World Health Day

World Health Day History

World Health Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the different health issues prevalent across the globe. The day also highlights the importance of healthy living, disease prevention and exceptional health care systems in promoting overall well-being. It is an occasion to create deeper engagements between governments, healthcare professionals, non-profit organizations, and citizens to discuss and implement quality health strategies and policies.

World Health Day was first held by the WHO in 1950, following the Universal Health Coverage resolution adopted at the World Health Assembly in 1948. For Nigerians, this day holds profound significance, given the health challenges the nation grapples with, including malnutrition, malaria, HIV/AIDS, and most recently, COVID-19. Over the years, World Health Day has been a pivot point for Nigerian healthcare stakeholders to advocate for actionable policies, improved funding, and increased public education on major health issues the country faces.

In Nigeria, the observance of World Health Day often entails a range of activities conducted by different stakeholders. This includes public health seminars and workshops, awareness marches, media campaigns, and free medical screening camp-outs led by healthcare professionals. Furthermore, the government and non-profit organizations often use the day to launch health initiatives and programs. World Health Day is celebrated annually on April 7th, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global health trends and realities.

Facts about World Health Day

• The theme for World Health Day in 2024 was My health, my right. The theme in 2022 was Our Planet, Our Health.
• According to the World Health Organization, 58% of deaths in children under age five are caused by infectious diseases with pneumonia being the highest cause of those deaths.
• High maternal mortality rates are a significant health concern in Nigeria with lack of access to quality prenatal and antenatal care being the main reasons. In 2017, the country had an estimated maternal mortality rate of 917 deaths per 100,000 live births.
• Less than 5% of Nigerians have health insurance. The implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in 2005 has been slow and fraught with challenges.

In the News and Trending in Nigeria for World Health Day

Top things to do in Nigeria for World Health Day

• Get your blood pressure checked! High blood pressure is a silent killer known to massively increase the risk for heart disease and stroke.
• Play sports or exercise. Exercise raises the heart rate, burns calories, releases endorphins, and helps with leading a healthier lifestyle.
• Health symposiums and seminars: Attend health seminars or conventions where experts provide valuable information and latest research findings about different health issues. These events often take place at universities, hospitals, or conference centers.
• Read a book to learn more about Health in Nigeria:
  Health, State and Society in Kenya: Faces of Contact and Change - by Michael Gelfand
  Strength, Health and Power in Nigeria - by David J. Philips