In 1948, the World Health Organization defined the concept of health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (WHO 2020). While this definition was widely accepted when it first became publicized, it has not evolved with the times and is now considered to be dated. The addition of the word “complete” in the 1948 WHO definition of health implies that those with chronic illnesses and/or disabilities are unable to be considered healthy (Van Druten et al. 2022). The main criticism of the WHO definition of health is that it no longer fits within the modern medical world. Today’s society is constantly evolving towards a more inclusive future through medical advancements; therefore the definition of health must be adapted according to this notion.
The Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion defines health as the ability “to identify and to realize aspirations, to satisfy needs, and to change or cope with the environment” (Government of Canada 2008). This definition is favored by many, as it encompasses the notion of adaptability. Huber proposes that “by successfully adapting to an illness, people are able to work or to participate in social activities and feel healthy despite limitations” (2011). Considering today’s ever-changing landscape of medical advancements, it is increasingly possible for those suffering from chronic illnesses to adapt their lifestyle, realise their goals, and cope with the environment of their condition.
The World Health Organization has not modified the definition despite proposals to make changes, which affects health policy (Huber 2011). Rather than creating policy that centers around a complete absence of illness and full recovery, a newly defined concept of health could re-orient the focus onto the capacity to cope with conditions (Huber 2011). These changes, which would focus on a more holistic conceptualization of health could lead to more successful outcomes and a better quality of life for many patients.
References
fcafotodigital. (2021). Healthy Eating and Blood Pressure Control [Image]. iStockPhoto. https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/healthy-eating-and-blood-pressure-control-gm1371124527-440530516
Government of Canada. (2008). What is health? Retrieved 4 October 2023 from https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/population-health/population-health-approach/what-is-health.html
Huber, M. (2011). Health: How Should We Define It? British Medical Journal, 343(7817): 235-237. https://www.jstor.org/stable/23051314
Van Druten, V., Bartels, E., Van de Mheen, D., De Vries, E., Kerckhoffs, A., & Nahar-van Venrooij, L. (2022). Concepts of health in different contexts: a scoping review. BMC Health Services Research, 22(389) https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-022-07702-2
World Health Organization. (2020). Basic Documents. Retrieved 5 October 2023 from https://apps.who.int/gb/bd/pdf_files/BD_49th-en.pdf#page=6
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