International Women

International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8th every year, not on the 23rd. The date of March 8th was chosen to commemorate a women's protest that took place in Russia in 1917.

• On this day, thousands of women in St. Petersburg, then known as Petrograd, went on strike to demand better working conditions and political rights.
• This strike was a key event in the Russian Revolution and it led to women being granted the right to vote.
• Since then, March 8th has been recognized as International Women's Day and it is celebrated around the world to promote gender equality and women's rights.
• The date has been recognized by the United Nations since 1975, and each year, a theme is chosen to focus on a particular aspect of women's rights and gender equality.

You can participate in the International Day of Action for Women's Health by supporting women's health organizations, attending local events or webinars, sharing informative content on social media, advocating for gender-responsive policies, and engaging in conversations to raise awareness about women's health issues. Your actions can contribute to advancing women's healthcare rights and equality.

The key messages of Women's Health Week revolve around empowering women to take control of their well-being:

• Prioritize Health: Encourage women to make their health a top priority at every stage of life.
• Regular Check-ups: Stress the importance of scheduling and attending regular health check-ups and screenings.
• Physical Activity: Promote physical activity as a means of maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• Healthy Eating: Advocate for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Mental Health: Raise awareness about the significance of mental health and the need to seek help when necessary.
• Preventive Care: Highlight the benefits of preventive care, vaccinations, and early detection of health issues.
• Avoid Risky Behaviors: Encourage avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and unsafe sexual practices.
• Health Education: Promote access to reliable health information and resources.
• Support Systems: Emphasize the importance of building a strong support network, including healthcare providers and loved ones.
• Self-Care: Encourage self-care practices like stress management, relaxation, and getting adequate sleep.