World Health Day
April 7 2023
Every year on April 7th, World Health Day is celebrated to raise awareness about health and wellbeing issues. This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) will observe its 75th anniversary on World Health Day, marking 75 years of improving public health and working towards achieving Health For All.
The History of World Health Day
In 1948, countries around the world came together and founded WHO to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable. WHO’s 75th anniversary year is an opportunity to look back at public health successes that have improved quality of life during the last seven decades, and to motivate action to tackle the health challenges of today and tomorrow.
The Theme for World Health Day 2023
This year’s theme for World Health Day is “Building a Fairer, Healthier World for All.” The theme is a call to action for global leaders to commit to building a fairer and healthier world, by improving healthcare access and reducing health inequalities. The future of health is about ensuring that everyone, everywhere, has access to the full range of quality health services, and the right to achieve the highest attainable level of health.
Celebrating World Health Day
To celebrate World Health Day, people participate in activities that promote health and wellbeing. At work, you can celebrate by organizing health screenings, health talks, or health fairs. You can also encourage employees to take part in physical activities such as walks or runs.
The Importance of World Health Day
WHO’s 75th anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in improving global health, but also to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done. WHO’s work over the past decades has served people around the world to build a healthier future. Universal health coverage and primary healthcare are important priorities that are at the heart of WHO’s mission to achieve Health For All.
As we mark WHO’s 75th anniversary, let’s celebrate the progress made in improving public health and work together to tackle the health challenges of today and tomorrow. Let’s commit to building a fairer and healthier world, where everyone, everywhere, has access to quality healthcare. Join WHO on a journey to achieve Health For All.
ALL IN SCIENCE IN 5 EP 84
HEALTH FOR ALL
Watch as WHO's Chief Scientist, Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, explores the future of health on the 75th anniversary of the World Health Organization. Discover the latest innovations and challenges towards achieving Health For All in Science in 5 Episode #84
Key Messages
Health For All envisions good health for all people in a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world.
The right to health is a basic human right, and 30% of the global population lacks access to essential health services.
Universal health coverage (UHC) provides financial protection and access to quality essential services, lifting people out of poverty and promoting the well-being of families and communities.
To achieve Health For All, we need access to quality health services, skilled health workers, and policy-makers committed to investing in UHC.
Evidence shows that a primary health care approach is the most effective and cost-effective way to bring services for health and well-being closer to people.
COVID-19 has set back every country's journey to Health For All, making every country's journey more urgent.
Now is the time for leaders to take action and for civil society to hold them accountable.
Progress needs to be accelerated to meet health-related SDGs.
