In her statement, Associate Professor Dr. Nurhan Meydan said: “On the occasion of April 7 World Health Day, I would like to draw attention to the importance of the right to health. Each year, this special day provides an important opportunity to remind global health priorities and raise awareness. The 2026 theme, ‘equitable and accessible health services for everyone,’ presents a fundamental approach for a sustainable and fair health system. Health is not only the absence of disease and disability but a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Therefore, health services should be provided not only in a curative manner but also with a preventive, promotive, and equitable approach. When evaluated globally, despite significant progress in health, inequalities remain a serious issue. It is known that billions of people still face difficulties in accessing basic health services, and factors such as wars, climate change, and poverty have negative impacts on health. Scientific evidence also clearly shows that income level, education, living conditions, and environmental factors directly affect individuals’ health status.”

Associate Professor Dr. Nurhan Meydan added: “Health is a fundamental human right, and ensuring equal access to this right is our shared responsibility.”

Noting that Türkiye has made significant progress in access to healthcare services in recent years, Dr. Meydan continued: “Thanks to improvements in healthcare infrastructure and universal health insurance, wide segments of society have been able to benefit from health services. However, regional disparities, socioeconomic inequalities, and an aging population require continuous strengthening of the healthcare system. In this context, expanding preventive health services, strengthening early diagnosis and treatment of chronic diseases, and increasing health literacy are essential. Protecting and improving health is not only the responsibility of healthcare institutions but also of individuals and society. Adopting healthy lifestyle behaviors such as balanced and adequate nutrition, regular physical activity, avoiding harmful habits, regular health check-ups, and adherence to vaccination programs is of great importance. In conclusion, health is a fundamental human right, and ensuring equal access to this right is a shared responsibility. On the occasion of this meaningful day, all segments of society are encouraged to take conscious steps toward healthy living, while decision-makers are urged to develop sustainable and inclusive health policies. Acting with a shared sense of responsibility toward the goal of equitable and accessible health services for everyone is of great importance.”