Today, the 7th of April, it is World Health Day.
This day is observed every year on the 7th of April, because of the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organisation in 1948, nearly 80 years ago.
This year’s official theme is “Together for health. Stand with science.”
The focus is on how science, trust, and international cooperation help protect health. WHO says the campaign is meant to rebuild trust in evidence and encourage science-based decisions in everyday life and public policy.
From an Occupational therapy perspective, it is important to note the significant contribution occupational therapists make to society’s health, with one of their main goals being the prevention of disease and the promotion of health, well-being, and quality of life through engagement and participation in meaningful occupations.
Depending on the individual’s needs, occupational therapists may support skill development or maintenance, sensory regulation, environmental adaptations, the use of assistive devices, or the establishment of healthy daily routines, among other strategies, to promote health, well-being, and overall quality of life.
Prevention is essential to health promotion. By supporting healthy daily habits such as sleep, exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress management, Occupational Therapy can help prevent or reduce many potential health-related difficulties and improve overall well-being.
Through Ayres’ Sensory Integration practice, OTs promote health by supporting individuals in regulating sensory input, participating in daily routines, and engaging more successfully in meaningful occupations.
One tool that can support individuals to promote their health is Sensory Ladders®.
“Sensory Ladders® are active co-production; intentional and mindful creation of supporting strategies to enhance and enrich participation in everyday life.” – Kath Smith
If you would like to learn more about this self-regulation tool, you can click on “Learn more”:
Sensory Ladders | For Health
An important aspect the World Health Organisation highlights in this campaign is the need to call on scientists and health professionals to present evidence clearly, as science only helps if people can use it. Research matters, but so does making it understandable and accessible to all. WHO’s campaign calls on scientists and health professionals to explain evidence clearly.
At ASI Wise and The Sensory Project, we are passionate about making the world of Ayres’ Sensory Integration (ASI®) more accessible, inclusive and empowering for everyone. Whether you are a parent, teacher, carer, or therapist, our evidence-informed, practical tools like Sensory Ladders® offer a relatable and compassionate way to understand what is happening inside and how we can support regulation, resilience and participation in everyday life, and therefore support health in general.
You can check here ASI-Wise Research Corner, where different interesting research articles are published regularly to share evidence in an accessible way:
Research Corner
You can find more information and resources about the World Health Day 2026 campaign on the World Health Organisation (WHO) website:
