Definition of Health
ஆரோக்கியத்தின் வரையறை
Most students mistake the absence of symptoms for health. That is a clinical error. Health is a dynamic state of homeostasis, not a static lack of pathology.
The idea
NCERT defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. It is not merely the absence of disease or physical fitness. Achieving this state increases productivity, economic prosperity, and longevity while significantly reducing infant and maternal mortality rates.
Why it matters
Biological systems require homeostasis and optimal functioning to ensure survival, reproduction, and efficient energy utilization.
NEET lens
NEET examiners frequently test the 'complete' definition. Remember: Health = Physical + Mental + Social. Do not fall for the trap that equates health only with physical fitness or absence of disease.
Clinical significance
When social or mental well-being collapses, the body manifests psychosomatic disorders. Chronic stress triggers the HPA axis, leading to hypertension and immunosuppression, proving that health is an integrated system, not just an anatomical one.
Introduction
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being — not simply the absence of disease or physical fitness.
Core concept
When people are healthy, they are more efficient at work, which increases productivity and brings economic prosperity; health also increases longevity and reduces infant and maternal mortality. Health is affected by genetic disorders (deficiencies a child is born with), infections, and lifestyle, including the food and water we take, the rest and exercise we give our bodies, and habits we have or lack. Balanced diet, personal hygiene and regular exercise are very important to maintain good health; yoga has been practised since time immemorial to achieve physical and mental health. Awareness about diseases and their effect on body functions, vaccination against infectious diseases, proper disposal of waste, control of vectors and maintenance of hygienic food and water resources are necessary for achieving good health.
Go deeper
Diseases can be broadly grouped into infectious (easily transmitted from one person to another, e.g. AIDS, typhoid) and non-infectious (e.g. cancer, which is a major cause of death).
From Class 10
Being healthy means more than not being sick — feeling well in body and mind and getting along with people around you.