The World Health Organization’s Definition of Health

As we live longer, our bodies tend to age, so does our definition of health. In the 1948 World Health Organization definition of health, the absence of disease was considered a sign of health. Today, Huber et al. suggest a more comprehensive definition of health that focuses on our capacity to manage stress, learn new skills, and cope with life’s challenges. This change in definition of what constitutes a healthy life is important.

The World Health Organization’s Constitution, enacted in 1948, recognises health as a fundamental right for every human being. “The enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is a fundamental human right,” the Constitution reads. Promoting health is as simple as promoting healthy activities and reducing unhealthy ones. In addition to advocating for healthier lifestyles, many nation states have also endorsed the concept of the right to a healthy life. These nations are obligated by law to protect and promote the rights of individuals to a healthy life.

The definition of health is an important topic that needs to be addressed. Ideally, the World Health Organisation’s constitution will define health as the ability to satisfy one’s own needs and to make decisions about the environment. Ultimately, the constitution must account for the different environments people live in. It must consider the environment in which a person lives. It is also crucial to note that a person’s health is a result of their individual choices and circumstances.