The World Health Organization defined health as the ability to live a healthy life and prevent or control disease. The World Health Organization’s constitution entered into force on April 7, 1948. The definition of health shifted from the absence of disease to the ability to adapt, self-manage, and be resilient to environmental and social factors. The authors of the constitution were aware that a healthy life requires much more than a healthy body. Therefore, it is vital to consider the broader picture of health.
The definition of good health is often ambiguous. Some people attribute it to family history and luck, while others place more emphasis on personal habits and behaviors. While there is no one universally agreed-upon definition of health, most Canadians agree that it is largely influenced by one’s lifestyle and the choices they make. For instance, how much we eat, how much exercise we do, and how stress we experience all play a role in our physical health.
There are three basic types of health. One can say that health is the absence of disease or inactivity. A third definition of health calls for equilibrium between the physical and social environment. Essentially, health is a state of balance. People who are healthy and well-balanced live longer and are less likely to contract or develop disease. And, in a sense, there is no perfect health. And, no single person will experience complete wellness every day.
A perfect definition of health means the absence of disease, but not everything is so simple. While the absence of disease is the most ideal state, we should be aware of the reality of many chronic diseases that affect older adults. Vaccination of older adults and prevention of influenza is crucial, as is early and effective treatment of disease. Ultimately, health is an individual’s state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. The World Health Organization defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being.
What does health mean to you? How does a person feel about themselves? For many, health means different things to different people. Physical health is a defining quality of life, while mental health can be elusive. A person who is physically strong and resistant to infection, yet suffers from depression or other mental illnesses is considered unhealthy. However, the lack of mental health is a common sign of a person’s unsoundness.
People are born with different types of genes. Some of those genes have unusual patterns that may make you more susceptible to health problems. Genetics are not the only factor affecting your health, as environmental factors also affect your health. Environmental factors such as pollution and germs can trigger illness in individuals with high genetic risk. So, how can we improve the health of our society? One way is by implementing better policies and practices. So, don’t delay any longer!
The WHO defines health as complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and disease free. According to the 2017 State Health Assessment, the factors that determine health contribute to 20% of it. Other 45% of your health is determined by the social determinants of health. People’s social conditions and environment affect their health. For example, poor nutrition increases the risk of diabetes and heart disease. So, it is crucial to address social determinants of health.