Health, as defined by the World Health Organization, is “an exchange of optimal health for optimum life.” A variety of other definitions have also been used over the years. They all essentially mean the same thing: that healthy living gives you the best quality of life possible. Of course, one can never get exactly what he or she wants in this world. Some people are simply born healthy while others have to work hard to maintain their health.

Public health and wellness encompass a variety of things. One example would be the overall well being of an entire country, a state, a neighborhood, or a population. Another would be the mental health and wellbeing of an individual, which could include his or her ability to make sound decisions, learn and live well, and physically to be able to function. Public health also includes aspects such as nutrition, physical activity, smoking prevention and control, and drug abuse.

This definition may seem broad, but when broken down to its most essential components, it becomes much more manageable. It has been stated that prevention is the best medicine. Knowing what steps to take to avoid problems and what actions to take to remedy them is crucial in reaching this goal. Health education, research, practice and policy are the elements that comprise a sound health system. Education is considered to be the most important aspect.

A good health policy would, first and foremost, define what is to be prevented and what is to be remedied. Preventive measures generally include keeping a body weight under control, exercising on a regular basis, avoiding smoking, consuming less alcoholic beverages and reducing the intake of non-flammable tobacco products. The next element in a preventive measure is to take care of existing conditions. Two elements that play a part in the treatment of diseases and preventing their occurrence are medical diagnosis and treatment.

In order for a health care system to reach its goal of providing the most comprehensive care possible, there must be a defined set of criteria defining healthy practices. When this process is understood by all involved, the possibility of achieving the defined goal of a healthy life can be achieved. This definition is then combined with a set of methods to assure this goal is achieved.

Prevention is better than cure, so it makes sense to make changes in both your lifestyle and your habits today to live a longer and healthier life. A healthy definition should guide all of us to take the necessary steps towards a healthy and happy lifestyle. We all want to lead a long and productive life. Living a long and productive life is not as easy as it sounds. It takes effort, discipline and cooperation among people and the entire medical care delivery system to achieve an effective and defined health system.