their lungs. Around one in five people in the UK will develop a lung condition during their lifetime. In Southend-on-Sea, lung conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), pneumonia and lung cancer are a particular concern, with rates higher than the national average. Lung conditions affect people of all ages. Some are preventable, while others are inherited or develop without a clear cause

Southend, like much of Essex, is experiencing temperatures much higher than we have been used to so far this year. With temperatures expected to peak this week, it is important that everyone takes steps to stay safe and well. A few simple changes can help keep you comfortable during hot weather: The hottest part of the day is usually between 11am and 3pm. During these hours, try to avoid strenuous physical activity such as exercising, gardening or carrying heavy loads. If pos

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, also known as Leukemia or CLL, is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. Yearly in the UK, 3,800 to 4,700 people, by population size, around 10–15 people in Southend may be affected annually. Signs and symptoms It usually develops slowly and is more common in people over the age of 40. There is currently no cure, but treatment can help manage the condition, extend life, and support a better quality of life. Symptoms can be subt

We all have times when we feel stressed, alone, low or overwhelmed. Mental Health Awareness Week is a chance to talk openly, take time to listen and remind people that help is available. Your Mind and Body Work Together As human beings, our minds and bodies are closely connected and what we feel physically can affect how we feel emotionally. For example: Poor sleep can affect mood. Stress can cause headaches or stomach pain. Long-term physical illness can affect confidence an

With GP surgeries and some services running reduced hours over the May bank holidays, it’s important to plan ahead and know where to go for help. Many common illnesses like; colds, sore throats, and minor injuries, can be treated at home. Keeping a simple health kit with pain relief, cold remedies, stomach treatments, first aid supplies, and a thermometer can help you manage symptoms quickly. Always follow medicine labels and ask a pharmacist if you’re unsure. Make sure to or

Today is World Hearing Day, a global campaign to raise awareness about hearing loss and the importance of ear and hearing care. Around 90 million children and young people aged 0–19 worldwide are affected by hearing loss. Many causes such as earwax build-up, untreated ear infections, or vaccine-preventable illnesses could be avoided or significantly reduced if detected and treated early. However, many children live with undiagnosed hearing loss for long periods of time. When

1 in 50 people in the UK and around 1.25 million people are living with a diagnosed eating disorder. Eating disorders affect the way a person thinks about food, eats, and feels about their body. For some people, food can become a way of coping during tough times. This might include bereavement, relationship breakdown, losing a job, housing difficulties, trauma, or extreme stress. Controlling food may feel like a way to manage overwhelming emotions or situations. Types of Eati

LGBT+ History Month is a time to celebrate progress and notice where change is still needed. One important area is healthcare as many LGBT+ people still face judgement, misunderstanding, or unequal treatment when seeking support. Why this matters Research shows that LGBT+ people often experience poorer health outcomes. Some report hearing anti-LGBT remarks or feeling dismissed. These experiences can damage confidence and stop people from asking for help again. From recent eng

Sexual abuse and sexual violence can be hard to talk about, many people feel shame or fear, so they stay silent. But silence can stop someone from getting the help they need and one should have to cope alone. What is Sexual Abuse or Sexual Violence? Sexual abuse or violence is any sexual act without consent that causes harm or distress. It can happen to anyone, at any age, and in any community. It is often done by someone the person knows or once trusted, not always a strange

Cervical Screening Week is a good time to talk about how cervical screening can help stop cervical cancer before it starts. Cervical screening is also called a smear test. It is not a test for cancer. The test checks for HPV (human papillomavirus). Some types of HPV can cause changes to the cells of the cervix. If these changes are found early, they can be treated and it can prevent cancer. In England, women and people with a cervix aged 25–64 are eligible for cervical screen

Cold and stormy weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly for older people, young children, and those with long-term health conditions. In Southend, there is currently an amber weather warning for ice and cold, so extra care is needed over the coming days. When temperatures fall, the risk of illnesses such as flu, chest infections, heart attacks and strokes increases. Cold homes can also worsen conditions like asthma, arthritis and high blood pressure. Keeping

Looking After Your Mental Health Over the Winter Break Winter can be a hard time for many people. Short days, cold weather, and changes to routine can affect how we feel. Getting support early can really help. It can prevent problems from getting worse and reduce the need for urgent care later on. There are simple things you can do to support your mental wellbeing over the winter break. Top Tips for Better Mental Wellbeing · Stay active: Moving your body can lift your m

Staying Well This Festive Season The festive period is a busy time, but it’s important to look after your health. Cold weather can make some health problems worse, especially for older people, young children, and anyone with a long-term condition. Keep warm, wear layers, and drink hot drinks. GP practices and many pharmacies have reduced opening hours over the bank holidays. This means you may not be able to get help as quickly as normal. If you take regular medicine, order y

In Southend, around 3% of people are estimated to be living with HIV. This is higher than the national average of 1%. A major issue is late diagnosis, which can harm health and increase the chance of passing HIV to others. HIV affects the immune system and makes it harder to fight infections. Without treatment, it can develop into AIDS, the most advanced stage. AIDS can be treated, but it is harder to manage. You can find information about symptoms on the NHS website. Health

The British Medical Association has announced five days of strike action by resident doctors. There will be a full walkout beginning at 07:00 on Friday 14 November 2025 and ending at 06:59 on Wednesday 19 November 2025. What can you do to help? ● If you need urgent health help , use NHS 111 online (www.111.nhs.uk) or call 111.Your symptoms will be assessed, and you will be provided with healthcare advice or an appointment for the most appropriate healthcare service for your

At this time of year, it's important to remind those who have served in the Armed Forces and Merchant Navy that healthcare support is available for them. Even if you only served for a few days. Non-mobilised reservists are also regarded as veterans. Let your GP know . This will help your GP to better understand your health, including any health problems related to your service. It will also help make sure you're referred to dedicated services for veterans, where appropriate

October is breast cancer awareness month, and it is time to get talking about a disease which is mostly prevalent in women but also...

Taking paracetamol during pregnancy has hit the news recently. Dr Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the Medicines & Healthcare...

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually on 10 September to raise awareness about how individuals and organisations can work...