World Organ Donation Day is celebrated annually on August 13th.

This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of organ donation and encouraging people to register as donors. It also honors the selfless contribution of organ donors and their families.

Here’s why it’s important:

  • Saves Lives:

    Organ donation offers a second chance at life for individuals suffering from organ failure.
  • Reduces Waiting Lists:

    A significant shortage of organ donors exists worldwide, and increasing awareness can help reduce these waiting lists.
  • Provides Hope:

    Organ donation can improve the quality of life for many people, not just through transplants, but also through tissue donation.
  • Debunks Myths:

    The day is also used to dispel common misconceptions about organ donation and encourage open conversations about the topic, according to Dafodil Hospitals.
  • Honors Donors and Families:
    It’s a day to express gratitude to those who have made the selfless decision to donate their organs.

 

Invest in breastfeeding, invest in the future

World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated every year in the first week of August, championed by WHO, UNICEF, Ministries of Health and civil society partners around the globe. It’s a time to recognize breastfeeding as a powerful foundation for lifelong health, development, and equity.

Under the banner of WHO’s ongoing Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures campaign, World Breastfeeding Week will shine a particular spotlight on the ongoing support women and babies need from the healthcare system through their breastfeeding journey.

This means ensuring every mother has access to the support and information she needs to breastfeed as long as she wishes to do so – by investing in skilled breastfeeding counselling, enforcing the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, and creating environments—at home, in healthcare, and at work—that support and empower women.

This isn’t just about doing what’s right—it’s also smart economics.

Breastfeeding delivers a hopeful future not only for children, but for societies. It reduces healthcare costs, boosts cognitive development, strengthens economies, and sets children up with healthy beginnings.

Source: World Health Organization (WHO)