The Republic of Cyprus, with coordinated actions, both within the European Union and in international forums in which it participates, carries out numerous and multidimensional actions to create prosperous healthy societies without violating the ecological limits, states in a message for the World Health Day the Minister of Health Michalis Hadjipandela.
He notes that April 7 has been established by the World Health Organization as World Health Day and is celebrated every year with a different theme. According to him, the choice of the date is not random, as it marks the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization, of which the Republic of Cyprus is a member, in 1948. The theme of this year's World Health Day is "Our Planet, Our Health ”.
For 2 consecutive years, the Minister adds, the world is plagued by the pandemic COVID-19 and the World Health Organization in a proactive mood, has chosen the topic to remind that in addition to the pandemic, there are other potential threats on a global scale that must be addressed through collective action.
"The WHO estimates that every year around the world, more than 13 million deaths are due to environmental causes and could have been avoided. "Environmental pollution through the air we breathe and the water and food we consume, affects our health with usually medium- and long-term adverse consequences," said the Minister.
He notes that the Republic of Cyprus, through coordinated actions, both within the European Union and in international forums in which it participates, carries out numerous and multidimensional actions to create prosperous healthy societies without violating the ecological boundaries.
As he adds, according to the "One Health" approach, there is a connection and dependence between human health and the environment. "The need to focus on creating healthy societies on a healthy planet is becoming increasingly apparent. "The climate crisis is perhaps the greatest threat to human health, with multiple adverse effects on the health of many of our fellow human beings."
"I address each citizen individually and I ask you, as we promote a healthy lifestyle, while preserving our environment. Individual choices and social behaviors affect our environment and our health.
Let us all imagine again a world where fresh air, healthy water and safe food are available to everyone. I'm sure we want to pass this planet on to future generations. It is the necessary springboard for Public Health ", the Minister concludes.