Health has traditionally been defined as the absence of disease or infirmity. However, current research and funding streams encourage consideration of a wider range of targets.
A broad definition of health would not stop at efforts to remove diseases and diminish risk factors but could address how well individuals function within their environments.
What is health?
Traditionally, health is understood to be the absence of disease or impairment. This definition has significant implications for research, policy and practice.
But it neglects the ways that people perceive and experience their health. The fact that people can vary dramatically in their responses to disease, symptoms and diagnosis, and how they live with their illness means that the way we think about health needs to change.
We need to move away from seeing health as a state, defined by laboratory findings and the presence or absence of disease, towards a more dynamic concept of health, which recognises that we are constantly adapting to our environments, our bodies and the things we value in our lives. Health is about balancing our physical, emotional and social well-being to enable us to realise our aspirations, meet challenges, make choices and live longer, healthier lives. The WHO defines it as a state of well-being that enables individuals to function at their best in a range of situations.
How can I improve my health?
Healthy habits, like a nutritious diet, regular exercise and good sleep, can help improve your overall health. They can also decrease stress, boost energy and reduce your risk for disease.
It’s important to visit your doctor if you experience signs or symptoms of illness or pain. Visiting your doctor early can prevent or treat a health condition before it gets worse.
Set health goals for yourself and problem-solve to overcome roadblocks. For example, if you want to start walking more, plan to walk indoors at the mall on days when weather prevents you from going for a stroll. Use a technique called “tiny habits” (described by BJ Fogg in his book Tiny Habits) to make positive changes stick. Start with just one or two small habits, and as they become a part of your routine, add more.
What diseases can I prevent?
Chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancers, can take a huge toll on people’s health. But many of these illnesses are preventable. Talk to your doctor about taking steps to lower your risk.
Vaccines help keep infectious diseases such as measles, mumps, hepatitis A and B, polio, chicken pox, dyptheria, tetanus and whooping cough under control. Getting vaccines as recommended is especially important for young children and pregnant women who can pass immunity to their newborn babies.
You can also reduce your risk of illness by washing frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as countertops, doorknobs, phones and toys, with soap and water. Avoid eating ultra-processed foods and eat more vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Practice safe sex by using a condom for oral, anal and vaginal sex. Avoid bug bites, especially from ticks, by wearing long pants and shirts, tucking in loose ends of clothing and spraying on insect repellent when you go outside.
What can I do to improve my health?
There are many things you can do to improve your health, including eating a balanced diet, getting plenty of exercise, and staying at a healthy weight. Other health-related behaviors include getting enough sleep, managing stress, and having a supportive social network.
It’s also important to make regular visits to a doctor, especially if you notice any unusual symptoms. Ignoring symptoms can lead to serious illness, so it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Physical activity is key for your health, so try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day. You can start by walking around your neighborhood, and then try taking a yoga class or finding other activities that you enjoy. Stress management is another important aspect of your mental health, so practice relaxing activities, like meditation or deep breathing exercises. Lastly, make sure to spend time with friends and family to stay socially connected.