World Health Day 2025 Urges Action on Maternal and Newborn Health Amid Rising Death Rates
April 7, 2025
World Health Day 2025, observed on April 7, centered on the theme 'Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures', emphasizing the urgent need to enhance maternal and newborn health.
Established at the World Health Assembly in 1948, World Health Day has been celebrated since 1950 to raise awareness and advocate for health policies.
Seven transformative maternal health programs have been implemented, significantly increasing institutional deliveries and benefiting millions of women through cash transfer schemes.
Dr. Rahul Singhal highlights the importance of comprehensive care for mothers and newborns, advocating for regular check-ups and mental health support during and after pregnancy.
Dr. Haresh H Manglani emphasizes the necessity of early detection and intervention in bone cancers, particularly in young patients, to enhance treatment outcomes.
A recent press statement revealed a troubling rise in maternal and newborn deaths, underscoring the need for immediate action to address these issues.
Key national policies aim to reduce maternal deaths to 70 per 100,000 live births and newborn deaths to 12 per 1,000 by 2030, reflecting a commitment to improving maternal health.
Experts, including Dr. Sudheer Penchala and Dr. Balaraju Naidu, stress the significance of early life experiences on brain development, advocating for structured routines and proper nutrition.
Safe practices during pregnancy include avoiding strenuous exercises and combining yoga with balanced nutrition and adequate rest to support maternal health.
Healthcare systems are urged to address not only childbirth complications but also related issues like malnutrition and mental health to improve overall maternal care.
India has made notable progress in disease elimination, achieving a 69% reduction in malaria cases and the elimination of diseases like trachoma and kala-azar.
The Ordem dos Psicólogos calls for political parties to prioritize childhood policies in their electoral programs, emphasizing the need for a national investment plan for early childhood.
Summary based on 24 sources
Get a daily email with more World News stories
Sources

Times of India • Apr 7, 2025
World Health Day 2025: Date, history, theme and why it matters
The Indian Express • Apr 7, 2025
World Health Day 2025: Know the date, history, theme, significance and more
Hindustan Times • Apr 7, 2025
World Health Day 2025: What is the theme of 2025? Know history, significance and more
Business Standard • Apr 3, 2025
World Health Day 2025: Theme, significance, history, messages and more