World Health Day 2025 – Date, History, Timeline and How to Observe

Each year April 7 is celebrated as the World Health Day by WHO to highlight a distinct theme related to health and wellness. World Health Day celebrates the unmatched value of good health on April 7 directed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

History of World Health Day

The history of this day is incomplete without discussing the history of the World Health Organization (WHO). In December 1945, countries like China and Brazil proposed the formation of a global organization of health, which would be an independent and all-inclusive organization.

Later in July 1946 in New York the formation of the World Health Organization was agreed upon. On April 7, 1948, the supposed constitution came into force with the coming together of 61 countries.

After the formation of WHO, the organization created the World Health Day as its first official task, which was initially observed on July 22, 1949. However, later the date was moved to April 7 in 1950 to commemorate the establishment of WHO.

Various themes have been selected on this day so far over the years selecting a distinct topic for every year. This day serves as a platform to draw attention to significant issues related to public health that affect the global community.

Several promotional programs were launched that were carried on during the occasion of World Health Day to raise awareness and educate people about the importance of health.

World Health Day Timeline

In 1945 at the UN conference held in San Francisco, a motion was passed to create an organization dedicated to discuss health topics

• In the year 1948, it was decided to set 7th April as the date to observe World Health Day to commemorate the formation of WHO
• In 1950, April 7 was officially celebrated as the first world health day
• In 1998, on the 50th anniversary of WHO the organization tackled the issue of safe motherhood

Traditions Of the Day

Ever since the World Health Day initiated, the issues related to health and the access to healthcare have been hugely discussed globally. Every year, the event talks about a different theme, which is highlighted through several programs like workshops, discussion forums and seminars etc. The day aims at spreading awareness on health issues of the poor and needy in regions that are less developed around the world. It also aims to remind us to be grateful for the good health we enjoy.

Some Facts About the Health Industry 

• 70% of healthcare and social workers are women
• 6.6 million children around the world die every year because of poor healthcare systems
• Over 800 women die every day due to pregnancy complications
• 2195 children across the globe die from diarrhoea

Why is World Health Day Important?

• World Health Day allows an opportunity for people to learn something new
• The selection of a new and different theme every year on the occasion of this day ensures that people learn something new every time
• World Health Organization selects a new topic as theme every year based on any current pressing health issue
• It brings people together
• The day reflects on the health of individuals