The Definition Of Public Health And Its Importance
In the United States, “health” refers to a condition that has consistent definition, beginning with the declaration made by the National Health Service in 1947. According to the World Health Organization, “health” is “a condition of full physical, mental and emotional well-being”. Different interpretations have been used over the years for different purposes. The dictionary definition is “the quality of being capable of following an ordered path with the assistance of others”. Health may also be viewed as a process, the object of an intention, or an end (e.g., health, wealth, happiness)
Health is important because it affects the quality of life, motivation, well-being, coping, and resilience. Health also contributes to prosperity and quality of life through increased productivity, reduced health-related costs, enhanced confidence, and improved life satisfaction. A strong, healthy physical environment provides a platform for well-being. It reduces stress and improves health through the promotion of good health. The physical environment contributes to overall well-being when people are free to pursue their own interests, are surrounded by people they can trust, and when appropriate technology is available to assist them in living healthy lives.
Some have argued that absence is the greatest form of health. Without good health, absence is the greatest form of poverty. Lack of absence leads to inactivity, increased illness, poor nutritional status, under-nutrition, and other major health problems. For example, physical inactivity is associated with major illnesses such as cancer and diabetes. Inactivity can also lead to disability and other life-threatening conditions, and to death.
An infirmity is any bodily dysfunction, sickness, or disease of the body. A healthy body is the primary means of preventing illness and maintaining good health. A healthy body has many aspects, and one of them is the ability to heal itself when it is affected by an injury or disease. Healing is achieved when the body returns to its normal state of health. When the body’s organs are functioning well, it is less likely to be affected by health problems.
This definition of healthful lifestyle is not limited to aging. It also encompasses the definition of healthy in the context of pregnancy, child birth, and the prevention of serious diseases such as cancer and diabetes. The absence of mental disorders is an important aspect of this definition. People who maintain a positive attitude, and a healthy lifestyle, have a better chance of avoiding the risk factors associated with major diseases.
Health defines life course development, because good health requires having a healthy life course. Healthy life course development usually requires changes in diet, exercise, and lifestyle. The definition of public health is the responsibility of all citizens; therefore, health needs are best achieved at the community level through community education, awareness, and interventions aimed at promoting healthy life.