World Anaesthesia Day: Every year, October 16 is observed as World Anaesthesia Day, which commemorates the birth of anaesthesia on 16 October 1846. On this day, the doctors at Massachusetts General Hospital had demonstrated the use of ether for the first time on any patient. The successful use of anaesthesia, proved that patients could undergo surgical procedures without bearing the pain associated with it.
World Anaesthesia Day: Why it is celebrated on October 16?
Notably, even after 170 years of the first anaesthetic procedure, and the countless breakthroughs in the healthcare; according to an estimate, nearly 5 billion people still lack access to safe anaesthesia practices. In such scenario, to observe awareness days like World Anaesthesia Day becomes crucial. This day serves as powerful medium to educate the general public, reinforce the achievements of the global anaesthesia community, and mobilise political will.
This day ranks as one of the most significant events in the history of medicine. It highlights the contribution of William TG Morton, an American dentist and physician, who successfully demonstrated diethyl ether anesthesia with his team on October 16, 1846, at Massachusetts General Hospital.
World Anaesthesia Day: Theme
Every year, the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists, a professional association focuses on a different aspect of anaesthesia care. Their motive remains to highlight the varied, diverse, and critical roles that anaesthesiologists play in patient wellbeing. This year ‘Anaesthesiology in Health Emergencies’ has been chosen as the theme for World Anaesthesia Day.
How is World Anaesthesia Day celebrated?
Health communities and medical fraternities across the globe celebrate World Anaesthesia Day in various ways:
Seminars, workshops, and lectures on anaesthesia practices, patient safety, and innovations in the field are organised.
Public awareness campaigns on the importance of anaesthesia in surgeries and critical care.
Social media campaigns under hashtags like #WorldAnaesthesiaDay to spread awareness.
Medical colleges conduct academic events, quiz competitions, and poster presentations related to anaesthesiology.
Guest lectures by senior anaesthesiologists or researchers in the field.
Groups like the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA) host virtual events, panel discussions, or webinars featuring experts worldwide.
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