The Determinants of Wellness
Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is a condition of “complete physical, emotional and social well being and not just the absence of illness and infirmity”. Various definitions have been employed over the years for various purposes. It has come to be regarded as a state of well being with its attendant qualities of being balanced, active, optimistic, socially acceptable, and responsive to care.
The primary aim of health is to ensure its proper maintenance through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and participation in recreational activities. Good health allows you to live a longer and more productive life. It is associated with many other characteristics, including:
Education on the factors that cause ill health and the control measures necessary for good health is a challenge for most people. Illness and disease have risen over the past 50 years in the developed world, especially in the United States. The major drivers of ill health are poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, use of hazardous drugs, occupational exposure to chemical substances, and other forms of occupational carcinogens. Illness and disease can be prevented or controlled by adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Prevention of death due to preventable causes, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and osteoporosis is seen as one of the major contributions to an individual’s well-being. Because of poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy environments, the population of the United States is aging and becoming more prone to disease. Public health education includes teaching kids about healthy nutrition, family planning and pregnancy, physical activity, and good personal hygiene, as well as the proper use of products that promote wellness.
Other possible determinants of health are age and type of physical activity. Healthy weight is another factor. Age and being active are common determinants of illness. A physically active person is at less risk for illness than an inactive person. Poor health habits including tobacco use, alcohol abuse, and inappropriate use of medical care also contribute to poor health. Societal risks include poverty, poor educational levels, and poor economic status.
The determinants of overall health also include age and level of physical activity. The elderly are at greater risk for disability and mortality than younger people. Physical inactivity and poor nutritional quality of life are associated with an increased probability of disability. Obesity and being overweight are risk factors for chronic illness and disease, such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Poor nutritional quality of life and excessive caloric intake contribute to an unhealthy body mass index.