World Health Day History
World Health Day seeks to draw attention to a major global health concern each year. The day attempts to increase awareness about the major health concern and the repercussions of this concern while providing countries and organizations with materials and ideas as how to best handle these global health concerns.
The World Health Organization (WHO) was founded on April 7, 1948 to better address the needs of global health issues. Every year, the WHO Assembly meets in Geneva, Switzerland to choose a major global health concern and promote it through World Health Day in the hopes of increasing awareness and preventing more cases. This holiday is celebrated annually on April 7.
World Health Day Facts & Quotes
- The theme for World Health Day in 2017 was Depression: let’s talk. The World Health Awareness Day’s campaign this year is touted to focus on getting more people across the world dealing with depression to come forward and seek help.
- According to the Centers for Disease Control 31% of Americans have high blood pressure. High blood pressure costs the nation $47.5 billion annually in direct medical expenses and $3.5 billion each year in lost productivity.
- According to the American Diabetes Association, 2011 data showed 25.8 million children and adults with diabetes. This is 8.3% of the US population.
- According to the World Health Organization, 58% of deaths in children under age five are caused by infectious diseases with Pneumonia the largest cause of those deaths.
Good health adds life to years
– World Health Organization (WHO) 2012 slogan.
World Health Day Top Events and Things to Do
- Get your blood pressure checked! High blood pressure is a silent killer known to massively increase the risk for heart disease and stroke.
- Reduce salt and alcohol consumption. Alcohol consumption in large amounts has been associated with an increase in heart diseases, brain damage, cancers and liver diseases. Salt consumption in large amounts has been associated with heart diseases, decreased brain functions and kidneyproblems.
- Play sports or exercise. Exercise raises the heart rate, burns calories, releases endorphins and helps lead a healthier lifestyle to combat diseases.
- Book an appointment for your annual check up.
- Learn to recognize the symptoms of diabetes. See your doctor and discuss your risk of diabetes.
