World Health Day is a powerful medium to discuss important problems related to health and wellness, suggest solutions and spread awareness. On this special occasion, let us know what is the history, theme and importance of World Health Day. Every year on April 7, we commemorate World Health Day.
WORLD HEALTH DAY OBJECTIVE
Its goal is to raise people’s awareness of significant health-related issues. The World Health Organization (WHO), which was founded in 1948, is commemorated on this day. This year WHO is ready to celebrate this day with various methods .
WORLD HEALTH DAY HISTORY
After the Second World War, the world felt the need for unity in the field of health and with this thinking the World Health Organization (WHO) was established in 1948. World Health Day is celebrated every year on 7th April to increase awareness about health among the people. This decision was taken in the first meeting of WHO so that people around the world can know about important issues related to health.
This day is not just a date but it is a special occasion to remind us of the importance of good health. In 1950, the first World Health Day was observed. It was founded with the intention of raising public awareness of disease prevention, healthy living, and universal access to healthcare. This day also honours the establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO), which was formed in 1948.
What is the theme of World Health Day?
Every year a theme is set for the successful organization of any day. According to reports, the theme of World Health Day 2025 is – Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Future. Focusing on better health of mothers and newborn . It aims to emphasize the need for high-quality care during pregnancy and after birth, to reduce avoidable maternal and infant mortality.
World Health Day 2025 Key messages
Empower women: Improving maternal health depends on enhancing women’s rights to allow them to plan their lives and access vital health services.
Beyond survival: Investment is needed to tackle the long-term health consequences of women after childbirth.Prevent preventable deaths: Priority must be given to high-quality care in fragile settings, where most maternal and newborn deaths occur.
Raise awareness of maternal and newborn health issues.
Increase the health services available during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Mobilize resources to fund lifesaving interventions such as emergency obstetric care and specialized care for premature babies.
Eliminating preventable maternal and newborn deaths: The campaign focuses on reducing maternal and newborn mortality rates, which remain alarmingly high globally. It places a strong emphasis on fair access to high-quality care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum phase.
Improving women’s long-term health: More than survival, the initiative aims to address the long-term effects of childbirth on women’s health, including mental health challenges and non-communicable diseases.
Strengthening health care systems: It advocates for increased investment in health care infrastructure to ensure skilled birth attendants, emergency obstetric care and financial security for mothers.
Promoting mental health: The campaign integrates mental health support into routine maternity care to combat perinatal mental illnesses.
Eliminating violence against mothers: It calls for zero tolerance towards violence against pregnant women and mothers, and ensuring their safety and respect in health care facilities.
Empowering women and families: The campaign seeks to enable women to make knowledgeable decisions regarding their health and well-being by disseminating vital information about pregnancy and reproductive health.
Every year has a special theme, which focuses on the major health issues of that time. Some important themes are as follows:
Year Theme
2024 “My Health, My Right”
2023 “Health for All”
2022 “Our Planet, Our Health”
2021 “Building a Fairer, Healthier World”
2020 “Support Nurses and Midwives”
According to the theme, WHO and different countries determine their policies, awareness campaigns and plans.
Important things necessary for health
We should consistently form the following healthy habits if we want to live a healthy life:
Taking a balanced diet:
Eat green vegetables, fruits, pulses and grains.
Avoid junk food and excessive fried items.
Drink enough water throughout the day.
Regular exercise and yoga
Engage in physical activity for at least half an hour every day.
Yoga and meditation also improve mental health.
Living a stress-free life
Take meditation, music, and good sleep to avoid stress.
Spend time with family and friends.
Get regular health checkups
Get blood pressure, sugar, cholesterol, BMI and other tests done from time to time.
If you experience any symptoms of a disease, see a doctor right away.
Prevention of addiction
Avoid alcohol, smoking and other intoxicants, as they cause heart disease, cancer and other serious diseases.
What is the significance of World Health Day?
World Health Day emphasizes the significance of raising awareness of global health issues. This day, celebrated every year on 7 April, marks the establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. The day promotes discussion on major health issues, encourages healthy living and reminds governments and people to prioritize accessible healthcare for all.
How is World Health Day celebrated?
Special programs are organized by many government and non-government organizations in India on this day.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare runs health campaigns in various states.
Free checkups and vaccinations are provided in government hospitals.
Events are organized at global level
WHO and other health organizations run various health awareness campaigns.
New health policies and schemes are implemented.
Health conferences, symposia and workshops etc. are organized internationally.
Activities related to World Health Day are done in schools and colleges.
Health-related seminars, poster competitions, essay writing and debate competitions are organized in schools and colleges.
Students are given important tips related to health and hygiene.
Special initiatives are taken in hospitals and health centers.
Free health checkup camps are organized.
Free vaccination and counselling services are provided to the people.
Doctors and health experts organize health awareness sessions.
Media and social media campaigns
Health information is given through radio, TV and newspapers.
FAQ: World Health Day 2025
1. What is the purpose of World Health Day?
World Health Day is celebrated every year on April 7th to raise awareness about significant health issues affecting people worldwide. It aims to promote healthy living, disease prevention, and access to quality healthcare for all. The day also commemorates the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948.
2. What is the theme of World Health Day 2025?
The theme for Health Day 2025 is “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Future.” This year focuses on improving maternal and newborn health, emphasizing quality care during pregnancy and after birth. The aim is to reduce preventable maternal and infant deaths globally and ensure a healthy start to life.
3. Why is maternal and newborn health the focus for 2025?
Maternal and newborn health remains a critical global issue, with many preventable deaths still occurring, especially in fragile settings. The campaign seeks to ensure safe pregnancies, skilled care during childbirth, and proper postnatal care. It also addresses women’s long-term health after childbirth and emphasizes mental health and protection from violence.
4. How is World Health Day celebrated globally?
A Day is marked by various activities worldwide. WHO and other health organizations run health awareness campaigns, organize conferences, and implement new health policies. Schools and colleges hold seminars, poster-making, essay writing, and debate competitions. Free health checkup camps, vaccination drives, and health counselling sessions are organized in hospitals and community centers.
5. What are the key messages of World Health Day 2025?
The 2025 campaign highlights several key messages:
- Empowering women to make informed health choices.
- Investing in long-term health care and addressing postnatal health impacts.
- Eliminating preventable maternal and newborn deaths.
- Strengthening healthcare systems with skilled professionals and emergency care.
- Promoting mental health and ensuring zero tolerance for violence against mothers.
6. How did World Health Day originate?
After World War II, there was a global call for unified action in health, leading to the establishment of WHO in 1948. The first Health Day was observed in 1950, aimed at raising public awareness about health issues and promoting better healthcare worldwide.
7. What have been some recent themes of World Health Day?
A Day focuses on pressing health concerns through its annual themes. Recent themes include:
- 2024: “My Health, My Right”
- 2023: “Health for All”
- 2022: “Our Planet, Our Health”
- 2021: “Building a Fairer, Healthier World”
- 2020: “Support Nurses and Midwives” These themes guide health initiatives and campaigns globally.
8. What healthy habits can individuals adopt daily?
To maintain a healthy lifestyle:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, pulses, and grains.
- Avoid junk food and stay hydrated.
- Exercise regularly and practice yoga or meditation.
- Manage stress through relaxation, hobbies, and quality sleep.
- Get regular health checkups and screenings.
- Avoid harmful addictions like alcohol and tobacco.
9. What is the significance of World Health Day?
Health Day serves as a reminder of the importance of health and accessible healthcare for all. It encourages governments and individuals to prioritize health-related initiatives, promote healthy living, and raise awareness about global health challenges and solutions.
10. How can the media and social platforms contribute to World Health Day?
Media plays a crucial role in spreading health awareness. On this Day, TV, radio, newspapers, and social media platforms share valuable health tips, information about events, and messages from health experts. These campaigns help educate people about disease prevention, maternal and newborn care, and healthy living practices.
