World Health Day 2023: Cultivating Healthy Beginnings for a Brighter Future

World Health Day, observed annually on April 7, serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing global health challenges we face. Established in 1948 by the World Health Organization (WHO), this day aims to raise awareness about vital health issues and mobilize efforts to tackle them effectively. In 2025, the theme for World Health Day is “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures,” emphasizing the need to minimize preventable deaths among mothers and newborns by implementing initiatives that prioritize their survival and long-term health.

The WHO, along with its partners, is committed to sharing valuable information aimed at supporting healthy pregnancies, safe childbirth, and improved postnatal care. Ensuring the survival and thriving of every woman and baby is an essential goal that requires immediate attention. According to current estimates, nearly 300,000 women die annually due to complications related to pregnancy or childbirth. Additionally, over 2 million babies die within their first month of life, and approximately 2 million are stillborn, translating to a heartbreaking statistic of one preventable death every seven seconds.

Based on existing trends, a staggering four out of five countries are not on track to meet maternal survival targets set for 2030, and one in three nations will likely fail to reduce newborn deaths effectively. To combat these alarming statistics, it is crucial for women and families to have access to high-quality healthcare that addresses both physical and emotional needs before, during, and after childbirth.

Health systems must adapt to tackle the myriad health issues affecting maternal and newborn health, which include:

• Direct obstetric complications
• Mental health conditions
• Noncommunicable diseases
• Family planning services

Moreover, women and families require supportive laws and policies that protect their health and rights. The main objectives of this year’s World Health Day campaign include:

1. Raising awareness about gaps in maternal and newborn survival and the importance of prioritizing women’s long-term well-being.
2. Advocating for effective investments to enhance the health of women and babies.
3. Encouraging collaborative efforts to support both parents and healthcare professionals who provide essential care.
4. Disseminating useful health information related to pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period.

According to a report from the United Nations Development Program, life expectancy at birth has shown significant improvement, increasing from 49.5 years in 1960 to 51.5 years in 1978. Following the Islamic Revolution, the World Bank reports that Iran’s total life expectancy has risen by an impressive 25 years, reaching over 76 years today.

The enhancement of health services in Iran has contributed to a shift in disease patterns, subsequently affecting mortality rates associated with infectious diseases. Current statistics reveal that the overall mortality rate in Iran has decreased from 13 deaths per 1,000 births during the period of 1970-1978 to only five deaths today. The infant mortality rate has also seen drastic reductions, plummeting from 13,000 deaths to just 18 deaths in recent years.

In March 2024, Iran hosted an international congress focused on family health, highlighting the critical role of mothers in ensuring the well-being of families.

World Physical Activity Day

Another significant event in April is World Physical Activity Day, celebrated on April 6. This day underscores the importance of physical activity and its positive impacts on both physical and mental health.

According to the WHO, regular physical activity plays a vital role in:

• Preventing diseases
• Boosting daily energy
• Enhancing sleep quality
• Maintaining cardiovascular health

Simple actions, such as taking a daily walk, opting for stairs instead of elevators, or stretching at work, can significantly benefit overall health. These activities not only strengthen the immune system and muscles but also improve flexibility and reduce stress levels.

Moreover, physical activity is closely linked to mental health, as it triggers the release of endorphins—hormones that help alleviate anxiety and depression while enhancing mood and self-confidence. Regular exercise serves as a natural stress reliever, making it an effective and low-cost approach to preventing and managing obesity and various chronic diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

People who engage in physical activity are not only healthier but also experience greater happiness and sociability. On the contrary, inactivity and prolonged sitting can lead to chronic health issues. Every small movement contributes significantly to overall health and well-being.