Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a condition that “is neither ill nor healthy” and is a state of full physical, emotional and social well being. A number of definitions have also been used over the years for various purposes. In medicine, a person’s health is a state in which the person is neither sick nor well. On a universal scale, health is equivalent to well-being.
The absence of diseases or death caused by other diseases leaves a person with a good health status. Illness and death brought about by life threatening diseases are, on the contrary, a negative aspect to one’s well-being. Good health, on the contrary, implies absence of serious and life threatening diseases and death caused by other conditions such as accidents or other causes of inability to perform ordinary functions. This is one of the major concepts that is interrelated with the concept of absence.
The absence of diseases, other physical problems, and deaths caused by other causes do not imply the absence or poor health but implies the availability of services, support and resources necessary for maintenance of a good state of mind and body. The concept of “public health” is used to illustrate the relationship between a state of public health and the society in general. Public health refers to the overall well being of a population. It also entails education, prevention and the promotion of preventive measures. Health services refer to medical practices that are required for the general well being of the community. These include primary health care services, secondary health care services, and immunization services.
Health services and the lack of them are reflected in the ability to experience positive things in life. For instance, absence from physical activities can adversely affect a person’s capacity to cope up with his daily routines and responsibilities. Deprivation from the presence of people with whom one shares personal relationships can lead to negative mental health effects as well. Physical education and exercise classes for children can significantly improve their health and well-being.
The promotion of health is an important factor in the economic and social progress of a nation. Proper implementation of public health policies can help communities survive and thrive. Effective policies and programmes can help communities prevent disease, reduce the burden of illnesses, promote physical activity, improve nutrition and empower the individual with education about healthy lifestyle choices.
In the contemporary world, the importance of good health cannot be denied. Health issues like obesity, smoking, diabetes, osteoporosis, underweight, and cancer are prevalent in today’s society. There are many causes for these kinds of illnesses and diseases. Lack of mental well-being can cause emotional disorders that hinder an individual’s capability to take advantage of society’s opportunities and roles. To ensure the well-being of the entire population, all segments of society must work collectively for better mental health solutions. Through the implementation of effective public health programmes, there will be a significant impact on reducing the prevalence of physical illness and diseases.
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