The World Health Day isn't just about a reminder to eat veggies or start morning walk — it's a wake-up call.
A big, loud SOS! Our health — both as individuals and as a nation — is currently in crisis mode. Undeniably, we love our masala chai and midnight biryanis, it's time to take a pause for looking at the bigger picture. So what’s the emergency we are talking about? Let’s understand.
Take a deep breath first. Now try to think — is that air fresh or filled with troublemakers? India is home to 14 of the 20 most polluted cities globally. The smog has gradually become part of our skyline. What's the consequences? More people are suffering from chronic respiratory issues. It’s not only about wearing masks — it's about reclaiming our right to breathe in clean air.
What We Can Do: Plant more trees in your community, reduce vehicle use, and ask for better policies.
We live in a community (or country) where one hand holds a smartphone while the other hand goes into mouth with samosa. Sedentary lifestyles to poor diets, along with high stress levels are gradually causing a surge in diseases like diabetes, heart conditions, and hypertension. The most scariest part? Many people don’t even know they’re unwell until it’s too late.
What We Can Do: Walk or run at least half an hour a day. Check your health parameters once in 4-6 months. Focus on eating home-cooked meals at least 5 days a week.
Anxiety, depression, and burnout are gradually becoming common — especially among young Indians juggling studies, jobs, and skyhigh expectations. Social media comparisons and the race to succeed worsen the condition.
What We Can Do: Let’s normalise talking. Remember, physical and mental health are equally important. Simply, have open conversations with friends and family members.
In many rural areas, access to basic healthcare is still a dream. Due to shortage of doctors and medical equipment, people travel miles for a simple check-up.
What We Can Do: Support NGOs and people working in rural health. Volunteer for awareness drives, or even help spread verified information in regional languages.
From pesticide-containing vegetables to fast food that's all fat without much nutrition. Our food is gradually becoming a major threat. Additionally, the rising use of unregulated supplements, processed junk materials, and sugary drinks, and we’re regularly feeding the problem, quite literally!
What We Can Do: Understand what you are eating and where your food comes from. Always support local and organic farmers. On weekends, we can easily swap that deep-fried snack for roasted peanuts.
Which water are you drinking daily? Is it really safe and clean? Water, the most important element of our survival is slowly deteriorating both qualitatively and quantitatively. Water-borne diseases are rising globally.
What We Can Do: Always drink water from water purifier and stop wastage of water. Never keep a tap open unnecessarily.
On this World Health Day, let’s think beyond hashtags. Let’s push for cleaner air, better water, accessible healthcare, better food, and mental health awareness. It’s high time we put our health first. Remember, health is not only a personal goal. It’s a collective mission.
