Every life saved. Every disease prevented. Every child who grows up healthy. It all starts with science. On World Health Day 2026, WHO celebrates the discoveries, the public health research network, and the communities — all standing behind the evidence that protects us all. Because when we stand together, science gives us something no one can take away: a future we can believe in.

7 April marks the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. On World Health Day 2026, WHO unites and mobilizes the world under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science” celebrating the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants, and the planet. The year‑long campaign spotlights both scientific achievements and the multilateral cooperation needed to turn evidence into action. Two global events will anchor the 2026 campaign: the One Health Summit (5–7 April) and the Global Forum of WHO Collaborating Centres (7–9 April).

On International School Meals Day (12 March), it is important to recognize the essential role school feeding programmes play in advancing education, nutrition, and long‑term development. The World Food Programme supports governments in delivering school meals to 466 million children worldwide, ensuring they receive the nourishment required to learn and succeed. These programmes strengthen attendance, improve concentration, and represent one of the most cost‑effective investments in human capital, particularly in contexts where children are most at risk.

Polio once paralyzed hundreds of thousands of children every year, striking fear into families across the world. Thanks to global vaccination efforts, cases have fallen by 99.9% since 1988. But polio is not gone yet.

In this episode of the podcast Science in 5, we speak with Dr. Jamal Ahmad about why polio eradication still matters, how close the world truly is to ending this disease forever, and what's at stake if we don't finish the job.

Polio spreads easily, respects no borders, and remains a threat as long as it exists anywhere. With only a few cases left in two countries, the tools, knowledge, and partnerships are stronger than ever—but sustained political commitment and global cooperation are essential.

Ending polio would mean no child is ever paralyzed by this disease again—and billions saved for health systems worldwide.

Overweight and obesity, characterized by excessive fat accumulation posing risks to health, are on the rise worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2019 an estimated 5 million deaths from noncommunicable diseases were linked to overweight and obesity. Obesity represents one side of the “double burden of malnutrition”, with more obese people than underweight in every region except South-East Asia. Once largely confined to high‑income countries, obesity has now become a major public health concern in many middle‑income nations, as well. Let's act on obesity to ensure a healthy life for all.

This World Wildlife Day (3 March), we celebrate the vital role that medicinal and aromatic plants play in human health, heritage, and livelihoods. One in five people relies on wild plants, algae and fungi for their food and income. From cancer treatments to traditional remedies, these plants are lifesaving resources—yet around 9% face extinction due to habitat loss, overharvesting, and climate change. Protecting them means safeguarding both nature and our shared future.

In a stark reminder of how much of the world’s cancer burden is within our power to change, new World Health Organization (WHO) findings expose the enormous role preventable risks play in shaping global health. The new analysis reveals that up to 40% of global cancer cases could be prevented, estimating 37% of new cases in 2022, or 7.1 million, linked to preventable causes. Tobacco is the leading culprit (15%), followed by infections (10%) and alcohol (3%). Lung, stomach, and cervical cancers comprised nearly half of preventable cases, with smoking and air pollution primarily contributing to lung cancer. Meanwhile, in Gaza, thousands of patients continue to endure worsening illnesses and untreated pain.

The World Health Organisation Academy creates learner-centered, culturally and contextually adapted courses that equip health and care workers, especially in low- and middle-income countries, with the skills and knowledge they need to meet evolving healthcare challenges.

Pulses possess exceptional nutritional attributes, and their cultivation provides immense environmental benefits. Yet, per capita consumption has declined in many countries, both developed and developing. Dietary shifts, changing consumer preferences, and a lingering perception in some contexts that pulses are “humble” or traditional foods have contributed to this downward trend. This World Pulses Day (10 February), let’s challenge the misconceptions that overshadow these crops and celebrate the true excellence of pulses in making nutritious diets accessible to all.

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a diverse group of conditions that still affect one billion people worldwide, primarily in vulnerable and underserved communities. Yet they are preventable, treatable, and can be eliminated. On World NTD Day (30 January), we must answer the call to unite, act, and eliminate NTDs, building a safer world for everyone. Let us celebrate country-led successes, champion innovation in diagnostics and treatment, and secure the leadership and resources needed to ensure NTD elimination remains one of the most achievable and equitable goals in global health.

In PAHO’s virtual reality laboratory, you can explore every room from sample reception to, and interact with the equipment posters and key bio safety elements that represent a resilient laboratory system.

Did you know that you can save three lives in just ten minutes with the gift of your blood? What do countries need to do to have safe blood donation systems ? WHO’s Dr. Yuyun Maryuningsih explains all you need to know to donate blood in Science in 5. 

Leaders from around the world meeting at the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly have adopted a political declaration to combat noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health challenges through a fully integrated approach. The document is the first such declaration addressing NCDs and mental health together, and marks a unique opportunity to accelerate global progress with a set of specific global targets for 2030. Mental health is increasingly recognized as a universal human right and an essential foundation of human development. Learn more about mental health and how to sustain it.

Resilient communities are fundamental to preventing, and responding to, epidemics and pandemics. Our best defense lies not only in science, but also in strong local health systems, well-supported frontline health workers, and local leaders who are prepared to guide their communities through crisis. This International Day of Epidemic Preparedness (27 December) let’s help all communities build a strong foundation for both prevention and recovery. Let’s stop epidemics in their tracks.

Since 2000, nations have advanced toward universal health coverage, more care, and less financial strain. Yet billions still lack essential services, and millions are pushed deeper into poverty by out-of-pocket costs, largely for medicines. A new study from the World Health Organization-World Bank warns: without bold investment, by 2030 many will still face hardship. Health is a right, but for too many, it remains a distant promise.