WORLD HEALTH DAY 2022: OUR PLANET, OUR HEALTH
Aug 19, 2022
In the context of epidemics, environmental pollution as well as cancers, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases are increasing. On World Health Day 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) will focus global attention on the necessary actions to ensure
Aug 19, 2022
World Health Day 2022: Our planet, our health
In the context of epidemics, environmental pollution as well as cancers, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases are increasing. On World Health Day 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) will focus global attention on the necessary actions to ensure the health of the planet and people, and promote a social constructivist movement that focuses on happiness.
WHO estimates that more than 13 million deaths worldwide each year are due to preventable environmental causes. This includes the climate crisis as the biggest health threat that humanity has to face. The climate crisis is also a health crisis. More than 90% of people are breathing polluted air which causes bad effects on health from burning fossil fuels. In addition, global warming increases mosquito-borne diseases more widely and faster than ever before. Extreme weather events, land degradation, and water scarcity are causing people to migrate and affecting their health. On the other hand, pollution and plastic waste are found everywhere from the ocean bottom to the high mountains, and have entered the human food chain. Unhealthy processed food and beverage production systems are driving waves of obesity, increasing cancer and cardiovascular disease, and generating a third of greenhouse gas emissions across the globe.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us the importance of science and highlighted inequality in the world. At the same time, the pandemic has exposed weaknesses in all areas of society and emphasized on the urgency of making social commitments to achieve equality in health now and for future generations.
What can you do to protect our planet and health?
- Share the message: Our planet, our health.
- Raise your voice and take action against climate change to protect your health.
- Take action, and inspire others in the following ways.
+ Walk or cycle at least 1 day/week or choose public transport to move.
+ Use clean energy sources; Turn off the lights when not in the room.
+ Buy fresh items from local producers, and avoid processed foods and beverages.
+ Tobacco is a killer and causes environmental pollution, so please stop smoking.
+ Buy less plastic; Use recycled bags.
Thuy Tien – HCM City Center for Disease Control
Source:
Aug 19, 2022
