Every year on April 7, people around the globe celebrate World Health Day to raise awareness about critical health issues. Organised by the World Health Organization (WHO), this day reminds us that everyone deserves access to healthcare, no matter where they live. In 2025, the theme focuses on ‘Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures.’ This theme focuses on maternal and newborn health. This theme highlights the importance of healthy pregnancies, safe births, and long-term well-being for mothers and babies worldwide. Read ahead to know more about the theme, history and its significance.
History of World Health Day
The day was incepted in the first World Health Assembly held in Switzerland in 1948. At the event, WHO was established with the mission to promote health all around the globe and prevent disease. The date, April 7, was decided and it began in 1950. The First World Health Day focused on ‘Know Your Health Services.’ Since then, the day has been celebrated to draw attention to crucial health challenges and support through international cooperation.
Theme for 2025: Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures
World Health Day, observed annually on 7th April, marks the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization in 1948.
This year’s theme focuses on the health and well-being of mothers & babies as the foundation of healthy families and communities, helping ensure… pic.twitter.com/QciHRUgPzW
The theme for 2025 emphasises maternal and newborn health as a cornerstone of healthy families and communities. This year, WHO aims to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths by advocating for better healthcare access, education, and support systems. The campaign also calls for investments in women's long-term health beyond pregnancy. It stresses empowering women and girls by improving their rights and access to healthcare services worldwide.
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5 Key Goals for World Health Day
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In 2025, the day focuses on maternal and newborn health reflecting the urgent need to address healthcare disparities in low-income regions and humanitarian crisis areas. It aims to help the marginalised region and category. While the world has advanced maternal care facilities, millions of women lack access to quality postnatal care despite facing lasting health challenges after childbirth.
To help those and raise awareness, WHO aims to reinvigorate efforts to provide high-quality care for mothers and babies everywhere. It has 5 urgent health goals for 2025 that require fast action.
1. Save More Mothers and Babies
According to WHO, in 2020, about 1,000 women in Europe died from pregnancy/childbirth problems. This was worse than 2019. While numbers improved after the pandemic, we must do better.
2. Make Healthcare Affordable for Mothers
Every pregnant woman deserves medical care. Money, laws, or background shouldn’t stop them. No mother should go into debt just to stay healthy.
3. Help Midwives and Doctors
Midwives deliver most babies and care for mothers. They need:
- Better pay
- Safe workplaces
- Proper training
- Good care for mothers starts with supporting these workers.
4. Care for Mothers’ Mental Health
Many moms struggle with anxiety or depression during/after pregnancy. But few get help. Doctors should:
- Check mental health at every visit
- Offer counseling
- Treat it as seriously as physical health
5. Stop Violence Against Mothers
Harming pregnant women or new moms is never okay. We must:
- Make strict laws against abuse
- Help victims safely report violence
- Train doctors to spot signs of abuse
Significance of World Health Day
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Every year, the World Health Day serves several key purposes:
- Raising Awareness: It highlights pressing health issues. This year it was maternal mortality, newborn care, mental health, or chronic diseases.
- Advocacy: The day urges governments and organisations to prioritise health policies that benefit vulnerable populations.
- Community Engagement: Events like health campaigns, lectures, workshops, and outreach programs are organised globally to educate people about preventive care and healthy living.
Conclusion
April 7 is not just a date on the calendar as it’s a global wake-up call. The maternal health issue has been affecting millions and by working together, we can build better communities where all the facilities get better around us. World Health Day 2025 reminds us that healthy beginnings lead to hopeful futures. By prioritising maternal and newborn health, we can build stronger families and communities while ensuring every mother and baby has access to quality care.