Leader Sykes commemorates April 7th as World Health Day

House Minority Leader Emilia Strong Sykes (D-Akron) recognizes April 7th as World Health Day. Since taking effect in 1950, this day has been celebrated across the globe to create awareness for various health issues. Spanning from mental health, climate change, maternal and child care, and more, World Health Day provides an opportunity for countries to come together to focus on global health priorities. This year, the World Health Organization is pushing to eliminate health inequities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“World Health Day serves as a reminder for us to value our health and wellness by taking care of ourselves and each other,” said Leader Sykes. “This year, let’s show our gratitude to our nurses, doctors, and frontline healthcare workers who have worked tirelessly during the pandemic to keep us healthy.  Let’s bring awareness to critical health issues and inequities affecting vulnerable communities in our own countries and around the world and let’s destigmatize mental illness and prioritize mental health treatment.” 

According to the World Health Organization, 94% of all maternal deaths occur in countries with little to no health resources, around 20% of the world’s youth suffers from a mental health condition, and 70% of social and health workers are women. To learn more about global health statistics and World Health Day, visit https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-health-day/2021 .