orld Health Day 2024: History, significance, theme and more

 World Health Day 2024: History, significance, theme and more

World Health Day is celebrated every year on April 7. Since its inception at the First Health Assembly in 1948 and coming into effect in 1950, the day has aimed to spread awareness about various health issues and highlight areas of concern such as mental health, maternal and child care, and climate change.

Let's take a look closer at the history, significance and theme of World Health Day 2024

History of World Health Day

World Health Day marks the long-lasting legacy of the International Health Initiative. Announced first by the World Health Organization in 1950 after the conclusion of World War II, there was a need for a body to oversee health issues. The WHO was established to address important health issues and work independently without the interference of any government. April 7th was announced as the World Health Day, to honour the founding of the global health body.

Know the significance of the World Health Day

The day underscores the importance of primary health care facilities, proper sanitation habits, and availability of clean water. It also highlights the health challenges and focuses on the health facilities that should be provided to a human being.

Earlier, the WHO addressed and worked towards eradicating major health concerns such as smallpox, TB, and malaria to commemorate the day. Initiatives and campaigns were launched to fight these diseases.

The theme of World Health Day 2024

The themes of World Health Day have changed several times to highlight new priorities and major health issues. From addressing the importance of mental health using the theme in 2017 to highlighting the link between climate change and health in 2022, the day has been a standing platform to address all health-related issues in this changing world. The theme for the World Health Day 2024 is ‘My Health, My Right.’

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World Health Day 2024: 5 Golden Rules To Follow For Good Health

World Health Day marks the anniversary of the founding of WHO in 1948

World Health Day is observed on 7th April every year globally. This annual event draws attention to a specific health topic that affects people all over the world. This day marks the anniversary of the founding of WHO in 1948.

The theme for World Health Day 2024 is 'My health, my right.' According to the World Health Organisation, this theme aims to promote the right of everyone, everywhere to have access to health services, education and information. It also focuses on promoting access to drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, decent working and environmental conditions and freedom from discrimination to all sections of society.

1. Nourish your body

You need food to produce energy. Not just that, your body needs the right nutrition to perform various functions, for optimal growth and to prevent the risk of several health conditions.

Focus on consuming unprocessed, whole foods that can help provide all essential nutrients to your body like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts. Also, focus on proper hydration and eliminating processed foods from your diet as much as possible.

2. Exercise well

Physical inactivity is a common risk factor for several health conditions. From maintaining a healthy weight to improving your heart health, regular exercise plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health in more ways than one.

3. Prioritise sleep

Ensuring a healthy sleep cycle is more important than you think. In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy sleep cycle. However, for your overall well-being, follow practices that can help you sleep better.

4. Get regular check-ups

As you know, prevention is better than cure. Regular check-ups can help prevent and diagnose health conditions timely. Routine check-ups can help you and your family prevent many diseases.

5. Pay attention to your mental health

Your mental health is the foundation of your overall well-being. It's very important to manage and assess your emotional health on a daily basis. Also, do not hesitate to seek help from an expert whenever required.

This World Health Day, make these 5 promises to yourself and say hello to better health.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

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When is World Health Day 2024? Know about its theme, history, significance, and interesting facts

World Health Day is celebrated every year on April 7. It serves as an opportunity to draw worldwide attention to a subject of major importance to global health. Each year, the World Health Organisation (WHO) selects a theme that highlights a priority area of concern for global health. It is an important occasion to raise awareness about global health issues and promote collective action to improve health outcomes worldwide. With the theme of 'My Health, My Right' in 2024, the day centres on the essential human right to create a healthier and more equitable world for everyone. Here's all you need to know about the World Health Day 2024.

World Health Day 2024: Theme

WHO has selected 'My Health, My Right' as the subject of World Health Day 2024 in honour of the organisation's 76th anniversary. This theme centres on the essential human right to obtain high-quality healthcare, education, and information. It emphasises the need for collective action at all levels – from individuals and communities to governments and international organisations – to build healthier societies and promote well-being for all.

World Health Day 2024: History

World Health Day was first observed in 1950 and has been celebrated annually on April 7 ever since. It was established by the WHO to mark the organisation's founding anniversary and to raise awareness about pressing health issues facing the world. Over the years, World Health Day has played a crucial role in mobilising action to address various health challenges and promote healthier lifestyles.

World Health Day 2024: Significance

World Health Day serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it raises awareness about key health issues that affect people worldwide, such as infectious diseases, mental health, maternal and child health, and non-communicable diseases. Secondly, it provides an opportunity for governments, organisations, and communities to come together and take collective action to address these health challenges. Thirdly, it emphasises the importance of investing in health promotion, disease prevention, and healthcare systems strengthening to achieve better health outcomes for all.

World Health Day 2024: Interesting Facts

World Health Day is one of the eight official global health campaigns marked by the WHO, along with World Tuberculosis Day, World Immunisation Week, World Malaria Day, World No Tobacco Day, World Blood Donor Day, World AIDS Day, and World Hepatitis Day.

The choice of April 7 as World Health Day is significant because it commemorates the date on which the WHO was founded in 1948.

Each year, World Health Day focuses on a different health-related theme, reflecting the current global health priorities and challenges.

World Health Day events and activities take place in countries around the world, including health campaigns, seminars, conferences, and public awareness initiatives.

In recent years, World Health Day has addressed a wide range of topics, including mental health, universal health coverage, antimicrobial resistance, and the impact of climate change on health.

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