World Health Day

It is truly said that “Health is Wealth”. Without a healthy functioning body, even the simplest tasks can seem like a huge burden. We all acknowledge the importance of a healthy mind and body but how many of us take a step in making ourselves better? Every year 7th April is observed as World Health Day and is celebrated across the world. The major reason behind commemorating this day is to draw the world’s attention towards global health. Since 1950, the World Health Organization (WHO) along with other organizations has been sponsoring to celebrate this day to raise awareness of global health.

But what is the significance of this? What is there to celebrate? Why do I believe that this day holds any importance at all? While such questions pop in your head, think of what privileges you hold. Is healthcare a privilege you possess? Now think of the masses who spend their nights on the road, starve to death and are uneducated. Can these people afford healthcare? Do these people even know about health policies? What happens to this poverty-stricken majority? The target behind World Health Day is to spread a word about equal healthcare facilities throughout the world and shatter any myth regarding health issues.

Every year WHO picks up a different theme that is either prevalent or simply to educate people all around the world about an issue that is a potential threat. Themes such as Move for health (2002), Safe motherhood (1998), Road Safety (2004), Urbanization and health (2010) and Global Polio Eradication (1995) have been taken up over the last decade. In the last few years, themes such as Depression: Let’s Talk (2017) and Universal Health Coverage: everyone, everywhere (2019) were highlighted.

World Health Day 2020 aims to shed light on the role played by the nurses and midwives who have been providing access to health care worldwide. It also intends to strengthen the workforce making them more methodical and systematic. On 7th April, a ‘State of the World’s Nursing Report 2020’ will be launched to advance the contributions made by the nurses catering to the healthcare needs of all. This day will embark upon the tireless working of the nursing workforce and show them the gratitude and respect that they have earned.

So, when you think of how to contribute and do your part each year on World Health Day, here’s how it can make a difference: Read, learn and share! Read about different themes organized by WHO, educate yourself and share the information with everyone around you. You should also encourage overall hygiene and cleanliness.

Footnote

World Health Day is about people. It’s the day you celebrate health with millions across the world. It’s the day you understand and acknowledge the importance of equal healthcare for all. Moreover, you appreciate the doctors and nurses striving to provide the world with the best healthcare facility there is.