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Blue square graphic promoting World No Tobacco Day, featuring text and the WHO logo. The date "31 MAY" is highlighted.
World Health Organisation | CC BY-SA 4.0

World No Tobacco Day, May 31 - Health Risks & Countering Addiction

Despite known health risks, smoking remains a top preventable threat. Traditional cigarette use has dropped, but e-cigarettes, vapes, & nicotine pouches are fueling addiction. Established by WHO in 1987, this day raises awareness about tobacco dangers & industry practices. The 2026 campaign, “Unmask the Appeal,” exposes how flashy designs & sweet flavours lure youth into nicotine addiction.

World No Tobacco Day, May 31 - Health Risks & Countering Addiction
A hand in a suit is pushing away a pack of cigarettes offered by another hand, symbolizing refusal or resistance to smoking.
Pixabay | Mohamed_hassan

Smoking - The World's Greatest Preventable Health Risk

Tobacco claims 8 million lives annually. Despite the well-known adverse health effects, people continue to take up the habit. The use of traditional cigarettes has significantly declined, but the popularity of e-cigarettes has resulted in rising addiction rates. The industry uses colourful designs and sweet flavours to target young people who are nine times more likely to vape than adults.

Smoking - The World's Greatest Preventable Health Risk
A person in a turquoise shirt is holding their midsection with both hands, expressing discomfort or concern about their abdomen.
Unsplash | Towfiqu barbhuiya

Global Obesity Epidemic

The global epidemic of obesity is one of today’s most neglected public health issues. In 2022, the WHO estimated that more than 2.5 billion adults were overweight. If immediate action is not taken, millions will suffer from serious health disorders. Over half of the world's adults who are overweight or obese live in just eight countries - China, India, the U.S., Brazil, Russia, Mexico, Indonesia, and Egypt.

Global Obesity Epidemic
Pink and white logo which in large letters reads 'Alcohol Free'
Twice - JYP Entertainment | CC BY-SA 4.0

Dry January - An Alcohol-Free Start To The Year

Dry January is a public health initiative encouraging abstinence from alcohol for the month of January. Originating in the UK, it has now spread globally. The aim is to reshape the public's relationship with alcohol and promote healthier lifestyles. Healthcare professionals highlight benefits such as improved sleep, weight loss, lower blood pressure, and a healthier mind.

Dry January - An Alcohol-Free Start To The Year
Black and white letters arranged on a textured surface spelling "MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS."
Unsplash | Marcel Strauß

World Mental Health Day – October 10

World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental well-being. Around the world, mental health organisations and social justice activists help to raise awareness, advocate for mental health issues, and fight against the social stigma associated with them. The theme for 2025 is “Access to services – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies.”

World Mental Health Day – October 10