The WHO definition of health was a powerful call to action at a time when global life expectancy was just 48 years for men and 53 years for women. Infant mortality was rampant, and diseases like polio and diphtheria were the major causes of short life spans. Over the last century, the definition of health has changed radically, and the causes of death have decreased drastically as well. By the mid-1950s, heart disease, stroke, and cancer were the three leading causes of death, and today, these are just three of the many factors that determine how long a person can live.
The World Health Organization defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. It is a state of physical, mental, social, and financial balance that is achieved through encouraging healthful behaviors and reducing or avoiding unhealthy situations. Although some of these factors are directly related to the choice of an individual, others are the result of structural conditions. Regardless of the source, it is essential to define health. Once we understand what defines health, we can develop effective strategies to improve it.
One way to measure health is to measure its impact on the broader environment. In health, a healthy person does not only have an active life, but they are also able to engage in meaningful activities. Moreover, a healthy individual can take responsibility for their own well-being, which increases the likelihood of a long life. For many people, health is a matter of living longer. By defining health in terms of the broader environment, we can achieve a more equitable society.
Regardless of whether the individual is a man or a woman, there is an opportunity to improve their mental health through healthy behavior. An active lifestyle and physical fitness protect breathing and heart function. It can also improve muscular strength, flexibility, and body composition. In short, health can improve the quality of one’s life. Unfortunately, mental illness and drug use can impede the pursuit of good health. It is important to recognize that both conditions can affect the individual and the community.
To improve health in our communities, we must understand the causes of ill health and promote a healthy life for all. We must recognize that health is determined by where we live and by the values we hold. Economic conditions, cultural norms, and social circumstances all influence the quality of life. Changing these factors is critical to ensuring that the health of the whole community is improved. However, it is difficult to achieve a change in values alone. Changing these values requires the participation of all stakeholders.
What is health? Health is the ability of the human body to adapt to its surroundings. While it is not easy to make a person healthy, it is essential for the individual to maintain a good quality of life. The world is a complex place and it is important to understand the social determinants of health in order to improve it. The WHO defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. The Massachusetts State Health Assessment estimates that genes and health care make up only 15% of health. The remainder of health consists of social determinants of health.