Upcoming Public Health Events, Nationally and Globally, October-December, 2021

Summary

The numerous international days, weeks and months are observed globally in the field of health to raise awareness of specific health matters of public health concern. The following national and global health awareness days will be celebrated in the next quarter October-December, 2021.

World Breast Cancer Awareness Month October, 1-30

In 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685 000 deaths globally. As of the end of 2020, there were 7.8 million women alive who were diagnosed with breast cancer in the past 5 years, making it the world’s most prevalent cancer. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM), an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer. This year’s BCAM theme focuses on “Teaming up” with one another because no one should fight cancer alone.

World Mental Health Day October, 10

Many people with mental illness do not receive the treatment that they deserve and together with their families and care givers continue to experience stigma and discrimination. World Mental Health Day 2021 will be commemorated on 10, October with the theme: ‘Mental Health in an Unequal World’ and focuses on the issues that perpetuate mental health inequality locally and glob- ally. The overall objective of the day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. The Day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.

Uganda National Field Epidemiology Conference October, 29

Scheduled to take place on the 29 October, 2021, the conference is organised by Ministry of Health Uganda in collaboration with Makerere University School of Public Health and US CDC. During the conference, the advanced field epidemiology fellows will showcase their experiences and projects on investigation and response to public health emergencies, evaluation of surveillance systems, analysis of surveillance data, cost analysis of outbreaks and quality improvement approaches to health service delivery in the country. The 2021, 7th Uganda National Field Epidemiology Conference whose theme is ‘Fighting at the frontlines – Field Epidemiology Fellows at the helm of the COVID-19 response’ will be virtually held.

World AIDS Day December, 1st

World AIDS Day is marked on 1 December each year and has been an annual event since 1988. People around the world raise awareness about HIV/ AIDS and come together to show support for people living with HIV, commemorate those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses and celebrate victories of increased access to treatment and prevention services. The day is an opportunity for private and public stake holders to spread awareness about the status of the pandemic and encourage progress in HIV/ AIDS prevention, treatment and care globally. This year’s World AIDS Day will be celebrated with the theme: “Global Solidarity, Shared Responsibility”

Universal Health Coverage Day, December 12

Universal Health Coverage Day is observed annually on December 12 with the aim of ensuring that people around the world get the quality health services they need without financial hardship. To end the crisis and build a safer and healthier future, we must invest in health systems that protect every one.

The event will be commemorated with the theme:

“Leave No One’s Health Behind: Invest in health systems for all”