World Health Day is marked every year on 7th April to raise awareness of global health issues. Established by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1950, each year the campaign focuses on a specific area of concern.
This year’s theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures”, focuses on maternal and newborn health. The campaign calls on governments and healthcare providers to step up efforts to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths, and to prioritise the longer-term health and wellbeing of women.
The statistics are sobering. Each year, nearly 300,000 women lose their lives due to complications in pregnancy or childbirth. More than 2 million babies die within the first month of life, and around 2 million more are stillborn. That’s roughly one preventable death every seven seconds.
While these issues are more common in lower-income countries, they are not limited to those regions. Even here in England, there is work to be done. Current trends show that four in five countries are off track to meet global targets for reducing maternal deaths by 2030. One in three countries will also fall short of targets for reducing newborn deaths.
It’s important to recognise that maternal and newborn health is affected by more than just complications during pregnancy and birth. Mental health, chronic health conditions, and access to family planning also play a major role. As science continues to improve both the length and quality of life, we must ensure that these advances are available to everyone, no matter where they live.
To make this possible, healthcare systems must not only improve, but also become affordable and accessible. According to WHO, around 100 million people are pushed into extreme poverty each year due to the cost of healthcare. Supporting maternal and newborn health also means supporting families with laws and policies that protect their rights and wellbeing.
World Health Day at Work: Promoting Well-being in the Workplace
World Health Day is also a great chance to promote health and wellbeing in the workplace. Since people spend so much of their lives at work, it’s important to make the workplace a healthier, more supportive environment – physically and mentally.
Five simple ways employers can get involved for World Health Day
- Offer a Mental Health Day
Provide staff with an extra day off during the year to take when they need time to reset. It doesn’t require a reason – it’s simply about looking after mental wellbeing. - Encourage a Balanced Diet
World Health Day is also about a balanced diet. While snacks and sweet treats are always appreciated, make sure healthy food options are also available to help maintain energy and focus. - Support Medical Appointments
People often put off seeing a doctor because it’s hard to fit in around work. Flexible working or time allowances can help staff prioritise their health without added stress. - Book First Aid Training
Helping staff gain basic first aid knowledge – through providers like the British Red Cross – is a great way to promote health awareness and preparedness. - Create a Healthy Work Environment
Encourage regular breaks and create a space that supports productivity and wellbeing. Breaks can help improve concentration, creativity, and engagement.