World Health Days are annual observances designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about specific health issues and promote action to address global health challenges. Each World Health Day focuses on a particular theme or topic of importance to public health.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which aims to raise awareness of people with mental or behavioral health issues and to reduce stigma. May is also ALS Awareness Month. ALS stands for Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which is the most common form of motor neuron disease.
May:
- May 1: International Labour Day
- May 3: World Asthma Day
- May 5: World Hand Hygiene Day
- May 6: World Ankylosing Spondylitis Day
- May 6: International No Diet Day
- May 8: World Thalassemia Day
- May 8: World Ovarian Cancer Day
- May 10: World Lupus Day
- May 12: International Nurses Day
- May 15: International Kangaroo Care Awareness
- May 15: International Day of Families
- May 17: World Hypertension Day
- May 18: World AIDS Vaccine Day
- May 19: World Inflammatory Bowel Disease Day
- May 22: World Preeclampsia Day
- May 25: World Thyroid Day
- May 29: World Digestive Health Day
- May 30: World Multiple Sclerosis Day
- May 31: World No Tobacco Day
Celebrating healthcare and medical-related days is an effective means of raising public awareness about important health topics and encouraging healthy lifestyles. The effort to encourage healthy behaviors and raise public understanding of important health issues should continue throughout the year. Building a healthier society is everyone’s job, from individuals to communities to governments. Observing these days serves as a timely reminder to prioritize health and to honor the efforts of those who work in the medical field.