World Health Day 2025: Observed on April 7 every year, this year World Health Day falls on Monday, with the theme – Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures. This day is not just another day but a global reminder of the importance of your health. World Health Day sheds some light on the urgent health issues affecting people globally. An initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO), this day is celebrated with different themes every year. With the increasing awareness of diseases, mental illness, and the importance of precautions and necessary care, health is currently receiving global attention.
Why is April 7 observed as World Health Day?
It is celebrated on April 7 as it marks the founding anniversary of WHO in 1948, the same day. The date was chosen to highlight the importance of global health and draw attention to the major health issues affecting people worldwide. By commemorating WHO’s foundation, the day serves to launch health awareness campaigns and encourage people to improve health globally.
What is the aim of World Health Day?
The day aims to promote awareness and encourage collective action to improve global health, with different themes every year. These themes focus on universal healthcare, mental well-being, or the impacts of climate change on health. It is to seek the attention of concerned government authorities, communities, and individuals to build a healthier world.
Who discovered World Health Day?
In 1948, WHO held the first World Health Assembly (WHA) and decided to mark April 7 as World Health Day, with effect from 1950. In 1948, WHA had 55 member states, and 53 member states attended the Assembly.
Childbirth/Death Rate and Maternal Mortality
According to WHO’s report, the maternal mortality rate is exceptionally high. About 260,000 women died during and following pregnancy and childbirth in 2023. Of all maternal deaths, approximately 92% occurred in low and lower-middle-income countries in 2023, most of which could have been prevented.
In 2023, 4.8 million children under 5 died globally. In 2023, the under-5 mortality rate was 37 deaths per 1000 live births, down from 94 deaths per 1000 live births in 1990.
Why is nutrition important for an early-born/newborn child ?
Nutrition is crucial for an early-born or newborn child, as it affects growth, brain development, immunity, various organs, and the overall health of the baby. It provides the energy and nutrients needed to build bones, muscles, and organs. Nutrients like iron and protein are essential for neurological and cognitive development. Nutrition also helps to strengthen a baby’s immune system, which further reduces the risk of any infection or illness.
Thus, World Health Day holds immense significance to ensure global well-being. The theme for this year signifies the need to focus on maternal and newborn health. It tends to seek the attention of the government and health community to prioritise maternal health and prevent maternal deaths.
