The Genetics Of Health
Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a state of full physical, emotional and social well being and not just the absence of sickness and disease. Different definitions have been employed over the years for various purposes. Some consider it to be an overall condition while others view it as the state of being fit with no limitations. Others still may consider it to be the condition one is in when they experience health problems. Regardless, of what health state you are currently in, there are steps you can take to improve your health and the health of those around you.
The best way to ensure good health is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Developed countries have high life expectancy because they practice a healthy lifestyle. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a reduction in stress. These measures ensure that a person is physically well, emotionally stable, and has optimal brain function. These factors promote a sense of well being that is conducive to a happy and productive life.
A balance between prevention and treatment is essential to overall health. An effective prevention program focuses on lowering the risks of diseases and contributes to wellness. Treatments help reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent additional illness from developing. Through a combination of prevention and treatments, illnesses can be managed and the risks of disease or injury substantially decreased.
Environmental factors also play a significant role in contributing to good health and wellness. Studies have shown that genetics can contribute to both the risk of developing certain types of diseases and the persistence of existing ones. Studies have also shown a strong link between smoking and mental illness. It stands to reason that if someone in your family has been diagnosed with a mental illness, there is a strong likelihood that you could as well.
Genetics play a crucial role in determining the persistence of chronic physical illnesses and diseases, but they do not cause them. Lack of physical exercise, poor nutrition, exposure to toxins, and a sedentary lifestyle are contributing factors to a person’s lack of fitness and to their susceptibility to physical illness. Mental illness is determined by a combination of environmental circumstances including genetics, emotional problems, and social factors such as support for particular groups, beliefs, and practices. Public health experts believe that people living in unhealthy environments, those that smoke, drink, and use drugs are at increased risk for mental illness. This study has prompted health professionals to develop public education campaigns to help decrease the burden of illness.
It stands to reason that a person’s genetics and environment greatly influence their susceptibility to disease. People living in poverty are more likely to contract illnesses due to their inability to pay for basic necessities. Chronic diseases like diabetes and HIV are more prevalent among the poor population. However, these factors are not the sole influence on health; some diseases can also be spread through environmental factors.