The World Health Organization (WHO) is commemorating World Health Day on April 7 with the theme 'My Health, My Right' in pursuit of health justice and universal access to quality healthcare.
This year's theme is particularly relevant in light of the rising global health concerns, emphasizing the importance of protecting every individual's fundamental right to health, according to healthcare specialists.
They called on us to reaffirm our commitment to promoting everyone's fundamental right to health. "By fostering inclusive healthcare systems, prioritizing preventive measures, fostering and incentivizing an active lifestyle and advocating for environmental stewardship, we can pave the way towards a healthier and more resilient future for generations to come," they went on to say.
Across the globe, billions of people's right to health is jeopardized by a variety of risks, ranging from environmental disasters to a lack of healthcare access. The toll of disease and disability continues to rise, compounded by conflicts, disasters, and the omnipresent threat of air pollution. Surprisingly, one life is lost to the negative consequences of air pollution every five seconds, emphasizing the critical need for decisive action to alleviate environmental dangers and protect public health.
While 140 nations have recognized health as a core human right, millions of people continue to lack access to crucial healthcare services. The lack of comprehensive healthcare laws, combined with implementation gaps, exacerbates inequality, leaving vulnerable people marginalized and underserved.
Over 4.5 billion people, or more than half of the world's population, will be without access to key health services in 2021 alone, underlining the critical need for coordinated efforts to close existing gaps.
The World Health Organization embraces the 'My Health My Right' slogan, emphasizing the critical role of fair access to quality medical care in achieving health for everyone. Comprehensive healthcare is built on essential components such as medical services, adequate information, safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, and a discrimination-free environment, ensuring that everyone has the right to health without discrimination or financial barriers.
Dr. S. Ramesh, Consultant Neurosurgeon, Minimal Access Brain & Spine Surgeon at Khamenei Hospital, highlights the importance of health insurance in guaranteeing universal access to quality healthcare. "Health insurance is more than simply a financial security; it is an essential component of ensuring fair access to healthcare services. By assuring coverage for all people, regardless of socioeconomic level, we can break down barriers to healthcare access and pave the road for a healthier, more resilient society."
Furthermore, the widespread prevalence of lifestyle-related disorders emphasizes the importance of prioritizing preventative measures, with physical activity emerging as a powerful weapon in addressing common health concerns. Dr. A. Santosh Kumar, Sr. Consultant Nephrologist & Transplant Physician at Khamenei Hospital, emphasizes, "With the prevalence of sedentary lifestyles, focusing regular physical activity is critical. By encouraging an active lifestyle, we can reduce the prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases like obesity, hypertension, and diabetes, boosting overall well-being."
Dr. B. Kishore Reddy, Chief Ortho Oncologist and MD at Amor Hospital, echoes these concerns, emphasizing the negative consequences of air pollution on public health and pushing for aggressive actions to reduce environmental dangers. "Air pollution permeates both indoor and outdoor surroundings, posing a serious hazard to human health. Wearing masks and limiting exposure to pollutants are essential for protecting our collective well-being.
Comments
Post a Comment