World Health Day: Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures
Every year on April 7, the world observes World Health Day, a global effort to raise awareness of diseases and health issues, the importance of preventative care, and good health. It draws attention to important health issues and inspires action for a coordinated effort to address them. It highlights the need for international cooperation in addressing health issues and serves as a reminder that good health is critical to our overall well-being.
History of the World Health Organization
The First Health Assembly established World Health Day in 1948, and it has been celebrated since 1950. The WHO was established to address important global health issues without interference from the government. To commemorate its creation and mission, World Health Day was declared on April 7, in order to raise public awareness and promote international action on major health issues each year. The campaign has influenced local action, changed policies, and enhanced lives on several continents over the years.
The Theme of World Health Day 2025
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is calling on governments and healthcare providers across the globe to work towards eliminating preventable maternal and newborn deaths as part of its 2025 theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” which highlights the critical role that maternal and newborn health plays in creating strong families and communities.
According to WHO, about 300,000 women die during pregnancy or childbirth and over two million babies die in their first month of life and another two million are stillborn. Hence, a need for this year-long campaign on maternal and newborn health.
This year’s theme highlights the importance of mothers’ and babies’ health, emphasizing that their well-being is the foundation of healthy societies. The WHO also emphasizes the need to prioritize the long-term health of women by promoting better access to prenatal care, safe childbirth, and improved postnatal care.
The Significance of Celebrating World Health Day
World Health Day is a reminder that health comprises many factors like physical, mental, and emotional well-being and not merely the absence of disease. The day is significant for many reasons which include the following:
a. Increases awareness
World Health Day is the perfect opportunity to educate people on health issues by bringing crucial health issues to the forefront.
b. Drives policy
World Health Day influences health reforms and policies at the national and international levels.
c. Encourages equity
Today’s celebration encourages all communities to have equitable access to health services.
d. Promotes action
Individuals, governments, and institutions are urged to make decisions regarding health and healthy living.
Celebrating health and wellness
As we celebrate World Health Day 2025, let’s consider the importance of healthy mothers and babies in creating a healthier future for the next generations. World Health Day is celebrated with a variety of events and activities, including public lectures, health campaigns, and community outreach programs.
Governments, health organizations, and communities around the world use this day to launch new health initiatives and raise public awareness, all of which contribute to a collective goal of improving public health and ensuring better health outcomes for everyone.
How to Celebrate World Health Day
There are various ways individuals can be part of the celebration. These include:
i. Organise health campaigns
Health campaigns can be organized in schools and health centers across the country. This will be a great avenue to teach students the importance of health. Health centers can discuss topics teaching pregnant women and mothers the importance of child vaccination.
ii. Health screenings
Today is the perfect opportunity to organize free medical screenings. People will be screened and advised on how to properly take care of their health. Also, medical experts can give health talks.
iii. Promote physical activity
Engaging in physical activity or exercise promotes good health. People should be taught the importance of doing exercise. Taking a long walk or a race today helps individuals to keep fit.
iv. Encourage people to eat healthy
On World Health Day is it important for individuals to understand the importance of eating healthy food and not relying mostly on junk. People should eat more vegetables etc. This can be done through posting on social media pages etc.
Conclusion
World Health Day is a reminder to prioritize our health and well-being. This year’s theme focuses on maternal and newborn health, it is a call to improve access to healthcare to reduce maternal and infant death rates in our society.
