At the first World Health Assembly in 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) decided to designate a day as “World Health Day.” As a result, the first World Health Day was celebrated on April 7, 1950. Since then, nations across the globe have annually observed World Health Day on April 7. Each year, organizers select a theme and guide events throughout the year, raising awareness on critical health matters. This year's theme was centered on fostering a society focused on well-being, protecting human and planet health. World Health Day aims to direct global attention to pressing health issues affecting humanity. On this day, health awareness is emphasized, urging governments to formulate healthy policies. The celebration of World Health Day highlights the importance of prioritizing our well-being, recognizing that efficient management of all aspects of life is contingent upon our health.
For some, good health is the absence of illness; for others, it involves following a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. In reality, true health is a combination of factors. According to WHO, it refers to a ‘state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.’ World Health Day commemorates the establishment of WHO and serves as a platform to globally address major health issues that continue to concern us all. Governments and non-governmental organizations worldwide, interested in public health matters, recognize and actively participate in World Health Day.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed one of the most serious global health threats in recent history, challenging public health like never before. The pandemic has caused devastating economic and social disruptions by undercutting recent health advancements, increasing poverty, inducing food insecurity, and upsetting entire health systems. World Health Day promotes reflection on such circumstances and calls for action to transform the world into a healthier and more humane environment.
The vision of a healthier world is not an unattainable dream but an achievable goal through evidence-based health education and increased awareness of health issues. This dream can materialize when various organizations - including schools, colleges, communities, health centers, volunteer groups, and both private and public entities - come together to share information and collectively work toward this goal.
Since 1980, QUAD A (a non-profit, physician founded and led global accreditation organization) has worked with thousands of healthcare facilities to standardize and improve the quality of health care they provide – believing that patient safety should always come first. To learn more about QUAD A, their accreditation process, and why it’s so important to seek out accredited facilities when making healthcare related decisions, visit www.quada.org.
