World Health Day – April 7
World Health Day is observed every year on April 7 to highlight health as a human right. It reminds healthcare professionals, policymakers, families, and individuals that we all have a role in protecting our own health and the well-being of those around us.
As science continues to extend both the length and quality of life, access to those advancements remains unequal. Thousands of lives are still lost to preventable diseases simply because of where people live. Consistent access to affordable care means more people can live meaningful, productive, disease-free lives. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that out-of-pocket healthcare costs push about 100 million people into extreme poverty each year.
WHO uses World Health Day to release its annual World Health Statistics Report. The report shares global health data on topics ranging from newborn and child health to environmental risks, and tracks progress toward universal health coverage. Universal health coverage—everyone getting the care they need, when they need it—is WHO’s number one goal. World Health Day is a chance to recommit to that goal, recognize the challenges, and celebrate the health we have while working toward a healthier tomorrow for everyone.
How to observe #WorldHealthDay
Schedule a checkup with your primary care physician for yourself or a loved one, or both. Talk with your doctor about any health concerns and update them on your family health history. Learn your personal risk factors. Share healthy habits and tips with others, and use #WorldHealthDay on social media to show how you celebrate health.
History
The World Health Assembly created World Health Day in 1950 to build awareness around specific health themes. Each year, WHO highlights a different primary focus in connection with the day.
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