Description

History of World Health Day

In 1945, a group of renowned figures gathered in San Francisco, united by a shared belief: that global collaboration at the time was insufficient to control the spread of dangerous diseases. As a result, they planned the creation of an organization to oversee global health. In 1946, this vision became reality with the establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO).

In 1947, the WHO launched its first global disease-tracking service, which transmitted information to other countries via telex. On April 7, 1948, the WHO Constitution officially came into force, and since then, April 7 has been celebrated each year as World Health Day.

Guided by the directives of its member states, the WHO began its early decades with a strong focus on fighting widespread diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, syphilis, smallpox, and leprosy.

Each year, the World Health Organization examines various diseases and treatments, striving to improve global health. In 2025, the WHO is launching a year-long campaign titled:
“Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.”
This initiative urges governments and the global health community to intensify efforts to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths and prioritize the long-term health and well-being of women.

At Danone, our mission is to "bring health through food to as many people as possible"—a commitment that began over a century ago. With years of expertise in health and nutrition, we are uniquely positioned to support consumers and patients in enhancing their well-being through nutritious and sustainable food and beverage choices.
Our products are consumed daily by millions of people around the world, and we firmly believe that better nutrition leads to better health for everyone.